Springfield Lobby Day is an important opportunity to meet face-to-face with your elected officials and discuss legislative issues that impact your business.

The IRA will host a dinner the evening of Tuesday, March 31 for attendees. The following morning, - Wednesday, April 1 - the IRA will meet with legislators from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to discuss issues issues important to the restaurant, hotel, and tourism industries.

Please complete the registration form today and plan on attending 2020 Springfield Lobby Day. It is important that we have a large delegation of IRA members to meet legislators and educate elected officials about the importance of our industry. This event is one of the most important things we do as an Association.

Everyone is responsible for their own travel plans and hotel accommodations. The IRA has reserved a room block at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre for Tuesday, March 31.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I arrive to and depart from Lobby Day?
Lobby Day officially starts Tuesday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m. with dinner, and finishes the following day, Wednesday, April 1 at 1:00 p.m. after our meetings with legislators.

Amtrak provides frequent service from the Chicagoland area to downtown Springfield.

Is there a room block at a hotel?
Yes, there is a room block reserved on the night before Lobby Day on Tuesday, March 31, at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre, located at 700 E Adams Street in Springfield. Rooms are available for $109/night. 

Click here to book a room in the IRA room block, or call (217) 789-1530 to make your reservation over the phone.The cut off date for the room block is Tuesday, March 10. 

Will I be talking to lawmakers face to face?
Yes. The IRA tries to schedule a meeting for every attendee with their legislators. You will also meet with key legislators for the industry. Your meetings will generally only last a few minutes.

Will I be given instructions and talking points?
Yes. All key issues are explained at the morning informational session and fact sheets and talking points are handed out. A "how to lobby” lesson is also provided.

Will I be escorted or alone?
Attendees are grouped according to their districts and are escorted by IRA staff.

What legislation will we be discussing?
We will be discussing bills important to the industry, including taxes, paid sick leave, tourism funding, and more. All key issues will be discussed at the morning informational session.

What should I wear?
Dress professionally to meet with legislators. A business suit or slacks/skirt and a jacket are appropriate. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

We look forward to seeing you in Springfield March 31 - April 1! If you have any questions or need more information, contact Matt Quinn at (312) 380-4122 or mquinn@illinoisrestaurants.org.