Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
TowBoatUS Steinhatchee Under New Ownership, Continuing Trusted On-Water Assistance Along Florida's Gulf Coast
SPRINGFIELD, Virginia, May 15 -- Boat Owners Association of the U.S. issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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TowBoatUS Steinhatchee Under New Ownership, Continuing Trusted On-Water Assistance Along Florida's Gulf Coast
New owner-operator Carson Mullen steps in to ensure dependable service for local boaters from Cedar Key to the Econfina River
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TowBoatUS, North America's largest network of towing ports, announced today that U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain Carson Mullen has taken the helm of TowBoatUS Steinhatchee.
With more than 152,000 BoatUS members across Florida, access
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SPRINGFIELD, Virginia, May 15 -- Boat Owners Association of the U.S. issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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TowBoatUS Steinhatchee Under New Ownership, Continuing Trusted On-Water Assistance Along Florida's Gulf Coast
New owner-operator Carson Mullen steps in to ensure dependable service for local boaters from Cedar Key to the Econfina River
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TowBoatUS, North America's largest network of towing ports, announced today that U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain Carson Mullen has taken the helm of TowBoatUS Steinhatchee.
With more than 152,000 BoatUS members across Florida, accessto dependable on-water assistance remains an important resource for the state's boating community. TowBoatUS Steinhatchee serves Florida's Big Bend coastline from Cedar Key to the Econfina River, a service area extending 25 miles offshore and known for its remote access points.
Mullen brings several years of hands-on experience with TowBoatUS, having served as a captain in multiple locations before purchasing the Steinhatchee port. With peak boating season underway along Florida's Gulf Coast, this transition ensures continuity of service for the region's tight-knit coastal boating community while positioning the port for future growth.
A lifelong boater originally from Lake Wylie, South Carolina, Mullen grew up on the water in a family passionate about boating and water sports. After being introduced to the process of becoming a licensed captain, he quickly acted on the opportunity to build a career, eventually serving as a captain at TowBoatUS Lake Wylie before relocating to Southwest Florida.
"Boating has always been a part of my life, and being able to turn that into a career and a business is incredibly rewarding," said Mullen, owner and operator of TowBoatUS Steinhatchee. "This is a small, close-knit boating community, and my goal is to build on the strong foundation already here while continuing to provide dependable, professional service. When Gulf Coast boaters need help, I want them to know they can count on me to get them home safely."
TowBoatUS Steinhatchee is based at Sunset Place Marina, located at the mouth of the Steinhatchee River, where it operates a 25-foot Boston Whaler Frontier response vessel. Operated solely by Mullen, the service provides towing, fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, and assistance for boats that run aground, serving as a critical first call for recreational boaters when unexpected issues arise on the water.
Much like an auto club for recreational boat owners, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) offers on-water towing memberships for $215/year for saltwater. In addition to a BoatUS Towing Membership, members also receive more than 25 valuable BoatUS benefits including a subscription to award-winning BoatUS Magazine, free DSC-VHF radio registration and more.
To request on-water assistance, boaters can call the BoatUS toll-free 24/7 Dispatch Center at 800-391-4869, download the free BoatUS App, which connects boaters to the closest local towing captain, call TowBoatUS Steinhatchee directly at (352) 550-3009, or hail on VHF radio Ch. 16.
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About TowBoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation's leading advocacy, services and safety group for recreational boaters. We provide more than 740,000 members with a wide array of helpful services, including 24-hour on-water towing that gets boaters safely home when their boat won't, as well as jump-starts, fuel delivery, and soft ungroundings. The TowBoatUS towing fleet is North America's largest network of towing ports with more than 330 locations and over 630 red towboats, responding to more than 110,000 requests for assistance each year. To learn more about becoming a BoatUS member, visit BoatUS.com/Towing and to find a TowBoatUS location closest to you, visit BoatUS.com/ServiceLocator.
