Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
Statehouse Update: OBL Testifies in Support of HB 195
COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 2 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news:
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Statehouse Update: OBL Testifies in Support of HB 195 (UCC Digital Assets Modernization)
The Ohio Bankers League recently provided proponent testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on House Bill 195, bipartisan legislation sponsored by House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn (D-Cincinnati) and Representative Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) that would modernize Ohio's Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) to address digital assets.
The bill, which previously passed the Ohio House by a strong bipartisan vote of 83-7, received
... Show Full Article
COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 2 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news:
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Statehouse Update: OBL Testifies in Support of HB 195 (UCC Digital Assets Modernization)
The Ohio Bankers League recently provided proponent testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on House Bill 195, bipartisan legislation sponsored by House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn (D-Cincinnati) and Representative Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) that would modernize Ohio's Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) to address digital assets.
The bill, which previously passed the Ohio House by a strong bipartisan vote of 83-7, receivedits second hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. OBL's SVP of Government Relations and General Counsel, Don Boyd, provided testimony in support of the legislation.
You can read OBL's testimony HERE (https://www.ohiobankersleague.com/Portals/40/Files/GRC/hb_195_obl_proponent_testimony_senate_3_25_26.pdf?ver=2026-03-27-113617-687).
You can view the hearing testimony HERE (https://ohiochannel.org/series/ohio-senate-judiciary-committee) on the Ohio Channel at the 1:04:13 mark.
What HB 195 Does
House Bill 195 adopts nationally developed updates to the UCC, including the creation of a new Article 12, which establishes a legal framework for transactions involving certain digital assets referred to as "controllable electronic records" (CERs).
These updates are based on model legislation from the Uniform Law Commission and are designed to ensure that commercial law keeps pace with emerging technologies and evolving financial transactions.
Why It Matters for Banks
In testimony, OBL emphasized that HB 195 provides critical clarity for lenders and the broader financial services industry by:
* Modernizing commercial law to reflect the increasing use of digital assets and electronic records
* Establishing clear rules for the perfection and priority of security interests in digital assets
* Allowing lenders to perfect an interest in digital collateral through "control," similar to possession of traditional collateral
* Supporting the responsible expansion of lending opportunities involving new forms of value
As noted in the testimony, current law creates uncertainty for lenders considering digital assets as collateral. HB 195 addresses this gap and provides a more predictable legal framework for secured transactions.
Maintaining Ohio's Competitive Position
OBL also highlighted the importance of maintaining uniformity with other states. More than 30 states have already adopted similar UCC updates. Without action, Ohio risks falling behind, potentially increasing costs and complexity for Ohio borrowers and lenders.
By adopting these changes, Ohio will remain aligned with national commercial law standards and continue to be an attractive jurisdiction for lending and investment.
OBL Position
The Ohio Bankers League supports House Bill 195 as a commonsense modernization of Ohio law that:
* Enhances legal certainty
* Supports innovation in commercial lending
* Reduces transaction friction
* Strengthens Ohio's economic competitiveness
OBL will continue to engage with legislators as the bill advances through the Senate.
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Original text here: https://www.ohiobankersleague.com/News-Information/Headlines/View/ArticleId/28745/Statehouse-Update-OBL-Testifies-in-Support-of-HB-195-UCC-Digital-Assets-Modernization
[Category: Financial Services]
Ridge Security Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global New Product Innovation Recognition for Leadership in Automated Security Validation
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 2 -- 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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Ridge Security Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global New Product Innovation Recognition for Leadership in Automated Security Validation
Recognized for innovation and measurable customer impact in automated security validation.
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Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Ridge Security has been recognized with the 2026 Global New Product Innovation Recognition in the Automated Security Validation
... Show Full Article
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 2 -- 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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Ridge Security Receives Frost & Sullivan's 2026 Global New Product Innovation Recognition for Leadership in Automated Security Validation
Recognized for innovation and measurable customer impact in automated security validation.
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Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Ridge Security has been recognized with the 2026 Global New Product Innovation Recognition in the Automated Security Validationindustry for its outstanding achievements in innovation, strategy execution, and customer impact. This recognition highlights Ridge Security's consistency in driving measurable outcomes, strengthening its market position, and delivering customer-centric innovation in an increasingly complex threat landscape.
Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: strategy effectiveness and strategy execution. Ridge Security excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align strategic initiatives with market demand while executing them with efficiency, consistency, and scale.
"Silicon Valley-based Ridge Security helps enterprises adapt to an increasingly dynamic threat landscape through intelligent, automated, and continuous security validation. The company positions security validation as a foundational capability that not only keeps pace with emerging threats but also ensures that existing security controls remain consistently effective over time. To address the limitations of point-in-time and manual testing approaches, Ridge Security's product design strategy emphasizes evidence-based validation that reflects real-world adversary behavior," said Daphne Dwiputriane, Research Analyst, Frost & Sullivan.
Guided by a long-term growth strategy focused on digital innovation, AI-driven product development, and customer-centric partnerships, Ridge Security has shown its ability to adapt and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape. The company's strategic agility and sustained investment in automated security validation and continuous threat exposure management (CTEM) have enabled it to scale effectively across global markets.
Innovation remains central to Ridge Security's approach. Its suite of automated security validation solutions, led by its flagship RidgeBot platform, delivers continuous attack simulation, exposure discovery, and evidence-based validation aligned to real-world adversary behavior. Leveraging proprietary AI engines, RidgeBrain and RidgeGen, the platform delivers real-world attack emulation, enabling organizations to prioritize remediation based on exploitability and impact while strengthening detection and response capabilities.
"Security teams don't need more alerts - they need proof of what can actually be exploited," said Lydia Zhang, president & co-founder at Ridge Security. "This recognition from Frost & Sullivan validates the industry's shift toward continuous, adversary-driven security validation and reinforces our mission to help organizations focus on the exposures that truly matter."
Ridge Security's strong commitment to customer experience further strengthens its position in the market. By streamlining service delivery and maintaining high levels of service availability, the company continues to meet the needs of its expanding global customer base. Its partner-led delivery model and focus on localized support have been key to delivering long-term value across diverse market segments.
Frost & Sullivan commends Ridge Security 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 automated security validation and driving tangible results at scale.
Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the New Product Innovation Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding strategy development and implementation, resulting in measurable improvements in market share, customer satisfaction, and competitive positioning. The recognition identifies forward-thinking organizations that are reshaping their industries through innovation and growth excellence.
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About Ridge Security
Ridge Security delivers intelligent, autonomous cybersecurity validation solutions that help organizations proactively manage risk and improve resilience. Its flagship platform, RidgeBot(R), is a leading agentic AI-based adversarial risk validation platform that supports continuous threat exposure management programs. Recognized by Gartner in the Market Guide for Adversarial Exposure Validation and honored with awards such as Top Emerging Cyber Security Company, CRN's Tech Elite 250, and the TMCnet Cybersecurity Excellence Award, Ridge Security serves customers around the world in sectors including finance, government, telecom, and enterprise.
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Original text here: https://www.frost.com/uncategorized/ridge-security-receives-frost-sullivans-2026-global-new-product-innovation-recognition-for-leadership-in-automated-security-validation/
[Category: BizConsulting]
NWTF Partners With Link Snacks, Inc. to Advance Conservation, Support Members and Expand Outdoor Engagement
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 2 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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NWTF Partners with Link Snacks, Inc. to Advance Conservation, Support Members and Expand Outdoor Engagement
The National Wild Turkey Federation is partnering with Jack Link's, a leading outdoor lifestyle brand known for fueling adventures in the field and beyond. This collaboration brings together two organizations committed to conservation, hunting heritage and engaging the next generation of outdoorsmen and women.
Through this partnership, Jack Link's will support NWTF's mission
... Show Full Article
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 2 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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NWTF Partners with Link Snacks, Inc. to Advance Conservation, Support Members and Expand Outdoor Engagement
The National Wild Turkey Federation is partnering with Jack Link's, a leading outdoor lifestyle brand known for fueling adventures in the field and beyond. This collaboration brings together two organizations committed to conservation, hunting heritage and engaging the next generation of outdoorsmen and women.
