Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
STATEMENT: GOVERNOR EVERS' VETO OF RIGHT-TO-RACE BILL STALLS WISCONSIN'S ECONOMIC ENGINE
DIAMOND BAR, California, April 10 -- The Specialty Equipment Market Association issued the following statement on April 9, 2026:
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STATEMENT: GOVERNOR EVERS' VETO OF RIGHT-TO-RACE BILL STALLS WISCONSIN'S ECONOMIC ENGINE
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Performance Racing Industry (PRI) subsidiary issued the following statement following Gov. Tony Evers' veto of AB 880:
Governor Tony Evers claims to have fond childhood memories growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, but just vetoed AB 880, the Right-to-Race bill, just so his trial-lawyer buddies can keep suing tracks
... Show Full Article
DIAMOND BAR, California, April 10 -- The Specialty Equipment Market Association issued the following statement on April 9, 2026:
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STATEMENT: GOVERNOR EVERS' VETO OF RIGHT-TO-RACE BILL STALLS WISCONSIN'S ECONOMIC ENGINE
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Performance Racing Industry (PRI) subsidiary issued the following statement following Gov. Tony Evers' veto of AB 880:
Governor Tony Evers claims to have fond childhood memories growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, but just vetoed AB 880, the Right-to-Race bill, just so his trial-lawyer buddies can keep suing tracksout of business.
Evers acted despite overwhelming support from lawmakers from across the state who know the value of small businesses and the cultural importance of motorsports. There was no registered opposition to this bill, and for good reason: motorsports matter.
Wisconsin's racetracks foster an industry that is the soul of Wisconsin's small, multi-generational business community and the engine of the state's economic viability, including:
* $2.46 billion in total economic impact
* 10,601 jobs
* $697.92 million in wages and benefits
* $271.60 million in tax revenue.
Motorsports is an industry that has enlivened life in Wisconsin for nearly a century. Instead of protecting Wisconsin's economy and network of family-owned dirt ovals, drag strips, and every motorsports facility in between, and instead of fostering American manufacturing, STEM education, and engineering innovation, Evers made it crystal clear whose side he's on: lawyers and NIMBYs.
SEMA and PRI instead will continue to stand with the working families, racers, mechanics, concession workers, and fans who lose when tracks close. This race isn't finished. In fact, our coalition is stronger than ever, and we're just getting started.
BACKGROUND
* AB 880, which was passed in the Wisconsin State Legislature with strong support in the Assembly and Senate, would protect long-standing racetracks from nuisance-based lawsuits brought by nearby property owners who moved into the area after the tracks were already established.
* SEMA and PRI support "Right-to-Race" laws like AB 880 that protect legally compliant, long-standing tracks from nuisance claims. These protections ensure facilities that follow all laws and permits can operate without constant legal threats, preserving racing heritage, jobs, and revenue generated by motorsports.
* The automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries annually contribute a combined $406 billion to the national economy, including $69 billion by the motorsports industry alone, and support millions of jobs nationwide. Lawmakers should champion commonsense policies to protect racetrack operations, prosperity, and longevity.
* SEMA and PRI work with lawmakers, track operators, sanctioning bodies, and parts manufacturers to advance these protections through advocacy, coalition building, and grassroots engagement. Tracks have operated for decades and deserve stability. This commonsense legislation ensures facilities that predate neighbors are legally protected, preserving both urban and rural jobs, tourism, and community tradition.
* Motorsports venues are vital to local economies, small businesses, tourism, and heritage. Still, many face lawsuits from neighbors who moved in after the track was established and seek to limit operations or shut down the venue entirely.
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ABOUT PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY
Performance Racing Industry fuels the passion for motorsports by building, promoting, and protecting the worldwide racing community. PRI supports the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies and businesses through legislative action and advocacy, its monthly business magazine Performance Racing Industry, and the world's premier motorsports trade show, the PRI Trade Show. PRI also supports businesses by providing market research, education and best practices in motorsports business and racing technology. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.
ABOUT SEMA
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates nearly $53 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit www.sema.org.