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Original text here: https://www.boatus.com/news-room/release/towboatus-steinhatchee-under-new-ownership-co
[Category: Travel]
House Passage of Year-Round E15 Huge Step Forward for Farmers and Consumers
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, May 15 -- The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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House Passage of Year-Round E15 Huge Step Forward for Farmers and Consumers
Focus Now Shifts to U.S. Senate, the Battle for Year-Round E15 will Continue
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Today, the U.S. House of Representatives, by a vote of 218 to 203, passed legislation removing an outdated and unjustified regulatory restriction on E15. The fix would allow E15 to be easily sold year-round throughout the country. A top priority for farmers and retailers, E15 will provide lower cost options for motorists
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WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, May 15 -- The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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House Passage of Year-Round E15 Huge Step Forward for Farmers and Consumers
Focus Now Shifts to U.S. Senate, the Battle for Year-Round E15 will Continue
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Today, the U.S. House of Representatives, by a vote of 218 to 203, passed legislation removing an outdated and unjustified regulatory restriction on E15. The fix would allow E15 to be easily sold year-round throughout the country. A top priority for farmers and retailers, E15 will provide lower cost options for motoristswhile providing a much-needed market for U.S. farmers.
"Today's House passage of year-round E15 is a victory 15 years in the making," said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. "IRFA cannot thank the Iowa delegation enough for standing strong and united to get us to this point. This was a long, hard fight, and the Iowa delegation was in the lead with other Midwestern supporters throughout. Now the fight goes to the Senate. To the naysayers that claim Senate E15 approval is impossible, I'll simply note that's the same thing you said about House passage just days ago. Confuse Midwest 'nice' with a lack of fortitude at your own peril."
Rep. Randy Feenstra co-chaired the House E15 Council that crafted the final E15 package. Reps. Ashley Hinson, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and Zach Nunn refused to bow to pressure to abandon E15 or to pair it with anti-farmer provisions.
"If the last decade has taught us anything, it's that the path toward nationwide E15 is never straight or easy," added Shaw. "We are so proud of our House delegation for never giving up and finding a path forward. We are counting on our champions in the Senate to follow suit to get this legislation on the President's desk. Now is the time to unleash E15 to reduce gas prices while boosting farmer income and enhancing U.S. energy security."
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The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association represents the state's liquid renewable fuels industry and works to foster its growth. Iowa is the nation's leader in renewable fuels production with 42 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 5 billion gallons annually - including 34 million gallons of annual cellulosic ethanol production capacity - and 8 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 408 million gallons annually. For more information, visit the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association website at: www.IowaRFA.org.
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Original text here: https://iowarfa.org/2026/05/house-passage-of-year-round-e15-huge-step-forward-for-farmers-and-consumers/
[Category: Energy]
Banking Trades Statement on Senate Banking Committee Vote to Advance Clarity Act
WASHINGTON, May 15 [Category: Financial Services] -- The Bank Policy Institute issued the following news release:
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Banking Trades Statement on Senate Banking Committee Vote to Advance Clarity Act
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Following today's Senate Banking Committee vote to advance the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, the American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum, Independent Community Bankers of America and National Bankers Association issued the following joint statement:
"Today's Senate Banking Committee vote on the Clarity Act marks an important
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 15 [Category: Financial Services] -- The Bank Policy Institute issued the following news release:
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Banking Trades Statement on Senate Banking Committee Vote to Advance Clarity Act
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Following today's Senate Banking Committee vote to advance the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, the American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum, Independent Community Bankers of America and National Bankers Association issued the following joint statement:
"Today's Senate Banking Committee vote on the Clarity Act marks an importantstep in establishing a regulatory framework around digital assets, a goal the banking industry supports. We continue to believe that these goals can be achieved while also protecting Main Street's access to community lending, and thanks to banker engagement and the work of senators on both sides of the aisle, especially Senators Tillis and Alsobrooks, the bill that cleared the committee includes several significant improvements over an earlier version.
