This week in Washington, D.C., the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) conducted a series of meetings both internally and externally. Over a dozen members of the Women of PCA group traveled to D.C. for the second annual policy conference, sponsored by Altadis U.S.A. The purpose of this fly-in was to meet with lawmakers and to tell the story of specialty tobacco retailers to those on Capitol Hill.
Founder of the Women of PCA group and PCA Board Member Kathleen Kelly states, “It is critical to show a sense of force to complement the work of our professional staff and consultants in advocacy.”
For many of the participants, the lobby day represents a first time advocating for the premium cigar industry before Members of Congress and staff. Representative Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania, co-chair of the Congressional Cigar Caucus, kicked off the event. The Women of PCA event marks the end of a three-year hiatus from “walking the halls” of Congress in support of small business issues and pro-cigar legislation.
The PCA hosted its fall Board of Directors meeting, during which members also met with legislators. Concurrently with these advocacy initiatives, the PCA hosted its fall fundraiser and a new conference for state association leaders and professional lobbyists as they prepare for the 2026 state legislative cycle.
“This was a productive week for the association, and we made preparations for the New Year, where we will roll out new programs and initiatives across departments, from trade show to membership to government affairs,” notes PCA Board President Todd Naifeh.
The Premium Cigar Association Board of Directors meets monthly virtually and in-person twice annually, with one meeting taking place at the trade show and one typically in Washington, D.C. In 2026, PCA will be moving its board meeting to Oklahoma City to rotate based on the hometown of the Board President in even years.
“Even though our office is in Washington, D.C., the association is committed to being accessible across the country. In practical terms, this logistical change will save the association on costs moving the meeting outside of D.C. every other year and open the association to new markets for events and membership growth,” says PCA Chief Executive Officer Joshua Habursky.