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Original text here: https://www.sema.org/news-media/press-release/statement-governor-evers-veto-right-race-bill-stalls-wisconsins-economic
[Category: Industrial Materials]
Nine Organisations Honoured by CompTIA for Their Outstanding Efforts to Grow the Tech Workforce in EMEA
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, April 10 -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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Nine organisations honoured by CompTIA for their outstanding efforts to grow the tech workforce in EMEA
Annual partner awards recognise excellence in tech education and training
*
Nine organisations that are preparing individuals for employment opportunities in technology occupations have been awarded 2025 EMEA Partner Excellence Awards by CompTIA, the leading global provider of vendor-neutral information technology training and certifications.
Award winners include academic institutions, career training
... Show Full Article
DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, April 10 -- CompTIA posted the following news release:
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Nine organisations honoured by CompTIA for their outstanding efforts to grow the tech workforce in EMEA
Annual partner awards recognise excellence in tech education and training
*
Nine organisations that are preparing individuals for employment opportunities in technology occupations have been awarded 2025 EMEA Partner Excellence Awards by CompTIA, the leading global provider of vendor-neutral information technology training and certifications.
Award winners include academic institutions, career trainingproviders and government entities that excel at equipping people with the skills they need to achieve career success and reach their full potential.
"The strength of CompTIA in EMEA is defined by the strength of our partners," said Jason Moss, Senior Vice President, EMEA, CompTIA. "These partners have demonstrated outstanding growth, strategic alignment and a clear commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes for learners, enterprises and governments."
The 2025 CompTIA EMEA Partner Excellence Award winners:
Western Europe
* Delivery Partner of the Year: ITonlinelearning
* Academic Partner of the Year: SOLAS
* Strategic Growth Partner: Firebrand Training
Central and Eastern Europe
* Delivery Partner of the Year: SOFTRONIC Sp. z o. o.
* Academic Partner of the Year: MindRefined GmbH
* Strategic Growth Partner: Altkom Akademia S.A.
Middle East and North Africa
* Delivery Partner of the Year: AITCS
* Academic Partner of the Year: Tuwaiq Academy
* Strategic Growth Partner: Global Knowledge Saudi Arabia
EMEA Overall
* Delivery Partner of the Year: AITCS
* Academic Partner of the Year: SOLAS
* Strategic Growth Partner: Global Knowledge Saudi Arabia
"The performance of these partners sets the benchmark for excellence across our region," Moss said. "We are excited to continue accelerating that progress together with these outstanding organisations."
CompTIA is a global leader in vendor-neutral IT certifications and training, focused on promoting growth and skills development throughout the IT ecosystem and the millions of people that make up the tech workforce. CompTIA has awarded over 3.6 million certifications to professionals in disciplines such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data, networking and technical support.
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About CompTIA
CompTIA, Inc. is dedicated to unlocking potential for students, career changers, and professionals pursuing technology careers. Through education, training, certifications, and research, it promotes industry growth, builds a skilled workforce, and ensures technology's benefits are accessible to everyone.
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Original text here: https://www.comptia.org/en-us/about-us/news/press-releases/Nine-organisations-honoured-by-CompTIA-for-their-outstanding-efforts-to-grow-the-tech-workforce-in-EMEA/
[Category: Computer Technology]
NCGA Surveys Find Rising Alarm Over Fertilizer Costs and Availability, With Risks Escalating Into 2027
CHESTERFIELD, Missouri, April 10 (TNSrep) -- The National Corn Growers Association issued the following news on April 8, 2026:
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NCGA Surveys Find Rising Alarm Over Fertilizer Costs and Availability, with Risks Escalating Into 2027
Author: Nicole Hasheider
U.S. corn farmers are facing growing uncertainty around fertilizer affordability and access, with concern mounting well beyond the current planting season, according to new survey results released today by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).
Findings from two nationwide surveys conducted in late March reveal that while many
... Show Full Article
CHESTERFIELD, Missouri, April 10 (TNSrep) -- The National Corn Growers Association issued the following news on April 8, 2026:
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NCGA Surveys Find Rising Alarm Over Fertilizer Costs and Availability, with Risks Escalating Into 2027
Author: Nicole Hasheider
U.S. corn farmers are facing growing uncertainty around fertilizer affordability and access, with concern mounting well beyond the current planting season, according to new survey results released today by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).
Findings from two nationwide surveys conducted in late March reveal that while manygrowers secured fertilizer supplies for the 2026 crop before recent global disruptions intensified, anxiety about fertilizer pricing and availability is rapidly accelerating-particularly for the 2027 crop year.
