Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
SEMIquest Pop-Up Exhibition at Arizona Science Center Extended Through May 31
MILPITAS, California, April 15 -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release on April 14, 2026:
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SEMIquest Pop-Up Exhibition at Arizona Science Center Extended Through May 31
Offers Expanded Access to Hands-On Semiconductor Learning for Students, Educators, and Families
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PHOENIX, Arizona - The SEMI Foundation today announced the extension of SEMIquest, its immersive, hands-on STEM experience at Arizona Science Center through May 31, 2026. Originally launched in conjunction with SEMICON West 2025, the extended
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MILPITAS, California, April 15 -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release on April 14, 2026:
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SEMIquest Pop-Up Exhibition at Arizona Science Center Extended Through May 31
Offers Expanded Access to Hands-On Semiconductor Learning for Students, Educators, and Families
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PHOENIX, Arizona - The SEMI Foundation today announced the extension of SEMIquest, its immersive, hands-on STEM experience at Arizona Science Center through May 31, 2026. Originally launched in conjunction with SEMICON West 2025, the extendedrun will provide thousands more students, educators, and families with direct exposure to the semiconductor industry and the career pathways powering today's technology-driven world.
This extension is made possible through the continued support of industry partners like TMSC, Amkor, Nikon, and ASM, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening Arizona's and the nation's microelectronics workforce pipeline.
SEMIquest is part of the SEMI Foundation's broader effort to build a future-ready workforce for the semiconductor and microelectronics industry. Through initiatives such as the National Network for Microelectronics Education (NNME) and SEMI University (SEMI U), the Foundation is aligning education, workforce systems, and industry to create clear, scalable pathways into high-demand careers.
"Extending SEMIquest allows us to deepen our impact at a moment when awareness must translate into action," said Perla DeBaggis, Sr. Specialist, Career & Industry Awareness Navigator at the SEMI Foundation. "Students are not just learning about semiconductors. They are seeing where they fit. This experience makes the industry more real, accessible, and within reach, and that is how we begin to build the workforce of the future."
Expanding Access to High-Impact STEM Experiences
Since its debut in October 2025, SEMIquest has served as a dynamic entry point for more than 80,000 visitors, giving them a glimpse into the world of semiconductors through interactive, career-connected learning experiences designed to move students from curiosity to exploration. With the extension through May 31, even more visitors will have the opportunity to engage with:
* A pop-up exhibition showcasing real-world semiconductor applications
* Hands-on STEM activities
* "Day in the Life" insights from industry professionals
* Career pathway exploration tied to real jobs in the field
* Educator resources designed to bring semiconductor learning into classrooms
"SEMIquest has become a powerful way to connect our community to one of the most important industries shaping our future," said Tammy Stewart, Interim Hazel A. Hare President & CEO, Arizona Science Center. "We are proud to continue partnering with the SEMI Foundation and industry leaders to extend this experience and inspire even more students across Arizona to see themselves in STEM and semiconductor careers."
From Awareness to Opportunity
The SEMI Foundation's approach goes beyond exposure. SEMIquest is designed as a critical early step in a larger approach that connects awareness to education, training, and ultimately employment in the microelectronics industry. By extending the exhibition, the Foundation and its partners are strengthening that pipeline at a time when demand for skilled talent continues to grow.
Educators, students, families, and community organizations are encouraged to visit Arizona Science Center and experience SEMIquest before it closes on May 31.
To learn more about SEMIquest and how to get involved, contact Perla DeBaggis at pdebaggis@semi.org.
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About the SEMI Foundation
The SEMI Foundation's mission is to support economic opportunity for workers and the sustained growth of the microelectronics industry by creating pathways for job seekers and providing tools and systems for semiconductor companies to attract, develop, retain, and advance a diverse and skilled workforce. Learn more and follow the SEMI Foundation on LinkedIn.
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About SEMI
SEMI(R) is the global industry association connecting over 3,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON(R) expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members' business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.
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About Arizona Science Center
Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center is home to the Dorrance DOME--one of the most advanced digital domes in the world--where immersive astronomy shows, live performances, and community events bring art, science, and culture together beneath a dazzling 60-foot display.