"The banking industry continues to believe that the Clarity Act should be strengthened further by tightening the prohibition on interest-like rewards for holding stablecoin while also allowing certain payment stablecoin transactions and activities to generate rewards. Without the necessary guardrails, stablecoin offerings are expected to draw away bank deposits and threaten local lending and economic activity across the country. In that spirit, we will continue to work with senators in good faith to address this issue and improve the bill and its chances on the Senate floor."
About Bank Policy Institute
The Bank Policy Institute is a nonpartisan public policy, research and advocacy group that represents universal banks, regional banks and the major foreign banks doing business in the United States. The Institute produces academic research and analysis on regulatory and monetary policy topics, analyzes and comments on proposed regulations, and represents the financial services industry with respect to cybersecurity, fraud and other information security issues.
About the American Bankers Association
The American Bankers Association is the voice of the nation's $25.1 trillion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional and large banks that together employ more than 2 million people, safeguard $19.7 trillion in deposits and extend $13.2 trillion in loans.
About Consumer Bankers Association
The Consumer Bankers Association represents America's leading retail banks. We promote policies to create a stronger industry and economy. Established in 1919, CBA's corporate member institutions account for 1.7 million jobs in America, extend roughly $4 trillion in consumer loans and provide $275 billion in small business loans annually. Follow us on X @consumerbankers.
About Financial Services Forum
The Financial Services Forum is an economic policy and advocacy organization whose members are the eight largest and most diversified financial institutions headquartered in the United States. Forum member institutions are a leading source of lending and investment in the United States and serve millions of consumers, businesses, investors, and communities throughout the country. The Forum promotes policies that support savings and investment, financial inclusion, deep and liquid capital markets, a competitive global marketplace, and a sound financial system.
About the Independent Community Bankers of America
The Independent Community Bankers of America(r) has one mission: to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish. We power the potential of the nation's community banks through effective advocacy, education, and innovation. As local and trusted sources of credit, America's community banks leverage their relationship-based business model and innovative offerings to channel deposits into the neighborhoods they serve, creating jobs, fostering economic prosperity, and fueling their customers' financial goals and dreams. For more information, visit ICBA's website at icba.org
About National Bankers Association
Founded in 1927, the National Bankers Association (NBA) is the premier trade association representing the nation's mission-driven banks. NBA's mission is to strengthen mission-driven banks through advocacy, research, partnerships, and innovation, ensuring that financial services are accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all. For more information visit nationalbankers.org
Media Contact
Sam Fabens
Bank Policy Institute
sam.fabens@bpi.com
Sarah Grano
American Bankers Association
sgrano@aba.com
Weston Loyd
Consumer Bankers Association
wloyd@consumerbankers.com
Laura Peavey
Financial Services Forum
lpeavey@fsforum.com
Nicole Swann
Independent Community Bankers of America
nicole.swann@icba.org
Molly Moran
National Bankers Association
mmoran@nationalbankers.org
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Original text here: https://bpi.com/banking-trades-statement-on-senate-banking-committee-vote-to-advance-clarity-act/
AXPC Applauds Bipartisan Reforms to Deliver Certainty for American Natural Gas Producers, LNG Exports
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The American Exploration and Production Council issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AXPC Applauds Bipartisan Reforms to Deliver Certainty for American Natural Gas Producers, LNG Exports
The American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) today endorsed the LNG Export Security Act, introduced by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and John Fetterman (D-PA), which would codify a clear definition of "public interest" in the Natural Gas Act and prevent future administrations from exploiting statutory ambiguity to arbitrarily halt American LNG exports.
Anne
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WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The American Exploration and Production Council issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AXPC Applauds Bipartisan Reforms to Deliver Certainty for American Natural Gas Producers, LNG Exports
The American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) today endorsed the LNG Export Security Act, introduced by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and John Fetterman (D-PA), which would codify a clear definition of "public interest" in the Natural Gas Act and prevent future administrations from exploiting statutory ambiguity to arbitrarily halt American LNG exports.