"Fertilizer prices were high even before the war in Iran began," said Jed Bower, Ohio farmer and NCGA President. "Added market stress due to the Strait of Hormuz closure has only intensified an already difficult situation, particularly as we look towards 2027."
For every farmer expressing greater concern about fertilizer prices and availability for 2026, nearly two farmers report heightened concern for 2027, the surveys found, underscoring that today's market volatility is already shaping decisions well beyond this season.
Retail fertilizer prices rose following the onset of conflict in the Middle East, a critical hub for global fertilizer trade. While prices remain below their 2022 peaks, affordability has deteriorated because corn prices are much lower today. On a "currency of corn" basis, farmers now need 185 bushels of corn to purchase one ton of urea, the highest level on record.
Beyond rising costs, farmers are increasingly worried about whether fertilizer will be available when they need it. Global shipping disruptions and reports of curtailed fertilizer production in several countries are tightening supplies and heightening uncertainty across markets.
To make matters worse, two multi-billion-dollar fertilizer companies based in the United States-Mosaic Corporation and J.R. Simplot-have pushed for continuation of countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco, resulting in higher prices and a stoppage of fertilizer shipments from that country.
While near-term supplies for spring 2026 appear relatively stable for many producers, survey responses make clear that concern intensifies looking ahead. Fertilizer supply chains operate on long timelines, and disruptions today could compound into tighter supplies later this year-precisely when farmers begin securing inputs for the 2027 crop.
"Fertilizer purchasing decisions are forward-looking," the report notes, "and today's uncertainty is already influencing how growers view the risks of the next crop cycle."
Read the survey results here (https://www.ncga.com/stay-informed/media/the-corn-economy/article/2026/04/future-fertilizer-fears-farmers-say-fertilizer-risk-intensifies-in-2027).
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Nicole Hasheider
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
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Original text here: https://www.ncga.com/stay-informed/media/in-the-news/article/2026/04/ncga-surveys-find-rising-alarm-over-fertilizer-costs-and-availability-with-risks-escalating-into-2027
[Category: Agriculture]
Michigan NWTF State Chapter Invests $150,000 in First-of-Its-Kind Research
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 10 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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Michigan NWTF State Chapter Invests $150,000 in First-of-Its-Kind Research
Michigan's woods are beginning to stir this spring -- and so is the science behind wild turkey management. This year, wildlife science in the state is getting a major boost. For the first time in Michigan history, researchers are launching a long-term, large-scale study of wild turkey populations.
The project, backed by $150,000 from the Michigan State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, represents
... Show Full Article
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 10 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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Michigan NWTF State Chapter Invests $150,000 in First-of-Its-Kind Research
Michigan's woods are beginning to stir this spring -- and so is the science behind wild turkey management. This year, wildlife science in the state is getting a major boost. For the first time in Michigan history, researchers are launching a long-term, large-scale study of wild turkey populations.
The project, backed by $150,000 from the Michigan State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, representsa historic investment in understanding and conserving one of the state's most iconic game species. Hunters, conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts alike are excited for the conservation implications.
"This is the first study of its kind here in Michigan and is critical in order to better understand factors that are impacting the population," said Ryan Boyer, NWTF Midwest director of conservation operations.
From Surveys to Science
Until now, Michigan's Department of Natural Resources has relied on data from harvest surveys, annual brood surveys and public observations to monitor wild turkey populations. The hunter harvest data has largely been used as an index of abundance, and was the only data available until 2023, when the brood survey was implemented. Each summer, residents are invited to report sightings of turkeys and their broods as part of the statewide wild turkey brood survey. These surveys provide a broad snapshot of turkey reproductive success and population trends across Michigan.
While these surveys have been valuable, they do not capture detailed biological measurements needed to fully understand turkey population dynamics. That is where this new research comes in, offering a level of scientific precision new to Michigan.
"The research project will provide an improved understanding of the wild turkey population in Michigan to accurately monitor trends in abundance, evaluate harvest regulations, guide habitat management and address conflicts with turkeys in urban areas," said Ben Luukkonen, avian and wetland ecology research specialist at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "There has not been a large-scale study to estimate turkey survival or reproductive rates since turkeys were restored to Michigan, which limits our understanding of the factors influencing the turkey population. This study will provide estimates of survival, nest success, brood survival and harvest rates."