Beyond the Dorrance DOME, the Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and dynamic STEM programs for all ages. Offerings include Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, teen initiatives, professional development workshops, and Adults' Night Out: Science With A TWIST. Whether onsite or at your location, the Center delivers unforgettable, hands-on STEM learning experiences. To learn more or reserve tickets, visit azscience.org or call 602.716.2000. Follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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Original text here: https://www.semi.org/en/semi-press-release/semiquest-pop-up-exhibition-at-arizona-science-center-extended-through-may-31
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[Category: Electronic Products]
SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 to Focus on Chips Act 2.0 in Shaping the Future of Europe's Semiconductor Industry
MILPITAS, California, April 15 -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release:
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SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 to Focus on Chips Act 2.0 in Shaping the Future of Europe's Semiconductor Industry
Forum Fosters Collaboration for a Unified, Competitive, and Sustainable Semiconductor Ecosystem in Europe
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BRUSSELS -- The SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 to be held on June 3 will bring together industry leaders, economists, policymakers, and technology experts to examine how geopolitical dynamics
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MILPITAS, California, April 15 -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release:
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SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 to Focus on Chips Act 2.0 in Shaping the Future of Europe's Semiconductor Industry
Forum Fosters Collaboration for a Unified, Competitive, and Sustainable Semiconductor Ecosystem in Europe
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BRUSSELS -- The SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 to be held on June 3 will bring together industry leaders, economists, policymakers, and technology experts to examine how geopolitical dynamicsare transforming the global semiconductor landscape and to identify concrete pathways for reinforcing Europe's leadership role. Registration is open (https://www.semi.org/eu/event/semi-europe-policy-forum).
As geopolitical forces rapidly and drastically reshape global markets, technological development, supply chains, and long-term strategic planning, these shifts present both profound challenges and unprecedented opportunities for regions prepared to act with vision and determination. SEMI Europe is committed to engaging with all stakeholders to advocate for a comprehensive Chips Act 2.0 initiative that will address existing gaps in the current framework. This next edition of the European Chips Act will help solidify Europe's position in the global semiconductor sector, boost competitiveness, and enhance security.
"Supply chain resilience has become a strategic imperative," said Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI. "From materials to manufacturing to logistics, we must strengthen coordination across every layer of the value chain to ensure readiness for future disruptions on a global scale."
The forum, themed Strengthening Europe's Compass in the Perfect Storm, promotes collaboration between industry and policymakers across Europe to address complex transnational challenges facing the semiconductor ecosystem. As global competition intensifies, the event will focus on strengthening Europe's supply chain resilience, aligning innovation with long-term geopolitical realities, and building strategic partnerships across borders.
"Geopolitics, technology, and industrial policy can no longer be addressed in isolation," said Laith Altimime, President of SEMI Europe. "This forum creates a critical space for leaders across the value chain to work together, anticipate risks, and define Europe's long-term strategic advantage in a rapidly shifting global environment."
Through dialogue and shared insights, the forum advocates for a unified, competitive, and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem in Europe by strengthening technological leadership while addressing challenges that no single nation or company can solve alone.
To attend the forum, please register your interest online or contact eu-policy-events@semi.org. Seating is limited.
For more details, please visit the SEMI Europe Policy Forum Brussels 2026 website and connect with SEMI Europe on LinkedIn @SEMIEurope (#PolicyForumBrussels).
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About SEMI
SEMI(R) is the global industry association connecting over 3,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON(R) expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members' business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.
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Original text here: https://www.semi.org/en/semi-press-release/semi-europe-policy-forum-brussels-2026-to-focus-on-chips-act-2.0-in-shaping-the-future-of-europes-semiconductor-industry
[Category: Electronic Products]
Military Officers Association Issues Commentary: VA Drops Appeal in Key Court Case, Ending a Threat to Veterans' Benefits
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following commentary on April 14, 2026, by digital content manager Kevin Lilley:
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VA Drops Appeal in Key Court Case, Ending a Threat to Veterans' Benefits
A court ruling that prevents the VA from downgrading disability ratings based on effective medical treatment will stand thanks to the department's decision last month to end its appeal.
