The U.S Senate has cut its August recess in half, delaying its summer break until the third week in August. The recess is typically a month-long official break in the annual congressional calendar. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell pushed back the start to give the Senate more time to work on reform of the Affordable Care Act, and tackle the National Defense Authorization Act and other issues.

While the Senate has postponed its recess, the House of Representatives at present intends to keep to its existing schedule, going on recess on July 28. However, McConnell has expressed his intention to hold a vote on the healthcare bill next week. If it passes, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, who controls the House floor schedule, has told representatives they would return to session and hold a vote on the bill.

Even with the shortened recess period, PPAI is reminding members of this upcoming opportunity to meet with legislators and their staffs to discuss the economic impact of the industry, as well as the effects that pending policies could have on it. These meetings can take place in a variety of ways, including in-person visits, attendance at various town hall events, and inviting legislators on a tour of work facilities.

For information on your members of Congress and instructions on how to contact them for a meeting, PPAI’s August Recess Advocacy page offers all the tools necessary to plan and execute meetings or work site tours.