The study will last at least four years and involve trapping and banding male and female wild turkeys. GPS transmitters will be deployed on at least 120 female turkeys, allowing researchers to quantify movements and habitat selection. The data collected will help the Michigan DNR model populations and guide future management decisions.
The Researcher
Michigan State University's Department of Fisheries and Wildlife is looking for a Ph.D. research assistant who will lead the effort. The researcher will oversee a team of technicians, manage field data collection and coordinate with partners at the Michigan DNR and USDA Wildlife Services.
The research assistant will collect and process GPS data, monitor survival and harvest rates, and estimate the success of nests and broods. All of this data will feed into a robust demographic model for wild turkeys in southern Michigan.
Learn more about this position.
Fieldwork will take place year-round, requiring careful balancing of classes, field responsibilities and data management.
"From the turkey management side of things, the research will provide us with a way to track the turkey population over time and allow us to monitor the potential impacts of new regulations, disease and other factors," said Adam Bump, upland game bird specialist at the Michigan DNR. "Being able to monitor broad trends in the population over large portions of the state will help us maximize recreational opportunities while ensuring the population remains healthy."
Answering Critical Questions
Jon Gray, president of the Michigan NWTF State Chapter, emphasized the significance of the project for hunters and conservation.
"Having the research and data to back up management decisions will increase the credibility of the DNR with hunters," he said. "I think being able to show that research results are driving management recommendations will go a long way. Hopefully, hunters will see that this research is supported by the NWTF State Chapter and it will also shine a positive light on the organization and our efforts to conserve the wild turkey. The NWTF will also have research to cite if called upon for regulation recommendations. Having the research will allow us to show that the recommendations are based on science."
A Major Investment in Conservation
The NWTF Michigan State Chapter has committed $150,000 over five years from its Super Fund, a funding model through which NWTF volunteers raise money at banquets and other fundraisers and allocate a significant portion of those proceeds into impactful conservation, research and outreach projects at the state level and beyond. These dollars will cover trapping equipment, GPS transmitters and other costs associated with the research.
Gray added, "NWTF members, and all turkey hunters in the state, should be excited by this research and that the NWTF and the Michigan DNR are working in lockstep to address the most significant research needs for our beloved game bird."
This is more than a study. It is a bold step toward scientifically guided management that ensures the long-term health of Michigan's wild turkeys.
Looking Ahead
This research will answer long-standing questions about turkey survival, reproduction and harvest impacts. It will allow wildlife managers to make decisions based on the results of this study rather than relying solely on survey data, ensuring that hunting seasons and quotas continue to support healthy wild turkey populations in Michigan.
The excitement is building among hunters, wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. This historic investment and first-of-its-kind research in Michigan promise a future where wild turkeys continue to thrive for generations to come.
Gray concluded, "Hopefully, this research project will give our wild game managers the information needed to set seasons and quotas that will ensure the long-term health of the wild turkey population in Michigan and, in turn, assure that we will always have turkeys to hunt for future generations in the state. That is why the Michigan State Chapter has made a long-term commitment to fund this research, for the benefit of our NWTF members and turkey hunting in the state."
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About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 25 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. Since 2022, the NWTF has also invested over $2.3 million in critical wild turkey research that, when leveraged with partner contributions, has resulted in more than $22 million to guide the management of the wild turkey and to ensure sustainable populations. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale to deliver healthy forests and wildlife habitats, clean and abundant water, resilient communities and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues to unite a nation through the life-changing power of the outdoors.
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Original text here: https://www.nwtf.org/content-hub/michigan-nwtf-state-chapter-invests-150000-in-first-of-its-kind-research
[Category: Animals]
Infectious Diseases Society: Changes to ACIP Charter Will Further Erode Confidence in Vaccine Guidance
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 10 -- The Infectious Diseases Society of America issued the following statement on April 9, 2026, by President Ronald G. Nahass:
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Changes to ACIP charter will further erode confidence in vaccine guidance
The updated charter of CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is another alarming action by Secretary Kennedy that will further dismantle U.S. vaccine infrastructure, spread misinformation and confusion about vaccines, and lead to reduced vaccine uptake by an already confused and distrustful public.
While IDSA is absolutely committed to vaccine safety,
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 10 -- The Infectious Diseases Society of America issued the following statement on April 9, 2026, by President Ronald G. Nahass:
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Changes to ACIP charter will further erode confidence in vaccine guidance
The updated charter of CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is another alarming action by Secretary Kennedy that will further dismantle U.S. vaccine infrastructure, spread misinformation and confusion about vaccines, and lead to reduced vaccine uptake by an already confused and distrustful public.
