Legislative Committee Meeting
The CRA Legislative Committee gathered at J.Timothy’s Taverne for the first Legislative Committee meeting of 2026. The group discussed upcoming federal and state issues expected to arise throughout the year, as well as strategies for the session ahead.
Connecticut Legislative Session begins on February 4 through May 6. We will keep you updated with the latest information via these Advocacy in Action updates, and through the regularly updated Bill Tracker.
Members of CRA’s Legislative Committee will be attending the Restaurants Act Public Affairs Conference to represent Connecticut. The Conference is the restaurant industry’s largest grassroots advocacy event, bringing operators together to influence policy and protect the future of foodservice.
Restaurants Act Public Affairs Conference
🗓️ March 10-12, 2026
📍 Washington, D.C.
👉 More Information
If you are interested in being part of this year's conference, or serving on the Legislative Committee, please email us!
Please Complete: Advocacy Survey
The National Restaurant Association is collecting information to guide the industry’s advocacy efforts in the year ahead. Your input is critical as we address key issues impacting restaurants.
Your feedback will help ensure that the voice of the restaurant industry is heard on the issues that matter most. The survey is open until January 31.
Complete Survey
New DGA Guidelines Calls for Limits on Sugar
The FDA plans to encourage the food and beverage industry to reduce added sugar this year to align with a major priority of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement.
The new dietary guidelines calls for limits on sugar and prioritizes meat and dairy. Other 2026 agenda items largely build on previously announced priorities, including defining ultra-processed foods, accelerating approval of natural colors and updating how new chemicals are approved under the “Generally Recognized as Safe” designation.
Read More
Franchise Business Model
Last week, the House Small Business Committee held a hearing examining the franchise business model and its impact on small business growth.
Ahead of the hearing, the National Restaurant Association submitted a letter outlining the critical role franchising plays in the restaurant industry, offering opportunities and major pathways to entrepreneurship for first-time business owners, veterans, and immigrants.
The Association will continue working with the Committee to advance policies that protect franchising.
Read Letter
Webinar: New Tax Law Tactics to Drive Franchise Growth & Profitability
🗓️ Wednesday February 4
🕑 2PM
👉 Register Here
Changes in federal and state tax laws can be a game-changer for franchisees who know how to leverage them. This webinar from the National Restaurant Association will break down the new provisions, and share practical strategies to minimize tax liability, maximize deductions, and unlock capital for growth.
In this webinar you will:
- Understand how the new tax law impacts franchise businesses
- Learn how to capitalize on deductions and credits to boost profitability
- Get actionable steps to position your franchise for growth before year-end
Register Here
|