AnneBradbury, AXPC CEO, said:
"The United States is the world's leading LNG exporter, and that position depends on producers being able to plan, invest, and operate without fear of arbitrary government interference. The LNG Export Security Act closes the loophole the Biden administration exploited to halt certain LNG export approvals, ensuring that future permitting decisions are grounded in objective criteria."
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Original text here: https://axpc.org/education-resource/axpc-applauds-bipartisan-reforms-to-deliver-certainty-for-american-natural-gas-producers-lng-exports/
[Category: Energy]
ASA Statement on Ongoing U.S. China Meeting
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, May 15 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following statement on May 14, 2026;
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ASA Statement on Ongoing U.S. China Meeting
The American Soybean Association (ASA) appreciates President Trump's ongoing discussions with President Xi. Strong and reliable trade relationships are critical to the continued success of America's soybean growers, and China remains one of the most important export markets for U.S. soybeans.
"ASA appreciates the ongoing dialogue between the United States and China and hopes to see additional soybean purchases this marketing year,
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ST. LOUIS, Missouri, May 15 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following statement on May 14, 2026;
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ASA Statement on Ongoing U.S. China Meeting
The American Soybean Association (ASA) appreciates President Trump's ongoing discussions with President Xi. Strong and reliable trade relationships are critical to the continued success of America's soybean growers, and China remains one of the most important export markets for U.S. soybeans.
"ASA appreciates the ongoing dialogue between the United States and China and hopes to see additional soybean purchases this marketing year,as well as continued progress toward fulfilling future purchase commitments," said Scott Metzger, ASA President and Ohio farmer. "As U.S. soybean farmers plant our 2026 crop, we are looking forward to a successful harvest to fulfill China's purchase commitments. Greater certainty and consistency in the marketplace help provide farmers with the confidence they need as they make decisions for the year ahead."
At the previous trade summit between the two nations, China committed to purchase 25 million metric tons (MMT) of soybeans annually through 2028 - an increase from the current marketing year commitment of 12 MMT.
U.S. soybean growers are committed to supplying a high-quality, reliable product to customers around the world and look forward to policies and trade outcomes that strengthen demand, improve competitiveness, and support long-term growth for American agriculture.
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Original text here: https://soygrowers.com/news-releases/asa-statement-on-ongoing-u-s-china-meeting/
[Category: Agriculture]
AICPA Updates Standards Involving Audit Confirmations
NEW YORK, May 15 -- The American Institute of CPAs issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AICPA Updates Standards Involving Audit Confirmations
The Auditing Standards Board, a key standard-setting body of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), today approved a standards update that would modernize how CPAs obtain audit evidence through external confirmation procedures.
The new Statement on Auditing Standards: External Confirmations, introduces a new requirement for the auditor to use external confirmation procedures for cash and cash equivalents held by third parties unless
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, May 15 -- The American Institute of CPAs issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AICPA Updates Standards Involving Audit Confirmations
The Auditing Standards Board, a key standard-setting body of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), today approved a standards update that would modernize how CPAs obtain audit evidence through external confirmation procedures.
The new Statement on Auditing Standards: External Confirmations, introduces a new requirement for the auditor to use external confirmation procedures for cash and cash equivalents held by third parties unlesscertain conditions exist and provides updates to reflect the increasingly widespread use of intermediaries in external confirmation procedures. Additionally, the revisions require certain new conditions be met when using negative confirmations.
One key change is that the new standard provides guidance regarding directly accessing information maintained by a knowledgeable external source as a means of satisfying requirements related to external confirmation procedures.
"External confirmations remain a critical source of reliable audit evidence, and these updates are designed to strengthen that foundation in today's increasingly digital and intermediary-driven environment," said Jen Burns, chief auditor with the AICPA.