The 2025 ruling by U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims in favor of Army veteran Carlton Ingram ensures that "unless the VA's own rating schedule says otherwise, the
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WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following commentary on April 14, 2026, by digital content manager Kevin Lilley:
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VA Drops Appeal in Key Court Case, Ending a Threat to Veterans' Benefits
A court ruling that prevents the VA from downgrading disability ratings based on effective medical treatment will stand thanks to the department's decision last month to end its appeal.
The 2025 ruling by U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims in favor of Army veteran Carlton Ingram ensures that "unless the VA's own rating schedule says otherwise, theVA must not give a lower disability rating to a veteran because they take medication that helps treat their condition," according to an April 6 press release from the National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP), which represented Ingram.
MOAA and other veteran advocacy groups called for the VA to end its legal fight in February, after the department published, then rescinded, a rule the department said would "clarify existing policy and protect veterans' benefits in the wake of an ongoing court action."
MOAA disagreed with that interpretation of the rule, saying instead that it "fails to account for treatment burdens, creates harmful incentives, destabilizes access to benefits, and was promulgated without adequate public input."
More Work Ahead
MOAA appreciates the decisions to rescind the rule and drop the appeal, and looks forward to continued dialogue to ensure that service-connected disability ratings are never reduced due to the effects of treatment.
It should also be made clear that keeping to a treatment plan will not result in a lower disability rating, ensuring veterans are not incentivized to skip treatments prior to evaluations or otherwise risk their health to preserve service-earned benefits.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) recently introduced the Carlton H. Ingram Veterans' Benefits Protection Act (S. 4140) to codify the discounting of the beneficial effects of medication or treatment when determining a disability rating. This legislation recognizes that using medication to cope with chronic illness, injury, or disease is not the same as an improvement in the condition itself.
MOAA will continue to engage with the VA on this and other veterans' concerns, and will work with lawmakers throughout the upcoming budget process to ensure the department has the resources to provide health care and benefits to our nation's veterans.
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Original text here: https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2026-news-articles/benefits/va-drops-appeal-in-key-court-case,-ending-a-threat-to-veterans-benefits/
[Category: National Defense]
MISTRAS Group Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global NDT Field Inspection Services Company of the Year Recognition for Excellence in Integrated Asset Integrity and Digital Execution
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 15 -- Frost and Sullivan, a provider of market research and analysis, growth strategy consulting and corporate training services, posted the following news release:
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MISTRAS Group Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global NDT Field Inspection Services Company of the Year Recognition for Excellence in Integrated Asset Integrity and Digital Execution
MISTRAS Group delivers customer-centric asset integrity solutions that drive operational efficiency and performance improvement across global industries.
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Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that MISTRAS Group has
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SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 15 -- Frost and Sullivan, a provider of market research and analysis, growth strategy consulting and corporate training services, posted the following news release:
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MISTRAS Group Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global NDT Field Inspection Services Company of the Year Recognition for Excellence in Integrated Asset Integrity and Digital Execution
MISTRAS Group delivers customer-centric asset integrity solutions that drive operational efficiency and performance improvement across global industries.
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Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that MISTRAS Group hasbeen given the 2026 Global Company of the Year recognition in the NDT field inspection services sector for its outstanding achievements in operational efficiency, technical differentiation, service quality, and strategic diversification. This recognition highlights MISTRAS Group's consistent leadership in driving measurable outcomes, strengthening its market position, and delivering customer-centric innovation in an evolving competitive landscape.
Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: strategy effectiveness and strategy execution. MISTRAS Group excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align strategic initiatives with market demand while executing them with efficiency, consistency, and scale. "MISTRAS differentiates itself through integration. It combines inspection services with internally-developed engineered products and a dedicated software division that aggregates field data captured by proprietary equipment and certified technicians. This model enables data consolidation, advanced analytics, and actionable insights that support risk-informed asset optimization," said Prem Shanmugam, VP & Global Practice Area Leader at Frost & Sullivan.
