This year, MAR’s Public Affairs & Advocacy team have been hard at work advocating for Realtors®’ interests at the local level. In partnership with the MAR Government Affairs Committee, we’re excited to highlight the major victories we accomplished this year.
Advocacy Recap:
Successfully advocated against a restrictive first right of refusal clause:
Since July, MAR has been recommending amendments to the Affordable Housing Preservation (AHP) ordinance to help advise city council members on how to better approach this issue. We met with council members on multiple occasions to negotiate reasonable solutions and advocate for first-time and first-generation homebuyers, buyers, sellers, and small/local investors. In October, the council voted to pass the ordinance.
However, after the passage, MAR successfully advocated our positions to Mayor Frey and the City Council to defeat the AHP ordinance. This was a significant win for Realtors®, the Association, and most importantly, for property owners who have the freedom to sell to whomever they choose.
Protected Small Business & Autonomy:
Additionally, MAR joined a coalition of businesses to successfully oppose the formation of a Minneapolis Labor Standards Board, which aimed to categorize Independent Contractors as employees, among other things. In partnership with other local businesses, we collectively advocated against this restrictive formation to preserve Independent Contractors’ status and autonomy.
So Why is this Important for you?
Advocacy is a fundamental pillar here at MAR. Your membership with the association means we’re always working to fight for your business. Our Advocacy team, alongside the MAR Government Affairs committee, has worked hard on your behalf to make sure your perspectives are heard and that Realtors® have an influential voice in the policymaking process.
I would personally like to thank the committee for their continued commitment to advocacy. We will continue representing your voice as we enter the new year.
If you have any questions, please email me my****@*********or.com
Myles Artis