The new SAS, expected to be available shortly on aicpa-cima.com, will be effective for firms on Dec. 15, 2028, although early adoption is possible.
For general information about the ASB and to view the standard when published, please visit aicpa-cima.com/asb-standards.
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About the American Institute of CPAs
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is the world's largest member association representing the CPA profession, with 397,000 members and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education, and consulting. A founding member of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession, attestation standards, and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, partners across the profession to build future talent, and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance, and quality of the profession.
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Original text here: https://www.aicpa-cima.com/news/article/aicpa-updates-standards-involving-audit-confirmations
[Category: Accounting]
AAHOA Supports Los Angeles City Council Effort to Potentially Delay Hotel and Airport Wage Mandate Implementation
ATLANTA, Georgia, May 15 -- The Asian American Hotel Owners Association issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AAHOA Supports Los Angeles City Council Effort to Potentially Delay Hotel and Airport Wage Mandate Implementation
AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) today expressed support for the Los Angeles City Council's move to potentially delay implementation of the city's proposed hotel and airport worker wage mandate. AAHOA Members own more than 1,100 hotels in Greater Los Angeles.
The Council voted Wednesday to advance an ordinance that would potentially postpone
... Show Full Article
ATLANTA, Georgia, May 15 -- The Asian American Hotel Owners Association issued the following news release on May 14, 2026:
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AAHOA Supports Los Angeles City Council Effort to Potentially Delay Hotel and Airport Wage Mandate Implementation
AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) today expressed support for the Los Angeles City Council's move to potentially delay implementation of the city's proposed hotel and airport worker wage mandate. AAHOA Members own more than 1,100 hotels in Greater Los Angeles.
The Council voted Wednesday to advance an ordinance that would potentially postponeimplementation of the $30 minimum wage timeline from 2028 to 2030, while allowing continued negotiations among city leaders, labor organizations, and hospitality industry stakeholders.
The action follows growing concerns from hotel owners and businesses about the economic impact of the ordinance, which would increase hotel worker wages from $22.50 in 2025 to $30 by 2028, while adding mandatory healthcare benefit payments beginning in 2026.
"AAHOA Members support fair wages and strong career opportunities for hotel employees, but policies of this magnitude must reflect the economic realities facing hotel owners," said AAHOA Chairman Rahul Patel. "Many hotel owners, particularly small business and family-owned operators, continue to face rising labor costs, increased insurance premiums, higher taxes, and ongoing operational challenges. Delaying implementation provides an opportunity for meaningful discussions that can lead to a more balanced and sustainable solution for workers, hotel owners, and the city."
Opponents of the wage increase, including AAHOA, gathered enough signatures to qualify a measure for the Nov. 3 ballot that would repeal the city's gross receipts tax. City officials said the measure could remove some $740 million from the city's general fund in the first year alone, impacting funding for police, firefighters, homelessness programs, and other services.
Supporters of the ballot measure, including airline and hotel industry groups, have indicated they would withdraw the effort if the city delays or halts implementation of the proposed $30 hourly minimum wage.
"The hospitality industry remains a critical economic driver for Los Angeles, supporting jobs, tourism, and local communities," said AAHOA President and CEO Laura Lee Blake. "This pause creates an important opportunity for policymakers and stakeholders to work together toward solutions that protect workers while ensuring hotels can continue operating, investing in their properties, and sustaining local jobs as Los Angeles prepares to welcome the world in 2028."
AAHOA will continue advocating for policies that support long-term economic growth, protect hospitality jobs, and preserve the viability of hotel operations across the region.
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About AAHOA
AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the nation, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA's 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.4% of the nation's GDP. More than 1 million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $51.3 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA's mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.
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Original text here: https://www.aahoa.com/public/storage/2026/05/14/news_files/file_17787672486a05d59017d22.pdf
[Category: Travel]
