The big idea 

AI-powered advocacy is reshaping how we protect our businesses and open doors for every buyer and seller. In May on Capitol Hill, I met with Rep. Jonathan Jackson to advocate for three game-changing wins: safeguarding independent contractor status, expanding affordable healthcare through Association Health Plans and locking in the 20% pass-through deduction under the Main Street Tax Certainty Act. Those aren’t just legislative talking points; they’re the bedrock of a resilient real estate career. 

Why this matters to your GCI 

• Eighty-eight percent of Realtors are self-employed. Independent contractor flexibility allows us to build generational wealth on our terms. Without it, the team splits, and the commission model crumbles. 

• Healthcare premiums keep rising. Association Health Plans can help reduce costs and enhance coverage for brokers and solo agents alike. 

• The 20% deduction saves a typical producing agent over $5,000 a year — money you can reinvest in marketing, tech or simply breathing room. ROI translation: That’s a fresh marketing funnel, a polished website or six months of paid leads — every single year. 

Housing supply: The other half of the equation 

Illinois buyers are facing an inventory gap that mirrors the national shortfall of 4.7 million units. The More Homes on the Market Act, Housing Supply Framework Act and Revitalizing Downtowns & Main Streets Act address the issue from three angles: unlocking long-held owner equity, spurring new construction and converting underutilized commercial stock into housing. More roofs equal more closings.  

The innovation advantage 

I opened the iOi (Innovation, Opportunity, Investments) track in D.C. with “AI-Powered Advocacy: Elevate Political Impact.” Here’s the playbook we shared — and how you can put it to work in Chicagoland today:

Lesson: Advocacy isn’t just letters and lobby days anymore. It’s data storytelling, micro-targeted outreach and video proof — delivered at machine speed. 

Progress report from the Hill 

During our conversation, Jackson asked clarifying questions on: 

1. Association Health Plans Act – clearing a path for competitive group coverage 
2. Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act – preserving 1099 status 
3. Main Street Tax Certainty Act – making the 20% deduction permanent 

With allies like Jackson, our message carries weight — yet it only sticks if every agent amplifies it back home. 

What you can do before your next showing 

1. Send one AI-drafted, personalized email to your representative in support of the bills above. (Tip: Feed ChatGPT the NAR one-pager plus your local stats.) 
2. Post a 30-second recap on Instagram Reels tagging #RealtorAdvocacy and your member of Congress. Social proof moves votes. 

Beyond policy: Building opportunity for all 

Advocacy also means fairness. The proposed Fair and Equal Housing Act adds sexual orientation and gender identity to the Fair Housing Act. Chicago’s strength lies in diversity; our laws must match our market.  

My personal why 

As a fifth-generation entrepreneur — and soon-to-be RPAC Hall of Famer — I’ve seen AI triple my productivity and free up hours for civic work. More income, more giving. That’s the cycle I want every real estate professional to experience. 

Innovation without advocacy is a half-built house. You can master AI lead gen, video funnels and LinkedIn networking, yet one unfavorable statute can shrink your profit overnight. Pair your tech edge with a policy voice, and you’ll future-proof your business while opening doors for the next wave of homeowners. 

Call to action: 

• Download NAR’s 2025 Legislative Priorities sheet. 

• Record your 60-second advocacy ask. 

• Tag @MarkiLemons on LinkedIn, and let’s raise our voices — together. 

See you on the front lines and at the closing table. 

Marki Lemons Ryhal is a licensed managing broker, Realtor and real estate coach.