Guided by a long-term growth strategy focused on customer-centricity, asset integrity, and reliability management, MISTRAS Group has shown its ability to adapt and lead in a rapidly-evolving landscape. The company's strategic agility and sustained investment in digital execution and advanced inspection technologies have enabled it to scale effectively across global markets. Innovation is central to MISTRAS Group's approach. Its suite of asset protection and integrity solutions includes sensor-based continuous monitoring systems, field mobile applications, AI analytics-driven asset management tools, digital twin technology, and proprietary inspection platforms. It addresses the full spectrum of industrial asset management needs, offering enhanced visibility, reliability, and performance optimization.
MISTRAS Group's unwavering commitment to customer experience further strengthens its position in the market. By integrating inspection services with internally-developed engineered products and a dedicated software division, the company enables seamless data consolidation, advanced analytics, and actionable insights. Its digital execution model--supported by automated reporting, real-time visibility, and transparent performance validation--enhances decision-making and reinforces long-term customer relationships. The company's emphasis on frontline technical expertise ensures consistent service quality and operational excellence across diverse and complex environments.
Frost & Sullivan commends MISTRAS Group for setting a high standard in competitive strategy, execution, and market responsiveness. The company's vision, innovation pipeline, and customer-first culture are shaping the future of NDT Field Inspection Services and driving tangible results at scale. "Being recognized by Frost & Sullivan as Company of the Year is a reflection of how we are executing on our strategy to deliver integrated asset integrity solutions at scale. At MISTRAS, we combine expertise, execution, and intelligence to help our customers reduce risk, extend asset life, and operate more safely and efficiently. This recognition reinforces the value of our approach and the impact our teams are delivering every day," said Natalia Shuman, President and Chief Executive Officer at MISTRAS.
Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Company of the Year Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding strategy development and implementation, resulting in measurable improvements in market share, customer satisfaction, and competitive positioning. It recognizes forward-thinking organizations that are reshaping their industries through innovation and growth excellence.
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About MISTRAS Group, Inc.
MISTRAS Group, Inc. (NYSE: MG) is a global leader in technology-enabled industrial asset integrity and laboratory testing solutions, serving critical strategic markets including oil & gas, aerospace & defense, industrials, power generation & transmission, infrastructure, engineering and research. The Company provides a diversified portfolio of products and services, ranging from advanced non-destructive testing and pipeline inspections to real-time condition monitoring, maintenance planning, and specialized engineering, powered by a proprietary management software suite that centralizes integrity data for predictive analytics and benchmark analysis. With a long-standing track record of innovation and deep industry expertise, MISTRAS helps clients reduce risk, extend asset life, and optimize operational performance. Learn more at www.mistrasgroup.com.
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Original text here: https://www.frost.com/news/press-releases/mistras-group-receives-frost-sullivans-2026-global-ndt-field-inspection-services-company-of-the-year-recognition-for-excellence-in-integrated-asset-integrity-and-digital-execution/
[Category: BizConsulting]
INCOMPAS and Broadband Coalition Push to Accelerate Infrastructure Through American Broadband Deployment Act
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- INCOMPAS issued the following news release:
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INCOMPAS and Broadband Coalition Push to Accelerate Infrastructure Through American Broadband Deployment Act
INCOMPAS, the competitive communications and AI infrastructure association, alongside the Competitive Carriers Association, ConnectAI, CTIA, Fiber Broadband Association, NATE, NCTA, NTCA, Rural Wireless Association, USTelecom, Wireless Infrastructure Association, and WISPA, submitted a joint letter to U.S. House leadership urging immediate floor consideration of H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act of
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WASHINGTON, April 15 -- INCOMPAS issued the following news release:
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INCOMPAS and Broadband Coalition Push to Accelerate Infrastructure Through American Broadband Deployment Act
INCOMPAS, the competitive communications and AI infrastructure association, alongside the Competitive Carriers Association, ConnectAI, CTIA, Fiber Broadband Association, NATE, NCTA, NTCA, Rural Wireless Association, USTelecom, Wireless Infrastructure Association, and WISPA, submitted a joint letter to U.S. House leadership urging immediate floor consideration of H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act of2025 (ABDA). The coalition calls on Congress to advance the legislation without delay, citing its potential to accelerate broadband deployment, close the digital divide, and strengthen America's position in the global AI race.