Through this partnership, Jack Link's will support NWTF's missiondelivery across conservation, outreach and education efforts, including a direct investment in the NWTF's Habitat for the Hatch Initiative, which focuses on improving nesting and brood-rearing habitat for wild turkeys and countless other wildlife species.
"This partnership represents a shared passion for the outdoors and a commitment to conserving the landscapes and traditions we all care about," said Natalia Daniels, NWTF national director of corporate relations. "Together with Jack Link's, we are creating meaningful opportunities to engage our members, support conservation work on the ground and introduce new audiences to the life-changing power of the outdoors."
This partnership delivers real, tangible benefits for NWTF members:
* More Conservation Impact: Jack Link's financial support helps fund critical habitat work through Habitat for the Hatch, directly benefiting wild turkey populations and the landscapes members hunt and enjoy.
* Enhanced Events and Experiences: Members will see Jack Link's presence at NWTF events nationwide, including collegiate chapter events and mentored hunts, where products, giveaways and support will enhance participant experiences and recruitment efforts.
* Stronger Hunting Heritage: By supporting mentored hunts and collegiate outreach, this partnership helps grow the next generation of hunters -- a cornerstone of NWTF's mission and long-term conservation success.
* Expanding the Reach of Conservation: The collaboration also amplifies NWTF's message to broader audiences through coordinated media, social content and event activations, helping connect more people to conservation and the outdoors.
This partnership reflects NWTF's continued commitment to working with mission-aligned partners to conserve wild turkeys and wildlife habitat, recruit and retain hunters and ensure the future of our hunting heritage.
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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/nwtf-partners-with-link-snacks-inc-to-advance-conservation-support-members-and-expand-outdoor-engagement
[Category: Animals]
Illinois Reaches B20 Milestone, Strengthening Farm Economy and Expanding Biodiesel Use
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 2 -- Clean Fuels Alliance America issued the following news release:
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Illinois Reaches B20 Milestone, Strengthening Farm Economy and Expanding Biodiesel Use
Clean Fuels Alliance America applauds Illinois' move to a B20 biodiesel blend requirement, a major milestone in the state's nation-leading efforts to expand the use of cleaner, domestically produced fuels.
Effective April 1, the minimum biodiesel blend required to qualify for Illinois' state sales tax exemption increases from B17 to B20, representing the final phase of landmark bipartisan legislation
... Show Full Article
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 2 -- Clean Fuels Alliance America issued the following news release:
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Illinois Reaches B20 Milestone, Strengthening Farm Economy and Expanding Biodiesel Use
Clean Fuels Alliance America applauds Illinois' move to a B20 biodiesel blend requirement, a major milestone in the state's nation-leading efforts to expand the use of cleaner, domestically produced fuels.
Effective April 1, the minimum biodiesel blend required to qualify for Illinois' state sales tax exemption increases from B17 to B20, representing the final phase of landmark bipartisan legislationpassed in 2022. The policy exempts qualifying biodiesel blends from the state's 6.25% sales tax, creating a powerful market incentive to drive adoption.
"This is a clear example of how smart, consistent state policy can accelerate clean fuel use while delivering real economic benefits," said Jeff Earl, Director of State Governmental Affairs at Clean Fuels. "Illinois has created a model that supports farmers, strengthens fuel markets and improves air quality all at the same time."
According to the GlobalData study Economic Impact of Biodiesel on the U.S. Economy 2024, the biodiesel industry generates $3.2 billion in annual economic activity in Illinois and supports 8,100 jobs across the state. Increased adoption of higher biodiesel blends is expected to further strengthen these economic benefits.
The legislation was spearheaded and guided through the legislative process by the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), with support from Clean Fuels and several of its member companies. The policy underscores the critical role of soybean growers and the broader agricultural sector in advancing low-carbon fuel solutions.
"Illinois' leadership demonstrates what's possible when policymakers, farmers and industry work together," Earl added. "This B20 milestone is not just a win for clean fuels; it's a win for rural communities, the environment and energy security."
