IFA SPOTLIGHT: Jay Perron

By CHRIS POWILLS With discussions about politics heating up as Election Day near, many issues surrounding the election are of great importance to small businesses and franchising. The International Franchise Association (IFA) has been on the forefront of these issues to ensure that franchising’s interests are protected and supported by the next president. Jay Perron, the Vice President of Government Relations & Public Policy for the IFA, is a key member of the IFA’s staff. We sat down with Mr. Perron to learn more about his involvement with the IFA and the upcoming election. 1851: What did you do prior to joining the IFA? Jay Perron (JP): Before joining the IFA, I worked for IBM as their lead Republican Lobbyist and prior to that I was Political Director for Majority Whip, and now Senator, Roy Blunt from Missouri. 1851: What is your role at the IFA? JP: I am the Vice President of Government Relations & Public Policy. In that role, I work on issues important to the franchise industry in front of the U.S. Congress and the U.S. Presidential Administration. It is my job to teach those in elected office why franchising is important and the significant role franchising plays in the economy--whether it is the effects of President Obama’s healthcare law or explaining the need for comprehensive tax reform. 1851: What are the most pressing political issues when it comes to helping the franchising industry in this election? JP: The most pressing issue facing all industries, including the franchise industry, is the impending “Fiscal Cliff.” The cliff is a number of tax provisions that will expire on December 31 which will cost employers and employees significant income, either through the loss of tax deductions used to purchase equipment or through an increase of individual tax rates. The outcome of not coming up with a solution to the cliff could be a huge drag on the economy and potentially put us back into a recession. 1851: How can franchise owners get involved with the issues in their local communities? JP: First and foremost, be active. Invite your local elected officials to your franchise business. Explain to them how the business runs and what franchising means. You would be surprised how many officials have no idea how the franchise model works. Most elected officials want to get a chance to meet with business owners, their employees and their customers--you will be doing them a favor so don’t be shy about asking. Finally, if you don’t participate in the political process, you have no right to complain if you are not satisfied with the outcome. So go out and vote!