The following statement can be attributed to Chip Pickering, CEO of INCOMPAS:
"Congress has made historic commitments to universal connectivity through the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, however both BEAD and broader AI infrastructure goals will fall short without meaningful permitting reform. Excessive fees, unpredictable timelines, and discriminatory permitting practices act as systemic barriers preventing critical network investment from reaching communities that need it most.
ABDA gives Congress the opportunity to turn years of bipartisan consensus into durable law by codifying the Federal Communications Commission's deployment-streamlining orders developed over the past two decades, establish a consistent nationwide permitting framework, and preserve equitable access to rights-of-way for fiber, cable, small cells, and associated power transmission infrastructure. Our members are ready to invest, build, and deliver. Congress should pass this legislation without delay."
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The Honorable Mike Johnson, Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives, H-232, The Capitol, Washington, D.C. 20515
The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries, Minority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
H-204, The Capitol, Washington, D.C. 20515
Re: H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act
Dear Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries:
On behalf of the undersigned organizations, representing the stakeholders who build, own, manage, and enable the communications networks millions of Americans rely on every day, we urge you to bring H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025 ("ABDA"), to the floor without delay. Broadband underpins our society and economic growth, and its importance is only rising as Artificial Intelligence ("AI") becomes embedded in daily life. Congress made a historic down payment on universal connectivity with the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment ("BEAD") program, which is now moving into implementation. But both BEAD and America's broader leadership in AI will fall short if today's permitting barriers remain. ABDA would help remove those barriers by establishing a nationwide, predictable, and proportionate permitting framework to accelerate deployment, close the digital divide, and bring connected tools to every community.
Broadband access is essential to full participation in the modern economy, and there is clear bipartisan agreement on that point. From farmers using connected tools to boost yields, to municipalities modernizing services to improve accessibility and strengthen public safety, connectivity benefits us all. Yet universal connectivity will remain out of reach without permitting reform--a challenge that has spanned administrations and can blunt the impact of federal and private investment. As NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth warned, "[p]ermitting obstacles are another major factor that will determine whether BEAD projects succeed or fail."1 These barriers are not new--over a year prior, then-NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson told the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, "[Permitting] is something we've heard a lot about, we're doing a ton at the federal level, [and] the local level is really important."2 While NTIA has taken important steps to streamline BEAD-funded projects, this targeted streamlining does not solve the broader problem alone. Congress can by enacting ABDA and clearing avoidable bottlenecks for both federally supported builds and ongoing private investment.
The high costs and delays stemming from inefficient permitting processes go beyond limiting the reach of these critical networks, they also raise costs for consumers. The externalities from these permitting barriers limit the ability of new entrants to enter underserved markets and spur competition to drive down costs. Further, every dollar of capital activity that is sunk into the permitting process is money that cannot be invested in more efficient and modern networking equipment--discouraging the kinds of consistent investment that has enabled our current robust and competitive broadband ecosystem.3
Permitting reform is also urgent because it directly supports America's position in the global AI race. Ubiquitous, high-speed broadband, both at home and on the move, is foundational to AI adoption, since connectivity is what allows consumers and businesses to use these tools effectively. As FCC Commissioner Trusty observed, "AI cannot function without connectivity. And, Americans cannot benefit from AI without access to connectivity."4 ABDA would help preserve and extend the FCC's deployment enabling reforms by establishing a consistent, nationwide permitting framework.
A core feature of ABDA is that it codifies the FCC's deployment-streamlining orders and interpretations developed over the past two decades. Adopted under both Republican and Democratic administrations, these rules respect the vital role of state and local governments in protecting community character, aesthetics, and safety while ensuring infrastructure can be deployed on reasonable timelines. The FCC frameworks ABDA would codify have helped deliver the world-class connectivity most Americans enjoy today. Clear rules of the road, such as streamlined review for deployments on existing infrastructure and firm shot clocks for application decisions, are essential to a connected future. ABDA would also help preserve equitable access to rights-of-way for modern wireline and wireless infrastructure, including fiber, cable, small cells, and associated power transmission, which deliver broadband and other services, including AI. Congress should make this predictable, proportionate, and transparent permitting process consistently available nationwide.
