The National Association of REALTORS® announced Wednesday that the 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings and Trade Expo traditionally held in Washington, D.C., will now be a virtual experience. In-person meetings have been canceled due to the latest restrictions aimed at stopping the spread of the coronavirus.

As the Centers for Disease Control have limited nonessential travel and gatherings of more than 10 people for the next eight weeks, NAR has also canceled all other in-person events through July 1. The association encourages members to hold meetings electronically instead.

NAR's announcement came amid other coronavirus-related news on Wednesday: The Senate passed emergency legislation to provide support to workers and families during the coronavirus pandemic. The bill now goes to President Donald Trump, who has said he will sign it into law. The bill expands paid sick leave and family medical leave for workers. Self-employed persons are also eligible for a refundable tax credit to cover sick and family leave.

The online RLMTE, which will take place May 11–16, will still feature familiar components, such as committee meetings, key sessions, and elections. There will also be an effort to find virtual solutions so state and local associations can still be represented at committee meetings.

Those who paid for the meetings, expo, pre-conference courses, or special events will automatically be fully refunded. No deposits for hotel reservations made through NAR have been processed, so they will automatically be canceled. Members must contact their airline to seek an airfare refund or credit.

NAR is actively seeking new ways to stay connected within the industry. More details will be announced soon regarding the virtual meetings. For questions, email NARLegislative@experient-inc.com or call 1-800-650-6893 (US/Canada)/1-847-996-5826 (outside US/Canada).

Source: "REALTORS® Legislative Meetings and Trade Expo Is Going Virtual" REALTOR® Magazine (March 18,2020)