While IDSA is absolutely committed to vaccine safety,the changes to the charter appear to skew ACIP's work toward vaccine safety and adverse events, rather than maintaining the committee's balanced and thorough approach that traditionally has considered the full scope of vaccine data, including the benefits of reducing disease burden. These changes suggest that routine immunization is unsafe -- adding to confusion and increasing vaccine hesitancy.
The charter also expands membership for areas such as toxicology, pediatric neurodevelopment and "recovery from serious vaccine injuries," which strongly signals a shift away from expertise in vaccinology and population-level benefit-risk assessment. In short, these changes elevate perspectives that are not grounded in established science and have no place in a federal advisory committee tasked with safeguarding public health.
While next steps for ACIP remain unclear, any voting or liaison members of ACIP must conduct their work in a transparent, evidence-based manner and not have a history of promoting vaccine misinformation -- requirements that are foundational to the restoration of ACIP's identity as a trusted scientific authority.
Our nation's infectious diseases clinicians and scientists remain steadfastly on the side of patients and public health, and we will not rest until science-based vaccine guidance is restored.
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About IDSA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000-plus clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity's smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Visit idsociety.org to learn more.
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Original text here: https://www.idsociety.org/news--publications-new/articles/2026/changes-to-acip-charter-will-further-erode-confidence-in-vaccine-guidance/
[Category: Medical]
ERIC Calls for Colorado Lawmakers to Oppose "Fair Share" Legislation
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The ERISA Industry Committee issued the following news release:
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ERIC Calls for Colorado Lawmakers to Oppose "Fair Share" Legislation
The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC) submitted public comments this week to Colorado lawmakers, pushing back against proposed legislation (HB26-1327) that would violate long held federal legislative and judicial precedent allowing employer benefits plans established under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to design and administer uniform benefits that reflect the needs of their nationwide workforces. In a letter to
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The ERISA Industry Committee issued the following news release:
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ERIC Calls for Colorado Lawmakers to Oppose "Fair Share" Legislation
The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC) submitted public comments this week to Colorado lawmakers, pushing back against proposed legislation (HB26-1327) that would violate long held federal legislative and judicial precedent allowing employer benefits plans established under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to design and administer uniform benefits that reflect the needs of their nationwide workforces. In a letter tomembers of the Colorado House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, ERIC warned that the proposed Colorado law would mandate new minimum spending requirements on ERISA self-insured employer plans across Colorado and that this state overreach violates not only ERISA, but also the Affordable Care Act, which amended ERISA to include national standards for health care benefit eligibility and affordability. If the state standards in the proposed legislation are applied to ERISA self-insured plans, the state would be vulnerable to costly litigation.
"One of the most critical tools employers have to attract and retain talent is offering robust and innovative health care benefits - a hallmark of the private, employer-based system. While we share the desire of Colorado lawmakers to make health care more accessible and affordable, the reality is that this legislation does anything but achieve that goal," said Dillon Clair, Director of State Advocacy, ERIC. "As families continue to grapple with affordability challenges at the gas pump and the grocery store, the last thing they need is a higher health care bill. Demanding that ERISA self-insured plans comply with the proposed Colorado law increases complexity, administrative burdens, and costs, which erodes the protections Congress envisioned when it passed ERISA. ERIC strongly urges members of the Committee to oppose this legislation or face swift legal action to protect Colorado employers from a law that does more harm than good."
There is strong legal precedent supporting ERISA preemption for approaches similar to those being considered in Colorado. In Retail Industry Leaders Association v. Fielder, the Fourth Circuit struck down a similarly designed Maryland law requiring large employers to commit a certain percentage of payroll to health benefits. The court determined that the state could not regulate those health care plans because ERISA already governs those plans.
ERIC is a national advocacy organization exclusively representing the largest employers in the United States in their capacity as sponsors of employee benefit plans for their nationwide workforces. With member companies that are leaders in every economic sector, ERIC is the voice of large employer plan sponsors on federal, state, and local public policies impacting their ability to sponsor benefit plans. ERIC member companies offer benefits to tens of millions of employees and their families, located in every state and city across the country.