The House has already shown bipartisan momentum to improve the communications permitting landscape. This year, H.R. 5419, the Enhancing Administrative Reviews for Broadband Deployment Act and H.R. 1665, the DIGITAL Applications Act, advanced by voice vote. Efforts to speed deployment on federal lands are welcome, but Americans need relief from unnecessary red tape nationwide. ABDA is the next step to streamline applications, accelerate network upgrades and expansion, and help lower costs for consumers.
The members of our organizations invest continuously to expand and improve high-quality broadband networks for every American. We ask Congress to match that commitment by advancing and enacting the American Broadband Deployment Act. Thank you for your consideration and for your ongoing work to expand economic opportunity in the 21st century. We stand ready to support you and your staff as ABDA moves forward.
Respectfully submitted,
Competitive Carriers Association
ConnectAI
CTIA
Fiber Broadband Association
INCOMPAS -- The Competitive Communications and AI Infrastructure Association
NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association
NCTA -- The Internet & Television Association
NTCA -- The Rural Broadband Association
Rural Wireless Association
USTelecom -- The Broadband Association
Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA)
WISPA -- Broadband Without Boundaries
Cc:
Hon. Brett Guthrie, Chair, House Committee on Energy and Commerce
Hon. Frank Pallone, Ranking Member, House Committee on Energy and Commerce
Hon. Richard Hudson, Chair, House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
Hon. Doris Matsui, Ranking Member, House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
Hon. Earl "Buddy" Carter (GA-1), Bill Sponsor, H.R. 2289, American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025
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Original text here: https://incompas.org/news-post/incompas-and-broadband-coalition-push-to-accelerate-infrastructure-through-american-broadband-deployment-act/
[Category: Telecommunications]
CTA Unveils Speaker Lineup for Health Future Summit 2026, Spotlighting AI's Role in Everyday Health
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 15 -- The Consumer Technology Association issued the following news release:
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CTA Unveils Speaker Lineup for Health Future Summit 2026, Spotlighting AI's Role in Everyday Health
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)(R) will host its third annual HealthFuture Summit on April 28-29, 2026, bringing the event to San Francisco, California, for the first time. From sleep tracking and metabolic monitoring to stress detection and personalized nutrition, HealthFuture will gather leaders in technology, healthcare, research and policy to explore how these innovations
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 15 -- The Consumer Technology Association issued the following news release:
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CTA Unveils Speaker Lineup for Health Future Summit 2026, Spotlighting AI's Role in Everyday Health
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)(R) will host its third annual HealthFuture Summit on April 28-29, 2026, bringing the event to San Francisco, California, for the first time. From sleep tracking and metabolic monitoring to stress detection and personalized nutrition, HealthFuture will gather leaders in technology, healthcare, research and policy to explore how these innovationsare converging into a new model of care that is proactive, data-driven, and deeply integrated into daily routines.
Keynotes and panel discussions will address major digital health trends, including:
* The predictive health era, powered by AI-driven analysis
* Wearables leading the next generation of digital health tools
* Preventive wellness and lifestyle health technologies
"HealthFuture is where the digital health community comes together to build a blueprint for better care," said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, Consumer Technology Association. "By connecting innovators, clinicians and policymakers, CTA is accelerating technologies that make health more personal, proactive and accessible."
Confirmed speakers include:
* Andy Beckman, Director, Garmin
* Dr. Luca Belli, AI Safety Lead, Spring Health
* Emily Brown, CEO, Attane Health
* Dr. Jenna Carl, Chief Medical Officer, Big Health
* Dr. Chris Curry, Clinical Director of Women's Health, OURA
* Dr. Russel DuBois, VP, Clinical Quality & Innovation, BetterHelp
* Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, Global Chief Medical Officer, Aidoc
* Dr. Tracy Giest, Senior Staff Research Scientist, Google and Fitbit
* Dr. Carolyn Jasik, Associate Chief Clinical Officer, Verily
* Tobias Kirchhoff, Founder & CEO, Variowell
* John Lopos, CEO, National Sleep Foundation
* Brian Maguire, Chief Commercial Officer, LXE Hearing
* Michael Phillips, Director of Partnerships, AARP
* Dr. Dana Udall, Former Chief Clinical officer, Nourish and Headspace
* Sally Lange Witkowski, CEO, Snooz
* Megan Zweig, President & CEO, Rock Health Advisory
As digital health technologies continue to evolve, HealthFuture Summit builds on the momentum of digital health innovation at CES 2026, bringing together leaders working to advance the future of personalized, technology-driven healthcare.