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ABOUT CLEAN FUELS ALLIANCE AMERICA
Made from an increasingly diverse mix of resources such as recycled cooking oil, soybean oil, and animal fats, the clean fuels industry is a proven, integral part of America's clean energy future. Clean Fuels Alliance America is the U.S. trade association representing the entire biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel supply chain, including producers, feedstock suppliers and fuel distributors. Clean Fuels receives funding from a broad mix of private companies and associations, including the United Soybean Board and state checkoff organizations.
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Original text here: https://cleanfuels.org/illinois-reaches-b20-milestone-strengthening-farm-economy-and-expanding-biodiesel-use/
[Category: Energy]
Global Health and Fitness Leaders Call for Physical Activity and Nutrition to Be Central to Obesity Medication Rollout
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 2 -- The Health and Fitness Association (formerly the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association) issued the following joint statement on March 31, 2026, by 6 organizations:
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Global Health and Fitness Leaders Call for Physical Activity and Nutrition to Be Central to Obesity Medication Rollout
The World Obesity Federation, the Health & Fitness Association, AUSactive, Exercise New Zealand, Fitness Industry Council of Canada, ukactive, and World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry today released a joint position statement calling on governments,
... Show Full Article
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 2 -- The Health and Fitness Association (formerly the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association) issued the following joint statement on March 31, 2026, by 6 organizations:
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Global Health and Fitness Leaders Call for Physical Activity and Nutrition to Be Central to Obesity Medication Rollout
The World Obesity Federation, the Health & Fitness Association, AUSactive, Exercise New Zealand, Fitness Industry Council of Canada, ukactive, and World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry today released a joint position statement calling on governments,health systems, and international institutions to ensure that as obesity medications--including GLP-1 therapies--are scaled globally, they are supported by subsidized, integrated lifestyle interventions, with physical activity and nutrition embedded as essential elements of care.
With nearly three billion adults worldwide who are overweight or living with obesity--a figure projected to rise to four billion by 2035--the organizations emphasize that while obesity medications represent a significant clinical advancement, they must be deployed within comprehensive, integrated care models that prioritize long-term health outcomes. They are not a standalone solution.
The joint statement warns that reliance on medication alone may lead to poor long-term outcomes, including loss of muscle mass, diminished functional capacity, and widening health inequalities if access to supportive services is limited. Instead, the organizations call for a "wraparound" approach that combines pharmacological treatment with sustained investment in physical activity, nutrition, and supportive environments.
"Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response," the organizations state. "Medications can play an important role, but they are not a standalone solution. Their success will depend on whether they are integrated into systems that support prevention, long-term behavior change, and overall well-being."
The statement outlines key actions for global policymakers and health system leaders, including:
* Embedding obesity medications within integrated care models that include funded access to physical activity and nutrition support
* Protecting and expanding investment in prevention infrastructure and community-based programs
* Ensuring equitable access to both treatment and supportive services
* Measuring outcomes beyond weight, including functional health and long-term maintenance
* Aligning health and economic policy to recognize the value of prevention
Leadership Quotes
Johanna Ralston, CEO, World Obesity Federation:
"GLP-1 therapies are an important advance in obesity care, but they cannot succeed in isolation. People with obesity demand and deserve access to good nutrition and physical activity support and advice, to support lasting rather than short-term health improvements. Governments must ensure these treatments are embedded within comprehensive, person-centred systems of care."
Liz Clark, President and CEO, Health & Fitness Association:
"The emergence of effective obesity medications marks a pivotal moment in global health, but it also presents a critical choice. We can treat obesity as a short-term clinical intervention, or we can build systems that deliver lasting health outcomes. Physical activity and nutrition are not optional add-ons; they are foundational to safety, effectiveness, and long-term success. This is an opportunity to properly position our sector as an essential partner in prevention and care while ensuring individuals retain the freedom to engage in physical activity in the environments where they feel most comfortable."
Ken Griffin, CEO, AUSactive:
"New obesity medications are an active challenge to health systems. If wraparound supports are provided, these medications can deliver long-term health benefits. Governments must now decide whether they treat obesity in the short-term or invest to deliver enduring health outcomes. Physical activity and nutrition supports are essential, not optional, and the exercise and active health sector is ready to play its role as an essential partner to safely improve population health."
