On February 3, leaders from Associated Food Stores (AFS) and Bowman’s Market met with U.S. Representative Blake Moore (UT-01) to advocate for policies vital to the sustainability of local retailers, pharmacies, and communities. The meeting, held in Salt Lake City, underscored the power of grassroots engagement in shaping legislation that impacts Main Street businesses and everyday consumers. 

Moore, who represents northern Utah communities including Ogden, Layton, and Bountiful, listened intently as the AFS team, which included Randy Heath, Justin Atwater, Steve Miner, Chris Sheard, and Sarah Pettit. They highlighted urgent issues such as Robinson-Patman Act enforcement, SNAP protections in the Farm Bill, the Credit Card Competition Act, and pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) abuses. These topics directly affect American families and the ability of local businesses to compete fairly. 

Why These Issues Matter: 

  • Robinson-Patman Act: Enforcing this decades-old antitrust law is critical to preventing large retailers from leveraging unfair pricing advantages over smaller competitors, ensuring a level playing field for community grocers. 
  • SNAP Protections: Safeguarding nutrition assistance programs in the Farm Bill helps millions of families access healthy food while supporting retailers who serve them. 
  • PBM Reform: Pharmacy benefit managers often inflate drug costs and undercut local pharmacies. Unfair PBM practices threaten patients’ access to affordable medications. 
  • Swipe Fees: Credit card processing fees drain billions annually from retailers, with the second highest cost for our retailers next to labor. 

Moore, a father of four and Ogden resident with deep ties to Utah, expressed appreciation for the team’s insights. “It’s reassuring to know members of Congress understand the challenges we face and are willing to take action,” said Chris Sheard, pharmacy operations manager, reflecting on the productive dialogue around PBM reform. 

The Bigger Picture:
This meeting highlights the importance of advocacy and driving national change. When businesses and community leaders engage directly with policymakers, they turn abstract legislative debates into real-world solutions. Moore’s responsiveness—shaped by his district’s needs and his father’s legacy in public service—shows how grassroots input can bridge gaps between Capitol Hill and Main Street. 

As debates over the Farm Bill, healthcare reform, and antitrust enforcement heat up in Congress, the voices of retailers, pharmacists, and consumers remain essential. Partnerships like this one between AFS and Rep. Moore prove that progress begins when leaders listen—and act—on behalf of the communities they serve. 

AFS is grateful for leaders who prioritize fairness for Utah families and businesses.