Contact:
Casey McLean
casey@developersalliance.org
For Immediate Release: May 19, 2025
New York City App Developer Meets with Lawmakers in D.C.
Expect Founder Discussed Her App-Based Business’s Policy Priorities
WASHINGTON (May 19, 2025): Dara Cook, founder and CEO of New York-based Expect Fitness, Inc., recently met with staff from Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia M. Velázquez’s (D-N.Y.) office to discuss critical issues facing U.S.-based app developers. She explained how the current app ecosystem helps small developers like himself and voiced concerns about policy proposals that could fracture this critical ecosystem.
As Congress considers policies that would overregulate or dismantle app stores, Cook urged lawmakers to remember the value app stores provide developers. New research shows 92% of app businesses say app stores and the services they provide are important for their app’s success. Cook wants lawmakers to redirect their focus on passing a national data privacy law, which would help end the confusing patchwork of state privacy laws, give consumers peace of mind, and allow developers to innovate. Cook is not alone, as 84% say the app industry needs a single data privacy law.
“I enjoyed meeting with Rep. Velázquez’s office and sharing my experience running an app-based business in today’s digital economy,” said Cook, whose app provides OB/GYN-approved workouts for moms before, during, and after pregnancy. “I hope Congress continues these conversations with small developers and truly gains an understanding of the current app ecosystem that works so well.”
Cook was one of eight developers who came to Washington with the Developers Alliance, the leading advocate for developers worldwide. Developers came from across the country and shared their perspectives on the app ecosystem with federal lawmakers.
“Developers are driving forces of our economy who create jobs, innovate, and compete globally,” said Jake Ward, co-founder and board chair of the Developers Alliance. “It is so important for lawmakers to listen to what their constituents care about, and I commend each developer for coming to Washington and sharing their stories. Congress must understand small developers’ perspectives and create policies that help the country’s tech sector, not hurt it.”
The Developers Alliance advocates on behalf of developers, the companies they lead, and the industries that depend on them. We help policymakers and stakeholders understand the specific needs of the developer workforce and advocate for policies that responsibly advance the broader tech sector.
