James Cress advances equipment finance through proactive education, relationship-building and long-term legislative advocacy. During his tenure as chair of ELFA, Cress led sustained industry engagement that contributed to major policy advances, including securing permanent 100% bonus depreciation and advancing regulatory relief under Section 1071.

“Industry advocacy ensures that the people shaping laws, regulations and public policy understand the essential role equipment finance plays in helping businesses grow, invest and create jobs,” Cress emphasizes. “Effective advocacy protects that value, strengthens our collective voice and helps preserve an environment in which our customers and our industry can thrive.”

By uniting industry leaders around common goals, Cress continuously safeguards commercial lending and shapes its future.