To learn more about the event, including the full agenda, visit CTA.tech.
If you are a credentialed member of the press and are interested in attending, please contact media@cta.tech.
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About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)(R):
As North America's largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world's leading innovators - from startups to global brands - helping support more than 17 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES(R) - the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.
About CES(R):
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world - the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)(R), CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2027 takes place Jan. 6-9 in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social.
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Original text here: https://www.cta.tech/press-releases/cta-unveils-speaker-lineup-for-healthfuture-summit-2026-spotlighting-ais-role-in-everyday-health
[Category: Electronic Products]
CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in March As Tax Refunds Offset Rising Gas Prices
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on April 14, 2026:
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CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in March As Tax Refunds Offset Rising Gas Prices
Retail sales rose again in March as consumers received higher-than-usual tax refunds that made up for increased gasoline prices, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today by NRF.
"Retail sales grew for a sixth consecutive month in March as the first wave of tax refunds offset higher gas prices resulting from the conflict in the Middle East," NRF
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WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on April 14, 2026:
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CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in March As Tax Refunds Offset Rising Gas Prices
Retail sales rose again in March as consumers received higher-than-usual tax refunds that made up for increased gasoline prices, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today by NRF.
"Retail sales grew for a sixth consecutive month in March as the first wave of tax refunds offset higher gas prices resulting from the conflict in the Middle East," NRFPresident and CEO Matthew Shay said. "Despite record low consumer sentiment and the highest inflation rate in two years, consumers continued to spend on household priorities. As consumers focus on costs, retailers remain laser-focused on keeping prices competitive and affordable."
Total retail sales, excluding automobile dealers and gasoline stations, were up 0.4% seasonally adjusted month over month and up 6.59% unadjusted year over year in March, according to the Retail Monitor. That compared with increases of 0.28% month over month and 6.24% year over year in February.
The Retail Monitor calculation of core retail sales (excluding restaurants in addition to auto dealers and gas stations) was up 0.41% month over month in March and up 7.05% year over year. That compared with increases of 0.27% month over month and 5.87% year over year in February.
Total sales were up 6.18% year over year during the first quarter, and core sales were up 6.14%.
The numbers come as the IRS says 2026 tax refunds averaged $3,521 as of late March, up 11.1% from 2025 following changes in tax law passed last year.
Unlike survey-based numbers collected by the Census Bureau, the Retail Monitor uses actual, anonymized credit and debit card purchase data compiled by Affinity Solutions and does not need to be revised monthly or annually.
March sales were up in all but one of nine categories on a yearly basis, led by health and personal care stores, clothing stores and sporting goods stores, and were up in all but two categories on a monthly basis. Specifics from key sectors include:
* Health and personal care stores were up 0.51% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 12.25% year over year unadjusted.
* Clothing and accessories stores were up 0.57% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 10.89% year over year unadjusted.
* Sporting goods, hobby, music and book stores were up 0.4% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 10.88% year over year unadjusted.
* Digital products (such as electronic books and games) were up 1.42% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 9.39% year over year unadjusted.
* General merchandise stores were up 0.38% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 8.77% year over year unadjusted.
* Electronics and appliance stores were up 0.06% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 7.67% year over year unadjusted.
* Grocery and beverage stores were up 0.39% month over month seasonally adjusted and up 3.78% year over year unadjusted.
* Furniture and home furnishings stores were down 0.11% month over month seasonally adjusted but up 3.54% year over year unadjusted.
* Building and garden supply stores were down 0.08% month over month seasonally adjusted and down 0.47% year over year unadjusted.
To learn more, visit nrf.com/nrf/cnbc-retail-monitor.
As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF provides data on retail sales each month and also forecasts annual retail sales and spending for key periods such as the holiday season each year.
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About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation's largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs -- 55 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. nrf.com
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Original text here: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/cnbc-nrf-retail-monitor-shows-sales-grew-in-march-as-tax-refunds-offset-rising-gas-prices
[Category: Business]
