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News releases, reports, statements and associated documents from national and international trade associations influencing the debate on federal policies.

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USPOULTRY Issues Statement Regarding Court's Stay on CERCLA/EPCRA Emissions Reporting Mandate

TUCKER, Ga., Aug. 21 -- The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association issued the following news release:

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Colombia Circuit

has issued a three month stay

,

until Nov. 14, 2017, before producers will need to start filing reports for emitting low level concentrations of ammonia from poultry houses and layer farms. The stay is a result of a motion from EPA requesting time that would allow the agency to develop guidance to assist farms with addressing the difficult task of measuring emissions of ammonia into the air from decomposing animal waste - a point recognized ... Show Full Article

Seniors at Risk From Financial Fraud

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 -- The North American Securities Administrators Association issued the following news release:

A new survey of state securities regulators by the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), released today on National Senior Citizens Day, shows that more can be done to protect seniors from financial fraud.

The results come from NASAA's recent Pulse Survey on senior financial fraud, a poll conducted internally of its members from July 24 to August 4. The findings offer a unique insight into the concerns and perspectives of the securities regulators who are ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 -- The North American Securities Administrators Association issued the following news release: A new survey of state securities regulators by the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), released today on National Senior Citizens Day, shows that more can be done to protect seniors from financial fraud. The results come from NASAA's recent Pulse Survey on senior financial fraud, a poll conducted internally of its members from July 24 to August 4. The findings offer a unique insight into the concerns and perspectives of the securities regulators who arethe investment industry's local cops on the beat.

"It is imperative that we detect and prevent senior financial fraud before criminals who prey on our most vulnerable citizens steal from and devastate them," said NASAA President and Minnesota Commissioner of Commerce Mike Rothman. "The clear message from our NASAA members, who are the securities regulators on the frontlines, is that we need everyone to step up and apply greater resources to stop financial fraud against seniors."

The responses suggest a need for increased focus by the securities industry on prevention and detection tools for senior financial exploitation. Top takeaways include:

* Most Cases Undetected Until Too Late: Regulators overwhelmingly (97 percent) feel that most cases of senior financial fraud go undetected rather than being discovered before they cause serious problems.

* Awareness is Increasing: Almost all (97 percent) regulators who responded would say there is greater awareness of senior investment fraud and exploitation now than there was a year ago.

* However, Fraud is Not Decreasing: Almost no respondents have seen a decrease in cases or complaints involving such fraud, and virtually three-in-ten (29 percent) say their agency has seen an increase in such cases.

* Industry Must Step Up: Three-fourths of respondents said they feel broker-dealers and investment advisers can do more to help prevent senior fraud.

* Important Role for Legislators: More than three-fourths of regulators who said their jurisdictions had laws like NASAA's Model Act to Protect Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation, which can help detect instances of senior financial fraud and make sure they are reported to authorities, were able to prevent senior financial exploitation by stopping the distribution of funds to fraudsters. (more)

These findings come in light of another recent survey NASAA released in June that provided insights into the industry perspective on the issues surrounding senior-related practices, procedures and protections from fraud.

The June survey looked at the practices of more than 60 broker-dealer firms throughout the United States. Among other findings this study found that more than half (54 percent) of the responding firms lacked a formal policy defining senior customers, and less than half (41 percent) had developed a form for customers to identify an emergency or trusted contact person.

Still, while the previous report shows that firms can do more, it also makes clear that they are taking the threat seriously. The broker-dealer firms included in that report alone reported nearly 2,300 cases concerning possible financial abuse or exploitation of seniors to outside authorities in 2015. The report also found that seniors were at higher risk of fraud, as most of the senior abuse cases reported (45 percent) involved customers in the 81-90 year age group. That finding was confirmed by NASAA's Pulse Survey, in which regulators overwhelmingly identified the "Silent Generation," (ages 70 and older) as the most vulnerable to financial fraud.

For additional information on NASAA initiatives to protect seniors and other vulnerable adults from financial exploitation, please visit NASAA's Serve Our Seniors website at serveourseniors.org.

[Category: Financial Services]

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and Families Against Mandatory Minimums Announce NACDL/FAMM State Clemency Project

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 -- The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers issued the following news release:

The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), with support from the Foundation for Criminal Justice (FCJ), announce today a major state-focused clemency initiative, the NACDL/FAMM State Clemency Project, a program designed to help to recruit, train, and provide resource support to pro bono attorneys who will assist state prisoners to submit petitions to have their sentences commuted. Outreach has already begun to several governors' ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 -- The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers issued the following news release: The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), with support from the Foundation for Criminal Justice (FCJ), announce today a major state-focused clemency initiative, the NACDL/FAMM State Clemency Project, a program designed to help to recruit, train, and provide resource support to pro bono attorneys who will assist state prisoners to submit petitions to have their sentences commuted. Outreach has already begun to several governors'offices across the nation. And Governor Cuomo of New York has just announced a partnership with the NACDL/FAMM State Clemency Project to develop the necessary processes and procedures to enable volunteer lawyers through the project to help prisoners seeking clemency pursuant to the Governor's initiative. The Project will provide logistical support for the governor's initiative, among other ways, by recruiting and training volunteer lawyers to help prisoners apply for clemency.

