On Thursday, Sept. 18, the GCSAA government affairs department hosted this year's third quarter briefing, covering a range of federal and state policy issues affecting golf course management.

Bob Helland, director of congressional and federal affairs, opened with an update on GCSAA’s lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C. He discussed the FIFRA 101 meetings he has recently participated in on Capitol Hill, recent developments regarding Waters of the United States (WOTUS), and his work on the Parity for Athletic Recreation (PAR) Act. He also addressed the potential for a government shutdown should Congress fail to pass appropriations bills.

Kelly Lonker, grassroots advocacy specialist, followed with updates on the Grassroots Ambassador program and introduced special guest Casey Anderson, assistant golf course superintendent at Park Nine Golf Course in Fort Collins, Colo. Anderson shared his experience hosting a site visit with congressional staffer Max Coker on behalf of Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO). He spoke about his outreach strategy, the topics discussed during the visit, the challenges he encountered and the steps he plans to take to continue building his relationship with the legislator's office.

Michael Lee, senior manager of government affairs, then welcomed Andrew Getty, superintendent at The Prairie Club in Valentine, Neb., who recently hosted a site visit with Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE). Getty reflected on how he became involved in the program, what was planned and accomplished during the senator’s visit, and his continued advocacy efforts. After the interview, Lee went on to provide an overview of state-level regulatory issues, including the California Water Plan, the Empire State Golf Alliance’s Economic and Environmental Impact Report, GCSAA’s comments regarding the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) regulations, and the potential for legislative action at the state level related to the Make America Healthy Again commission report. 

To close, Chava McKeel, director of government affairs, provided an overview of the government affairs department’s top ten priorities, which included ongoing regulatory issues as well as significant current events and emerging policy matters to watch heading into 2026.

You can access a recording of the webinar here.