The full text of ERIC's letter can be found here.
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About The ERISA Industry Committee
ERIC is a national advocacy organization that exclusively represents large employers that provide health, retirement, paid leave, and other benefits to their nationwide workforces. With member companies that are leaders in every sector of the economy, ERIC advocates on the federal, state, and local levels for policies that promote flexibility and uniformity in the administration of their employee benefit plans.
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Chairman Kyle Brown
Colorado House of Representatives
Appropriations Committee
State Capitol Building
200 E Colfax Ave, Room 307,
Denver, CO 80203
Submitted Electronically
Re: Public Comments from The ERISA Industry Committee in Opposition to HB26-1327 Re: ERISA Preemption Concerns
Dear Chair Brown and Members of the Colorado House of Representatives Appropriations Committee:
The ERISA Industry Committee ("ERIC") appreciates the opportunity to submit comments on the proposed legislation contained in HB26-1327 being considered by the Colorado House Appropriations Committee ("Committee"). While ERIC recognizes the interest among state lawmakers in expanding access to health care coverage for more Coloradans, we are deeply concerned by state policy approaches, such as those proposed by HB26-1327, that threaten the design and administration of self-funded health benefit plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"). Specifically, the application of the proposed legislative approach to ERISA health benefit plans is preempted by this federal law.
To prevent counterproductive conflicts with federal law and likely litigation challenging provisions of HB26-1327 on ERISA preemption grounds, ERIC strongly urges members of the Committee to vote to OPPOSE this legislation. ERIC is a national advocacy organization exclusively representing the largest employers in the United States in their capacity as sponsors of employee benefit plans for their nationwide workforces. With member companies that are leaders in every economic sector, ERIC is the voice of large employer plan sponsors on federal, state, and local public policies impacting their ability to sponsor uniform national benefit plans. ERIC member companies offer benefits to tens of millions of employees and their families, located in every state and city across the country.
Large employers like ERIC member companies have long been at the forefront of innovating health care benefit design and administration trends. Their ability to do so depends in large part on the protections offered by ERISA preemption. ERISA allows for a single set of standards for large, multistate employers to design and administer uniform health care and retirement benefits to their employees, regardless of where they live, work, or receive medical care. Since ERISA's enactment, large multistate employers have done just that, securing truly effective and efficient health care coverage enjoyed today by more than 160 million Americans.
Unfortunately, a series of state laws and regulations proposed and considered in recent years threaten to erode ERISA preemption, endangering the valuable benefits that ERISA self funded employer-sponsored plans have long provided. Many of these state proposals are preempted by ERISA because they overstep the limited authority that court interpretations have granted to states in this space. Furthermore, many of these state laws are aimed at moving workers off of state medical assistance programs and forcing them onto employer plans, regardless of the cost and administrative burden this places on vulnerable employer plans. In its current form, HB26-1327 would similarly conflict with legal precedent in this space by attempting to control the design and administration of federally-governed ERISA plans.
ERISA prohibits states from controlling the design and administration of self funded plans established under ERISA, as HB26-1327 proposes
Because ERISA establishes uniform federal benefits standards, including employee health care coverage eligibility, self-insured employer plans governed by ERISA are bound only by these federal coverage standards - states may not compel ERISA self-insured plans to abide by separate state coverage requirements. Specifically, HB26-1327 pursues a "fair share" policy approach by essentially dictating the scope of employees to whom large employers (with 500+ employees) must provide health benefits within the state. The bill would also create a new government enterprise with the authority to impose substantial fees on employers who fail to meet state coverage requirements for "supported workers." This would place employers between a rock and a hard place - either create a different benefit plan eligibility standard in Colorado, requiring a fully distinct plan design and enrollment apparatus than is used in every other state and territory, or pay extraordinary state penalties which will purportedly be used by the state to fund the Colorado Medicaid program.
Over 50 years ago, ERISA was created to allow for a national uniform set of rules for the design and administration of employee benefit programs. To uphold this national uniformity, Congress included Section 514, an extremely strong preemption clause, stating that "the provisions of [ERISA] shall supersede any and all State laws insofar as they may now or hereafter relate to any employee benefit plan". Furthermore, the U.S. Supreme Court has interpreted this preemption clause very broadly to supersede state laws that either: 1) refer explicitly to ERISA plans, or 2) have a substantial financial or administrative impact on them, including regulating the employee eligibility thresholds for mandatory plan coverage.