Richard Beddie, CEO, Exercise New Zealand:
"It's clear GLP-1 therapies can be a significant tool in addressing obesity. However, if it's not paired with strength training and other lifestyle changes the result will be increased long-term health costs for the health system and worse health outcomes for individuals. We have the opportunity to build a safe and effective intervention, but it needs to be holistic."
Zach Weston, Executive Director, Fitness Industry Council of Canada:
"As we navigate this new era of clinical obesity treatments, we must recognize that medication is only one piece of the puzzle. For these therapies to deliver true, sustainable health outcomes, they must be anchored by the professional guidance and supportive environments found in our fitness centres. Our facilities are more than just places to exercise; they are essential community hubs for maintaining the muscle mass and functional capacity that are often at risk during rapid weight loss. By integrating fitness infrastructure into the global rollout of these medications, we ensure that patients aren't just losing weight, but are gaining the strength and long-term vitality necessary for a healthier life."
Huw Edwards, CEO, ukactive:
"The global rise of obesity medications must not be viewed as a substitute for physical activity and nutrition when in fact it heightens the need for these vital elements. Research shows the risks of relying solely on weight-loss drugs and the critical need for physical activity and nutrition to form part of every treatment programme. This represents a huge opportunity in the UK and globally for our political leaders to integrate physical activity, nutrition and medication to combat obesity and the harm it causes. We have the infrastructure of gyms, swimming pools, leisure centres and other fitness services in every community, ready to support GLP-1 patients during and after treatment."
Emma Zwiebler, CEO, World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) CEO:
"As the industry that moves the world, we welcome World Obesity's joint position statement putting integrated lifestyle interventions, including physical activity, as an essential element of care in the use of obesity medications.
Growing sport, physical activity and movement is a strategic priority for our 150+ World Federation of the Sporting Goods members who are committed to driving unified and systemic impact to empower more people be physically active and enjoying the health benefits that brings.
We stand ready to collaborate on the actions outlined in the World Obesity Federation Joint Statement and are ready to play our part in improving the long-term health outcomes of nearly three billion adults worldwide who are overweight or living with obesity."
A Global Call to Action
As global leaders representing the health and fitness sector and the obesity community, the undersigned organizations and the World Obesity Federation commit to advancing evidence-based, integrated approaches that combine medication with physical activity and nutrition support. Together, we will work with governments and key stakeholders to strengthen policies, systems, and outcomes that improve population health.
The organizations underscore that investment in physical activity and nutrition benefits not only individuals receiving obesity treatment, but entire populations--making it central to both prevention and long-term health system sustainability.
Read the full joint position statement here (https://www.healthandfitness.org/wp-content/uploads/FINAL3_Joint-Position-Statement_WOF_HFA_AUSA_ENZ_FIC_UKA.pdf).
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About the Organizations
World Obesity Federation
The World Obesity Federation (World Obesity) is the only global organisation focused exclusively on obesity.
World Obesity represents stakeholders in high-, medium- and low-income countries, including experts, advocates, patients and practitioners. It is a lead partner to global agencies on obesity, including the World Health Organization (WHO) - with which it has formal consultative status. The World Obesity Federation takes a holistic view of obesity from cause and prevention to treatment.
World Obesity Federation strongly encourages journalists and editors to use people-first language and respectful images when reporting on obesity and overweight.
Health & Fitness Association
The Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA), a global community of industry leaders, is the only worldwide trade association providing a unified voice for the community of leaders who operate health and fitness facilities, offer professional guidance on physical activity, and provide the tools and equipment to do so to the millions of fitness facility members who understand that exercise improves their physical and mental health. Through advocacy, education, and research, the association speaks to opportunities, challenges, and changes that are moving the industry into a new era.
Founded in 1981, the association publishes a monthly magazine, Health & Fitness Business, and operates The HFA Show, the HFA European Congress, and the Fly-In and Advocacy Summit. The association also partners on events around the world, including Fitness Brasil, ChinaFit, MEFIT Summit and Wellness & Fitness LATAM. Follow the Health & Fitness Association on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.