"We are committed to provide training and resource support to volunteer lawyers to facilitate a process through which applicants can have access to counsel who can expeditiously submit a petition that makes the case for a second chance," said NACDL Executive Director Norman L. Reimer. "We want the executive authority to see clearly that many offenders have learned from past mistakes and are ready to safely and productively return home."

"Those individuals who have worked hard to rehabilitate themselves and take responsibility for their mistakes deserve a chance to get out of the penalty box. Their families, communities, and state will be better off with their release," said FAMM President Kevin Ring. "We're excited to work with NACDL and Governor Cuomo on this important initiative and we look forward to partnering in other states."

"NACDL is proud to build on its experience as a Clemency Project 2014 founding partner in order to make this state-level clemency project a success," said NACDL President Rick Jones. "As a New York City defense attorney, I am especially pleased that Governor Cuomo is taking the lead in this effort. Our goal is to provide many hundreds of applicants with qualified counsel who will submit first-rate petitions. And our hope is that other Governors will launch their own programs, and we pledge to support them. It is long past time to recognize that people can change and that redemption is possible. This program recognizes that fundamental truth."

This project brings NACDL's and FAMM's collective experience as partners of the federal-level Clemency Project 2014 (CP 2014), to state-level clemency efforts. CP 2014, a partnership that also included the American Bar Association, American Civil Liberties Union and the Federal Public and Community Defenders, provided pro bono legal assistance to prisoners seeking to have their sentences commuted under specific criteria set by the White House.

Similarly the NACDL/FAMM State Clemency Project will focus on training lawyers to identify eligible prisoners based on criteria provided participating state executives. Project staff will work with state agencies to devise the most efficient way to connect applicants to volunteers, provide essential applicant information, and submit well-crafted petitions. The Project will have a state-based focus that will respond to the criteria for articulated by each governor or state clemency authority, and will rely heavily upon local attorneys, law firms and law clinics.

If you are interested in volunteering to take on one or more cases through the Project, please visit https://stateclemency.org or contact Project Manager Steven Logan at slogan@nacdl.org.

[Category: Law/Legal]

NECA Announces 2017 Project Excellence Award Winners

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 21 -- The National Electrical Contractors Association issued the following news release:

A diverse group of 17 outstanding projects have been named the first winners of the first NECA Project Excellence Awards program, created to recognize contractors who have done exceptional work around the country.

NECA created awards that honor companies for their commitment, professionalism, and ingenuity in delivering an electrical project across 11 different market sectors.

"NECA is thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase projects of such an impressive caliber in the first year ... Show Full Article

Gutierrez to Join Flagler County Chamber as President & CEO

PALM COAST, Fla., Aug. 21 -- The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce issued the following news release:

The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce's board of directors announced today that Jorge Gutierrez would be joining the organization as its new president and chief executive officer effective Wednesday, August 23. Rebecca DeLorenzo had served as the Chamber's president until February 2017, when she accepted a position with the American Red Cross.

According to Board Chairman Jimmy Millhollin of RE/Max Flagstaff, Gutierrez's experience in sales, finance, business strategy and manufacturing were ... Show Full Article PALM COAST, Fla., Aug. 21 -- The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce issued the following news release: The Flagler County Chamber of Commerce's board of directors announced today that Jorge Gutierrez would be joining the organization as its new president and chief executive officer effective Wednesday, August 23. Rebecca DeLorenzo had served as the Chamber's president until February 2017, when she accepted a position with the American Red Cross. According to Board Chairman Jimmy Millhollin of RE/Max Flagstaff, Gutierrez's experience in sales, finance, business strategy and manufacturing wereparticularly appealing to the search committee responsible for identifying and ultimately hiring a new president.

"Jorge has both the business and leadership experience to make a positive and immediate impact on this organization and its members," said Millhollin. "We are fortunate to have him joining our chamber and look forward to his energy and new ideas."

An Ormond Beach resident and native of Cuba, Mr. Gutierrez has more than 20 years of diversified experience in the areas of sales, manufacturing and financial diligence, and market/business strategy. Most recently, he was the Regional Vice President of Operations for Concorde Career Colleges, where he oversaw four colleges in the Allied Health Industry. Prior to joining Concorde, Gutierrez was president of WyoTech, where he was responsible for growing enrollments, student population, and exceeding student outcomes, and Universal Technical Institute, a publicly traded company providing advanced technical training in the automotive, light diesel and truck industry. His previous experience includes executive level positions for International Paper, Tyco Corporation, and Vanity Fair Corporation outside of the United States.

