Mr. Rooter(R) Plumbers Root for Small Business on Capitol Hill

By: Mr. Rooter | 1 Shares 96 Reads

October 16, 2008 // Franchising.com // Waco, Texas – While Mr. Rooter Plumbing may not have THE Joe the Plumber, there are many like him, including Bob the Plumber and several others who recently took their small business concerns straight to Capitol Hill.

"America is in a crucial time," said Bob Beall, who owns a Mr. Rooter Plumbing franchise in Pittsburgh and recently walked Capitol Hill with other Mr. Rooter franchisees. "There are several bills being lobbied everyday that have an impact on us and our Mr. Rooter businesses."

Discussing issues like health care reform and federal tax policy, several Mr. Rooter franchisees and corporate executives recently met with key policy makers from their respective states. This opportunity to meet with legislators was possible thanks to the International Franchise Association's 9th Franchise Appreciation Day.

"Walking on Capitol Hill and talking about what is important to small business reminds me that we can make a difference," said Mr. Rooter Corporation President Mary Kennedy Thompson. "It is always inspiring and amazing to be part of the American experience. I hope everyone takes time this year to vote and put a voice to their beliefs."

As for the needs of small businesses like Mr. Rooter, they were heard loud and clear on Capitol Hill.

"We reminded our legislators that franchising represents 21 million jobs across the U.S.," said Saunda Kitchen, a Mr. Rooter Plumbing franchisee in Santa Rosa, Calif. "They were astonished to hear that the premiums for medical insurance for our employees are equal to all of our other insurances combined, including auto, general liability, equipment and property."

While Kitchen volunteered to be a sounding board for one of her representatives if more information is needed, Beall took what he learned and passed it along to the entire Mr. Rooter system. He asked all Mr. Rooter Plumbing franchisees to join in on the lobbying effort.

About Mr. Rooter®:

Established in 1970, Mr. Rooter is the largest all-franchised, full-service plumbing and drain cleaning company in the world with approximately 300 franchises worldwide. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its "Franchise 500" and Franchise Times Top 200, Mr. Rooter franchisees provide services to both residential and commercial customers. Mr. Rooter began franchising in 1974 and is a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group, Inc. For more information or to find the location nearest you, please visit our Web site at www.mrrooter.com.

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