Policy Activities

HPBA is constantly promoting the hearth, patio, and barbecue industries through a variety of policy activities at the federal, state, and local levels. Whether through the legislative, regulatory, or codes and standards process, we work diligently to be a voice for our members. Below you will find some of our major policy activities that we are currently engaged in. Please contact the Government Affairs Department if you have any questions.

Industry Advocacy Initiatives

HPBA champions the industry's interests through lobbying on Capitol Hill, establishing reasonable technical standards, preventing restrictive regulation and policy, facilitating community-based programs, and leading grassroots member efforts. Each of HPBA's government affairs efforts involves working closely with various key stakeholders to make each initiative a success, whether it be the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or Department of Energy, state governments, or other nonprofits with common interests.

Consumer Education Initiatives

HPBA works to elevate the industry's profile through media relations and public education campaigns. Grilling and smoking can happen anytime or anywhere. HPBA has campaigns to encourage consumers to barbecue in the winter and for breakfast, and to create the best outdoor living space for them. For the hearth industry, there are annual efforts that kick off in October, National Fireplace Month, which extend through the entire fireplace, stove, and heater season.

Business Growth Initiatives

HPBA facilitates business growth for its members not only on the HPBExpo show floor, but by providing insider knowledge through market research and elevating the industry’s profile to the public. Members get first access to industry research, analysis and insights, and can participate promotions that reach media and consumers throughout North America.

Initiatives

HPBA works for its members by advocating for the industry, educating consumers on the value of their products, and providing programming to help grow businesses. Select from the three targeted filters above, based your interest.

Energy Conservation

The U.S. Department of Energy had been considering a regulatory action for pilot lights intended to conserve energy for all heating and decorative gas appliances. At the same time, HPBA has been advancing a revision to the standards for vented gas fireplaces, stoves, and inserts that would achieve these same goals while considering the unique attributes, functions, and technical considerations of each appliance category. 

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Consumers may not realize how older woodstoves and wood heaters can impact air quality. Likewise, constituents could be impeding policymakers’ efforts without even knowing it. HPBA, with the help of its regional affiliates, helps policymakers facilitate voluntary programs initiated at the local, state, or regional level that provides eligible communities incentives to positively impact air quality throughout North America.  

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Biomass Stove Tax Credit

Tax credits are powerful incentives for potentially hesitant consumers to invest in new biomass-fueled freestanding stoves and energy conservation technology. For nearly a decade, HPBA has worked in Washington, D.C. to maintain a tax credit for purchasers of new biomass stoves so that communities and individuals can reap the financial and environmental benefits that newer, more efficient technology provides.

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Occupational Licensing