2026 Washington, DC Fly-in Wrap-up

ATMIA members and staff were in Washington, DC last month for our 7^th annual Fly-in. Without a doubt, it was the most productive of all. Splitting up into two groups provided an opportunity to meet with a total of 14 Congressional offices, for a very full day on Capitol Hill.

The event typically begins with a casual gathering the day before our appointments. This provides all with an opportunity to get to know each other better. Many have never met everyone in the group.  Our day on The Hill began a little differently this year, as Troutman Strategies hosted an early breakfast meeting to discuss the day’s itinerary, issues that we would be addressing, logistics, and questions from our participants.

Our primary focus during the Fly-in and throughout this year is helping to pass the Safe Access to Cash Act (S. 3798/H.R. 1631). The Bank Robbery Act, 18 U.S. Code § 2113, was passed in 1937 – way before the 1967 invention of the ATM. Although it has been amended 17 times, none of those amendments have acknowledged the changes in cash handling and bank crime brought about by the ATM. The Safe Access to Cash Act is not new legislation, but rather an amendment to the Bank Robbery Act (finally) that inserts new language which extends coverage to all ATMs. Committing an ATM crime would carry federal penalties in every state – and hopefully serve to reduce the growing crime rate.

ATMIA also engaged lawmakers on the Financial Integrity and Regulation Management (FIRM) Act (H.R. 2702/S. 875) and the Payment Choice Act, reinforcing the need to protect consumer access, preserve financial inclusivity, and ensure individuals and businesses can continue to choose how they pay and receive funds.

This year’s participants, as well as those in past years, represented a broad segment of ATMIA membership. This includes ATM manufacturers, cash services, banks, Independent ATM operators, card services, ATM networks, managed services, security, and more. Planning for next year’s event is not that for off in the future – and it is never too soon in express your interest in participating.

Once again, we would like to thank our Fly-in sponsors, Fiserv (Wayne Malone) and ATM UP (Sal Salpietro) for their support and helping to make this event possible.

Best regards to all.

David