"It has certainly been an exciting journey during the entire selection process," said Gutierrez. "I had the pleasure of meeting many of the County's leaders and was impressed with their level of professionalism and passion for the community. I am thrilled the selection committee chose me to be the Chamber's next CEO/President. I look forward to working with the Board of Directors and the Chamber staff in fulfilling the organization's mission/vision. We have many opportunities and challenges facing Flagler County, and the Flagler County Chamber will be a valuable partner in helping and supporting local businesses."

Gutierrez earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Northeastern University, a Master in Applied Management and Industry from Lesley University, and a Master in Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from J.L Kellogg School of Management.

An active member of the Chapel in Ormond Beach, he is also a member of Miami CEO Club, and is Lean Six Sigma Black and Green Belt Certified. Jorge has been happily married to Marisa Gutierrez for 16 years, and has three children.

[Category: Business]

Financial Planning Association Submits Comment Letter on CFP Board's Commission on Standards Draft Revised Standards of Professional Conduct

DENVER, Aug. 21 -- The Financial Planning Association issued the following news release:

The Financial Planning Association(R) (FPA(R)), the largest membership association for Certified Financial Planner(TM) (CFP(R)) professionals in the United States, submitted for consideration a comment letter on the Draft Revised Standards of Professional Conduct by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board).

"FPA acknowledges the time and attention CFP Board and the Commission on Standards put into revising the Standards and traveling to multiple cities to obtain feedback from practitioners. ... Show Full Article DENVER, Aug. 21 -- The Financial Planning Association issued the following news release: The Financial Planning Association(R) (FPA(R)), the largest membership association for Certified Financial Planner(TM) (CFP(R)) professionals in the United States, submitted for consideration a comment letter on the Draft Revised Standards of Professional Conduct by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board). "FPA acknowledges the time and attention CFP Board and the Commission on Standards put into revising the Standards and traveling to multiple cities to obtain feedback from practitioners.Also, FPA applauds those volunteer practitioners who selflessly gave their time and energy to this important work. It was a momentous undertaking, but one that will help set financial planning on a course to be recognized as a true profession," FPA said in their letter, adding: "As it relates to FPA being the voice of the CFP(R) professional, just as the Commission on Standards took their role seriously in the formation of these proposed Standards, FPA took its role seriously in ensuring the voice of the CFP(R) practitioner community was heard on these proposed changes."

Since the proposed standards became public on June 20th, the association engaged the FPA Member Advocacy Council (MAC), which is the official mechanism within FPA that is gathering feedback from members on the activities and programs of regulatory and certifying agencies, to collect the input of CFP(R) professional members. Based on the feedback collected, FPA pointed to the clarity CFP(R) professionals are seeking, stating:

"After carefully reviewing the feedback provided by CFP(R) professional members of FPA, from both before and after the additional resources became available, it's clear that CFP(R) professionals require more clarity. While we asked our members for their opinions on the proposed Standards, many were unable to do so because they remain unsure of what is being proposed, what the changes will mean to them as practitioners, and how the proposed Standards will be implemented and enforced."

To help CFP Board address the confusion that exists, FPA offered several questions that have been voiced by CFP(R) professional members and recommends CFP Board alter its schedule to ensure the questions and concerns of CFP(R) professionals are heard. The comment letter outlines the following recommended changes to the process:

* Develop the next layer of explanation and clarification for CFP(R) professionals to understand how they will need to alter their practices to stay in compliance, which would include expanded definitions, concrete examples and legally substantiated criteria.

* Engage in additional educational activities, including virtual events and the availability of charts, diagrams and scenario-based case studies that will help CFP(R) professionals better understand the application of the proposed Standards.

* Add another comment period after more detail is developed and disseminated to allay the concerns of practitioners who want to comply as soon as the Standards are adopted and prior to implementation.

FPA's comment letter concludes: "A strong foundation has been laid by CFP Board and the Commission on Standards to revise the Standards of Professional Conduct, but more must be done. FPA believes that CFP Board's effort will be rewarded with another level of patience, work, and clarity."

FPA's full comment letter can be accessed HERE (https://www.onefpa.org/about/Press-Room/Documents/FPA_CommentLetter_CFPStandards.pdf?_ga=2.34795873.1537261843.1503320207-2008341371.1496244011).

[Category: Financial Services]

AMCP Submits Comments to CMS on the CY 2018 Updates to the Quality Payment Program

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 21 -- The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy issued the text of the following letter:

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Department of Health and Human Services

Attention: CMS-5522-P

P.O. Box 8013

Baltimore, MD 21244-8013

Re: Medicare Program: CY 2018 Updates to the Quality Payment Program (CMS 5522-P)

Dear Sir or Madam,

The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy thanks the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for the opportunity to comment on the Proposed Rule, Medicare Program; CY 2018 Updates to the Quality Payment Program (the Proposed Rule).

AMCP ... Show Full Article

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