AUSactive
AUSactive is Australia's peak body for the exercise and active health sector, and our goal is to activate Australians to move more. We do this through providing services, education and advocacy for exercise professionals, businesses and students. Our programs are designed to grow skills, businesses, and careers. We work with all stakeholders across the sector, driving the development of best practice, industry standards and continuing education to support our members so they are ready for emerging opportunities and rewarding careers. www.ausactive.org.au
Exercise New Zealand
Exercise New Zealand is the peak body representing the exercise industry in Aotearoa / New Zealand, who collectively bring the benefits of exercise to over half a million members, and contribute over $500 million to the NZ economy. We are committed to supporting the industry through advocacy, resources, standards and education.
Fitness Industry Council of Canada
The Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) is the non-profit trade association representing over 7,000 fitness facilities across Canada. As the unified voice of the Canadian fitness industry, FIC advocates for policies that promote physical activity and support the commercial viability of fitness providers. Our mission is to work with provincial and federal governments to improve the health of all Canadians by making fitness more accessible, professionalized, and integrated into the national physical activity and healthcare strategy.
ukactive
ukactive is the UK's trade body for the physical activity sector, bringing together more than 3,000 member organisations and partners in our shared ambition to get More People, More Active, More Often. From gyms, leisure centres, studios, sports bodies and other activity providers, to major health bodies, consumer brands, tech firms and equipment manufacturers, our community collaborates across the private, public and third sectors. ukactive facilitates high-impact partnerships, conceives and drives breakthrough campaigns, conducts critical research and lobbies the Government to recognise the power of the physical activity sector to address today's biggest issues - including reducing the burden on the NHS and social care, improving workforce health to grow the economy, revitalising our high streets, reducing crime, and tackling loneliness.
About WFSGI
The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) is the global, not-for-profit trade association for the sporting goods industry. WFSGI is officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the industry representative within the Olympic Movement. Our members comprise of sports and sports-inspired leisure brands, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, national/regional federations, industry and trade associations. This represents approximately 70% of the global industry by annual turnover. The purpose of the WFSGI is to unite and support the global sporting goods industry, and ensure a healthier, more active planet for all. www.wfsgi.org
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Original text here: https://www.healthandfitness.org/global-health-and-fitness-leaders-call-for-physical-activity-and-nutrition-to-be-central-to-obesity-medication-rollout/
[Category: Health Care]
American Humanist Association: Federal Judge Sides With Humanists on Monumental 10 Commandments Victory in Arkansas
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- The American Humanist Association issued the following news release on April 1, 2026:
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Federal Judge Sides With Humanists on Monumental 10 Commandments Victory in Arkansas
The American Humanist Association and its co-plaintiffs have secured a major First Amendment victory after a federal court has ruled that Arkansas' Ten Commandments monument at the State Capitol is unconstitutional and must be removed.
In a sweeping decision issued late Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Kristine G. Baker struck down the state law mandating the monument and ordered that it be taken down,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- The American Humanist Association issued the following news release on April 1, 2026:
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Federal Judge Sides With Humanists on Monumental 10 Commandments Victory in Arkansas
The American Humanist Association and its co-plaintiffs have secured a major First Amendment victory after a federal court has ruled that Arkansas' Ten Commandments monument at the State Capitol is unconstitutional and must be removed.
In a sweeping decision issued late Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Kristine G. Baker struck down the state law mandating the monument and ordered that it be taken down,concluding that both the law and the display violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
The ruling marks the culmination of nearly eight years of litigation brought by the American Humanist Association (AHA), The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), the Arkansas Society of Freethinkers, and a diverse group of Arkansas plaintiffs, alongside a parallel challenge by the ACLU of Arkansas. Separately, the Satanic Temple and its members had brought First Amendment and Equal Protection claims.
"Based on the undisputed record evidence," the court held, "the Display Act and the Ten Commandments Monument violate the Establishment Clause." The court further found that the state's actions failed to avoid "excessive government entanglement with religion" and that the monument was "discriminatory and coercive."
Arkansas lawmakers passed the Display Act in 2015, spearheaded by then-State Sen. Jason Rapert, to install a privately funded Ten Commandments monument on Capitol grounds. The monument was first installed in 2017, destroyed a day later, and replaced in 2018. Lawsuits followed immediately, challenging the display as an unconstitutional government endorsement of religion.