To state plainly, ERISA prohibits states from regulating ERISA self-funded plans in away that dictates the structure, funding, or administration of these plans. Moreover, federal precedent specifically related to state attempts to enforce similar "fair share" mandates has been well established by Retail Industry Leaders Association v. Fielder, a case in which the Fourth Circuit struck down Maryland's similarly designed law requiring large employers to commit a certain percentage of payroll to health benefits. The law was ultimately held to be preempted by ERISA because its operation and effect depended entirely on the health benefit spending by the employer plan. Because these aspects of plan administration are governed solely by federal law, the Court held that the state was unable to regulate plans in this way.
Importantly, the legislative approach taken by HB26-1327 would similarly establish a financial penalty for employers that is only triggered by an employer's decision to either cover or not cover workers meeting certain criteria, criteria that specifically conflicts with the criteria already laid out in amendments made to ERISA by the Affordable Care Act. This by no means represents a simple regulation of general business activity but is instead a far more broad regulation of ERISA plan design and administration. If allowed to advance, HB26-1327 would establish a unique and independent state minimum-spending formula, undermining the primacy of federal law in this space and kicking off the very balkanization of employee benefits standards that ERISA was intended to prevent.
Large, multistate employers operating ERISA self-insured plans cannot simply break off their benefits operations in Colorado to meet new state coverage standards without it impacting the rest of their benefits operation across the country. Because this erosion threatens to unravel the critical employee benefits received by millions of Americans and their families, a lawsuit challenging this state policy on ERISA preemption grounds would likely follow if the bill is enacted.
Conclusion
ERIC appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on HB26-1327 and specifically the ERISA preemption concerns raised by this legislation. While we share Colorado lawmakers' goal of expanding health care access and reducing health care costs, policies that stand to erode ERISA preemption and national benefits uniformity threaten to do more harm than good. Therefore, to uphold ERISA preemption, avoid unnecessary ERISA preemption litigation, and protect the ability of multistate employer plan sponsors to effectively offer health benefits plans to millions of Americans, ERIC strongly urges members of the Committee to oppose HB261327 in its current form.
If you have any questions concerning our comments or ERISA preemption precedent, please contact us at (202) 789-1400 or dclair@eric.org.
Sincerely,
Dillon Clair
Director, State Advocacy
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Original text here: https://www.eric.org/press_release/eric-calls-for-colorado-lawmakers-to-oppose-fair-share-legislation/
[Category: Human Resources/Personnel]
Detroit Conference Preview: See How Autonomous Technologies are Already Being Deployed and What Michigan Industry Can Learn to Accelerate Adoption
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 10 -- The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International issued the following news release:
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Detroit Conference Preview: See How Autonomous Technologies are Already Being Deployed and What Michigan Industry Can Learn to Accelerate Adoption
* XPONENTIAL 2026 brings together industry, government and companies deploying these technologies to examine how robotics and autonomous systems are already being used, and what it will take to scale them safely and quickly
* More than 100 sessions and live demonstrations will spotlight real-world applications, regulatory
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 10 -- The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International issued the following news release:
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Detroit Conference Preview: See How Autonomous Technologies are Already Being Deployed and What Michigan Industry Can Learn to Accelerate Adoption
* XPONENTIAL 2026 brings together industry, government and companies deploying these technologies to examine how robotics and autonomous systems are already being used, and what it will take to scale them safely and quickly
* More than 100 sessions and live demonstrations will spotlight real-world applications, regulatoryrealities and workforce impact
* Technologies on display will address disaster response, infrastructure inspection, manufacturing productivity and environmental protection
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Robotics and autonomous technologies are increasingly shaping how critical work gets done--from inspecting aging bridges, monitoring power grids and helping first responders save lives in disaster zones to strengthening manufacturing operations and defining the future of skilled trades. Detroit will soon host industry, government and research leaders to explore how these systems are already being deployed and to address barriers preventing wider, quicker adoption.
At XPONENTIAL 2026, taking place May 11-14 at Huntington Place, these human-centered applications will take center stage, showing how robotics and autonomy are augmenting--not replacing--human capability, strengthening critical infrastructure and supporting environmental protection efforts.
