Apprenticeship Tops Advocacy Efforts of ISSA

ROSEMONT, IL – Building the cleaning workforce of tomorrow by securing approval for the cleaning industry’s first-ever, registered apprenticeship program tops the list of achievements found in the ISSA’s Advocacy Impact Report for 2026.

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, ISSA, the Association for Cleaning & Facility Solutions, said its report is a reflection of what is possible when an industry comes together to shape the future.

For 250 years, Americans have advanced progress by making their voices heard. ISSA members are carrying that tradition forward by advocating for policies that strengthen businesses, protect public health, and elevate the cleaning and facility solutions industry.

ISSA Advocacy delivered meaningful results over the past year, including:

• Building the cleaning workforce of tomorrow by securing U.S. Department of Labor approval for the industry’s first-ever Registered Apprenticeship Program for Cleaning Technicians.
• Securing U.S. Senate passage of the WIPPES Act to help protect wastewater infrastructure from costly damage caused by non-flushable wipes.
• Advancing safer product policy through the introduction of federal legislation to authorize the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice Program.
• Defeating harmful state proposals like efforts to ban scented cleaning products in New Hampshire public buildings.
• Championing menstrual health by providing policymakers with state-by-state menstrual health report cards.
• Earning national and state-level recognition for our industry.

“Every victory highlighted in this report started with engaged members who refused to sit on the sidelines,” said ISSA Vice President of Government & Public Affairs John Nothdurft. “Whether it was protecting jobs, advancing science-based policies, strengthening our workforce, or elevating the industry’s voice in Washington and state capitals, our success was driven by the collective action of ISSA members.

“As our nation approaches its 250th birthday, we’re reminded that advocacy remains one of the most powerful ways to shape the future and we’re grateful to every contributor and Advocate for Clean who helps make that possible.”

ISSA said its advocacy effort continues to fight for:

• Tax policies that incentivize cleaner, healthier spaces;
• Workforce development and training investments;
• Streamlined and fully funded EPA functions;
• More accessible and healthier public spaces;
• Smart, science-based regulations and industry best practices;

The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the opportunities.

It’s free and easy to join Advocates for Clean, ISSA’s grassroots advocacy network. Advocates for Clean receive action alerts, policy updates, and opportunities to engage directly with lawmakers on issues affecting the industry.

To learn more, go to issa.com/advocacy.