The AVMA has hired a lobbying firm to assist the Governmental Relations Division in advancing the Association's legislative and regulatory agenda. Following an extensive search, the American Capitol Group was selected to represent the AVMA in Washington, D.C. The firm began its work for the Association Oct. 1.

According to its Web site, the ACG was formed by several Washington veterans who have worked on important national and regional issues for more than a decade. All members of the firm have experience as senior staff members of key congressional committees or leadership offices, and as senior counselors to companies and national organizations.

American Capitol Group represents a variety of clients, including large agriculture, energy, and pharmaceutical companies, as well as national and regional business associations, and state and local governments. The firm's other areas of expertise include communications, financial services, health care, homeland security, and local government issues.

The AVMA Executive Board earlier this year approved the proposal to retain the services of a lobbying firm to augment the efforts of the Governmental Relations Division (see JAVMA, May 15, 2007, page 1438). The AVMA's legislative and regulatory agenda comprises several priorities for the 110th Congress, including defeating bills banning horse slaughter for human consumption, obtaining funding for the National Veterinary Medical Service Act and the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank, and passing legislation strengthening the veterinary workforce.