The court agreed, emphasizing both the inherently religious nature of the Ten Commandments and the state's clear preference for Christianity. Evidence showed that Arkansas officials rejected requests from non-Christian groups seeking equal access to place their own monuments, reinforcing the court's conclusion that the state engaged in unconstitutional religious favoritism.
The decision distinguishes Arkansas' display from monuments upheld in other contexts, noting that this stand-alone religious monument does not reflect a broader historical tradition but instead advances a specific religious message.
"We celebrate this monumental victory for true religious freedom," said American Humanist Association Legal Director Amitai Heller. "State capitals should be welcoming to all citizens, and this ruling rightfully rejects this effort to promote one specific set of religious beliefs above all others - including the right to not believe at all. This decision affirms the First Amendment's bedrock constitutional principle of church-state separation, which ensures these very freedoms."
"The state of Arkansas has no business telling citizens which gods to worship -- or whether to worship at all. The First Commandment is a direct violation of the First Amendment," says FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor. "We are delighted the court recognizes that placing a biblical monument at the seat of government violates one of our most fundamental constitutional protections."
FFRF Senior Counsel Sam Grover adds, "This ruling reaffirms that the government must remain neutral when it comes to religion. That neutrality is essential to protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their beliefs."
The plaintiffs in the case reflect a broad cross-section of Arkansans. Anne Orsi is an agnostic atheist. Eugene Levy is a rabbi. Gale Stewart is an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A.. Teresa Gryder is a Wiccan. All of them have the necessity and occasion to visit the Capitol grounds regularly, and come into contact with the biblical monolith.
The order to remove the monument is stayed pending appeal.
Attorney Gerry Schulze of Little Rock, alongside attorneys from the AHA and FFRF, represented the plaintiffs.
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The American Humanist Association (AHA) works to protect the rights of humanists, atheists, and other nontheistic Americans. The AHA advances the ethical and life-affirming worldview of humanism, which--without beliefs in gods or other supernatural forces--encourages individuals to live informed and meaningful lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.
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Original text here: https://americanhumanist.org/featured/federal-judge-sides-with-humanists-on-monumental-10-commandments-victory-in-arkansas/
[Category: Sociological]
AXPC Submits Comments Supporting BLM's Swift Action to Broadly Expand Commingling Efforts on Federal Lands
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- The American Exploration and Production Council issued the following news release on April 1, 2026:
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AXPC Submits Comments Supporting BLM's Swift Action to Broadly Expand Commingling Efforts on Federal Lands
Yesterday, the American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) submitted comments to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on the agency's proposed rule to broadly expand commingling on federal lands. The comments commend Secretary Burgum and BLM for moving swiftly to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) while urging targeted revisions to ensure the
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- The American Exploration and Production Council issued the following news release on April 1, 2026:
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AXPC Submits Comments Supporting BLM's Swift Action to Broadly Expand Commingling Efforts on Federal Lands
Yesterday, the American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) submitted comments to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on the agency's proposed rule to broadly expand commingling on federal lands. The comments commend Secretary Burgum and BLM for moving swiftly to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) while urging targeted revisions to ensure thefinal rule delivers oil and natural gas development efficiencies, increased royalty-generating production, and significant environmental benefits.
"Expanding commingling on federal lands is one of the most effective tools available to BLM to advance President Trump's energy dominance agenda, and AXPC commends Secretary Burgum for prioritizing this important rulemaking," said AXPC CEO Anne Bradbury. "With targeted technical improvements, the final rule will enable operators to efficiently consolidate production facilities, reduce capital costs, and extend production of federal mineral acreage that might otherwise be uneconomic to continue. We look forward to working with BLM to finalize this rule and deliver win-win benefits for taxpayers, the environment, and American energy development."
Read the full comment letter here (https://axpc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AXPC-Commingling-Cmts.pdf).
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Original text here: https://axpc.org/education-resource/axpc-submits-comments-supporting-blms-swift-action-to-broadly-expand-commingling-efforts-on-federal-lands/
[Category: Energy]
