Industry leaders from across the plastics value chain will convene in Washington, D.C., April 13-15 as the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), in conjunction with the American Chemistry Council (ACC), hosts its annual Spring Program and Fly-In.
The advocacy-focused event brings manufacturers directly to Capitol Hill to engage with lawmakers on policies that strengthen U.S. manufacturing, expand recycling infrastructure and support innovation across the economy.
Direct engagement with policymakers
The Spring Fly-In is designed to give companies a direct role in shaping federal policies that affect their operations, workforce and long-term investment decisions. Participants will meet with members of Congress and congressional staff to share real-world perspectives on how plastics manufacturing supports critical industries, drives modernization and advances sustainability.
“This Fly-In gives companies a direct seat at the table,” said Chris Rager, VP of government affairs at PLASTICS. “It’s an opportunity for manufacturers to speak directly with lawmakers about how their businesses create jobs, invest in American facilities and advance recycling through real-world innovation. That firsthand engagement leads to better policy outcomes.”
A clear policy focus
This year’s Fly-In centers on a straightforward principle: Effective recycling and manufacturing policy requires reliable data, regulatory certainty and practical solutions.
Discussions will focus on bipartisan solutions that strengthen U.S. recycling systems and manufacturing, alongside broader policy considerations that affect competitiveness and investment.
Recycling solutions: Fly-In policy priorities
- Recycling Technology Innovation Act (RTIA) – H.R. 6566
Clarifies federal regulatory treatment of advanced recycling technologies, providing certainty that supports investment, innovation and domestic recycling manufacturing.
- PACK Act – H.R. 6832
Establishes clear, consistent national standards for recyclable, compostable and reusable packaging claims.
- STEWARD Act – S. 351
Supports investment in recycling and waste reduction infrastructure through practical approaches that strengthen end markets.
- Recycling and Composting Accountability Act (RCAA) – H.R. 4109
Improves national data collection and transparency to support informed policy decisions and targeted infrastructure investment.
- Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act (RIAA) – H.R. 2145
Expands and modernizes recycling infrastructure to increase access, collection and processing capacity, particularly in underserved communities.
- Recycling Materials Attribution Act (RMAA) – TBD
Establishes clear definitions for recycling, recycled content and mass balance accounting, and directs the FTC to update the Green Guides — providing clarity for marketing claims while supporting innovation and investment in recycling technologies.
Manufacturing and trade competitiveness
In addition to recycling policy, discussions will address broader manufacturing priorities, including trade and tariff policy. Participants will emphasize the importance of predictable, thoughtful trade approaches that strengthen U.S. manufacturing while avoiding unintended cost impacts on supply chains and investment.
A unified industry voice
Participants represent every segment of the plastics value chain, bringing a unified, solutions-oriented voice to discussions on manufacturing, sustainability and economic growth. Meetings will also highlight the essential role plastics play in nearly every sector of the economy.
For PLASTICS members, the Spring Fly-In is a demonstration of leadership and engagement, advancing policies that recognize plastics as essential materials and position American manufacturing for long-term success.
Registration is open through March 13 at www.plasticsindustry.org/flyin/2026/