"Across Michigan and around the world, robotics and autonomous systems are already solving real problems: keeping workers safer, optimizing supply chains and helping communities respond to emergencies," said Michael Robbins, president and CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the convening organization for XPONENTIAL. "Detroit is a timely place for this conversation because it represents where advanced technologies meet real operational demands. This is about deployment, not theory."
Programming spans six tracks and more than 100 sessions and 450 speakers, offering insight into how autonomy is transforming sectors central to Michigan's economy and daily life. Below are key themes shaping this year's conversations.
The Future of Work: Robots as Collaborators, Not Replacements
Michigan, and the country at large, is facing persistent skilled labor shortages even as demand for advanced manufacturing grows. Autonomous systems will help fill gaps, but only if workers are trained to deploy, operate and maintain them. Sessions will explore how robotics and AI are augmenting human labor, strengthening productivity and creating new workforce opportunities.
Highlights include:
* Keynote from Dr. Kate Darling of MIT Media Lab and author of The New Breed: What Our History with Animals Reveals About Our Future with Robots, exploring human-robot collaboration and economic resilience
* Panels on workforce pipelines, reskilling programs and integration of autonomous systems into manufacturing and logistics
* Case studies highlighting partnerships between industry and educational institutions to build domestic talent
Public Safety: Autonomous Systems Supporting First Responders
Public safety agencies nationwide are deploying autonomous systems to improve emergency response, disaster recovery and situational awareness. In regions like the Great Lakes, applications include maritime safety, rural emergency response and disaster recovery, capabilities expected to grow as severe weather events intensify.
Programming will showcase:
* Disaster response and commercial delivery
* Medical delivery and search-and-rescue technologies for rural and maritime environments
* US-Canadian border management and safety enabled by drones
Infrastructure Protection: Inspecting What Humans Can't Reach
Across the United States, aging infrastructure is driving urgent demand for safer, more efficient inspection and repair solutions. In the Great Lakes region--home to bridges, freight corridors and ports powering U.S. manufacturing and global trade--the need is especially acute. Autonomous systems are increasingly being deployed to monitor and repair infrastructure, reducing risk while improving reliability.
Key sessions will explore:
* Drone-based inspection of transportation and energy infrastructure
* Advances in airspace integration enabling beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations, critical for large-scale inspections and emergency response
Environmental Protection: Monitoring Risk at Scale
Safeguarding freshwater resources and industrial sites is a growing priority as environmental risks become more complex and widespread. In the Great Lakes region, the stakes are especially high. Autonomous platforms are becoming essential tools for environmental surveillance and disaster prevention.
Applications highlighted will include:
* Wildfire detection and monitoring
* Coastal and marine ecosystem mapping
* Advancements in carbon-neutral aviation
Defense Integration and MDEX, May 12-14
For the first time, the AUVSI Defense Theater will collaborate with the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Michigan Chapter, seamlessly integrating the Michigan Defense Exposition (MDEX) into the broader event experience. This co-location connects autonomy innovators with defense, government and industry leaders focused on acquisition, manufacturing and operational deployment. More than 3,000 defense professionals are expected to participate, creating opportunities for companies across Michigan's defense supply chain.
Detroit and Industry Media Encouraged to Attend
Credentialed media can register for access to live demonstrations, hands-on showcases and interviews with technology developers, operators and policymakers shaping the future of autonomy. Explore the full conference program.
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About XPONENTIAL
XPONENTIAL is a yearly gathering of global leaders and end users in the uncrewed systems and robotics industry. We've proven that collaboration drives innovation, which is why XPONENTIAL is regarded as the premier event to connect and problem-solve with experts across markets and domains. It is THE technology event for autonomy.
About AUVSI
The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the uncrewed systems, autonomy, and robotics industry. AUVSI advocates for policy, education, and innovation that support safe and productive use of uncrewed systems.
About MDNA
Messe Dusseldorf North America (MDNA), located in Chicago, Illinois, is the U.S. subsidiary of Messe Dusseldorf GmbH in Germany - one of the world's largest organizers of international trade shows for the machinery, medical, retail, lifestyle and leisure industries. Messe Dusseldorf became the first German trade show organizer to establish a permanent, fully staffed office in the U.S. when it opened MDNA in 1986.
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Original text here: https://www.auvsi.org/news/xponential-preview-see-how-autonomous-technologies-are-already-being-deployed-and-what-michigan-industry-can-learn-to-accelerate-adoption/
[Category: National Defense]
