By Andy McDonald, SVP, Government Affairs, OAAA, and Mike Hershey, EVP, Government Affairs, OAAA.
OAAA hosted its 2026 National Conference of State Outdoor Advertising Associations from March 3rd through 4th in Washington, DC, bringing together state leaders, advocates, and industry experts for meaningful discussion and federal engagement. Sessions attended by representatives of 18 different state outdoor advertising associations (OAA’s) were held at conference facilities in the Navy Yard section of DC, where attendees were provided insights into current industry issues, opportunities to share best practices, as well as the chance to interact with members of Congress and staff at the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Much of this year’s dialogue centered on the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. With the current Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act set to expire on September 30, 2026, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee is already refining legislative language following input from transportation stakeholders. The industry’s position remains firm: no new restrictions on outdoor advertising and strong opposition to any expansion of federal outdoor advertising control regulation.
Attendees discussed the ongoing issue of illegal signs including OAAA’s “three buckets” framework for classifying illegal signs for ease of understanding – (1) unpermitted structures, (2) on-premise signs illegally displaying off-premise ads, and (3) wild postings / guerilla marketing – while examining statutory loopholes that may create enforcement challenges.
Sessions took a deep dive into operational and legal issues affecting the industry, as well as legislative initiatives involving state association advocacy. Other sessions included public service programs, including qualification standards, and how such programs can both support communities and strengthen association viability and visibility.
Beyond the sessions, attendees participated in a productive afternoon on Capitol Hill, urging congressional offices to oppose any amendments that would alter the outdoor advertising control program and to promote stronger FHWA–state DOT coordination. A meeting with FHWA officials at US DOT headquarters further opened the door for constructive dialogue on regulatory clarity and partnership.
From policy deep dives to collaborative strategy sessions, this year’s National Conference proved both timely and forward-looking. It highlighted the importance and need for out of home advertising companies to engage with their state associations and with OAAA, who are the primary drivers and defenders of the industry’s legislative and policy objectives at all levels of governmental interaction.
Published: March 13, 2026