Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
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Optica: Researchers unlock scalable control of quantum light signals
WASHINGTON, June 19 [Category: Medical] -- Optica, formerly the Optical Society, posted the following news release:
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Researchers unlock scalable control of quantum light signals
New approach could enable precise manipulation of information carried in different frequencies of light, supporting highly parallel processing on photonic chips
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Researchers have discovered a new, highly scalable way to control quantum information carried in different frequencies, or wavelengths, of light. The advance brings frequency-domain quantum information processing -a promising approach to photonic quantum
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WASHINGTON, June 19 [Category: Medical] -- Optica, formerly the Optical Society, posted the following news release:
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Researchers unlock scalable control of quantum light signals
New approach could enable precise manipulation of information carried in different frequencies of light, supporting highly parallel processing on photonic chips
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Researchers have discovered a new, highly scalable way to control quantum information carried in different frequencies, or wavelengths, of light. The advance brings frequency-domain quantum information processing -a promising approach to photonic quantumcomputing -closer to practical implementation.
"The appeal of frequency encoding for quantum computing is that, in theory, hundreds of channels of information can run through a single, on-chip waveguide, allowing certain operations to be performed completely in parallel," said Nils T. Otterstrom from Sandia National Laboratories. "However, scaling up reconfigurable optical processors for frequency encoding has been extremely challenging, particularly on chip."
In the Optica Publishing Group journal Optica Quantum, Otterstrom and Joseph M. Lukens from Purdue University describe and computationally validate their new approach, which uses acousto-optic frequency beamsplitters to split light into different frequencies within the same waveguide. The work represents an important step toward photonic chips that provide a highly scalable way to process quantum information, which could ultimately lead to computers that help tackle complex problems in chemistry, materials science and secure communications.
"By combining state-of-the-art integrated photonics with new quantum information processing concepts, this approach makes it possible for quantum information to be encoded in frequencies of light," said Lukens. "This allows hundreds of frequency channels to be carried in a single waveguide, greatly increasing the amount of information that can be processed in a compact chip-based system."
Scaling up quantum systems
Otterstrom, who specializes in integrated photonics, and Lukens, an expert in quantum frequency encoding, have a long-standing collaboration focused on developing frequency domain quantum information processing in an integrated photonics platform -a system that generates, manipulates and detects light on a single microchip.
In this new work, they tackled the challenge of manipulating an individual frequency-encoded channel among the hundreds running through a single, on-chip waveguide. Previous technologies have addressed this goal by breaking the channels into many separate waveguides during processing, but this makes it impractical to scale up frequency-based photonic quantum computers.
"We were able to build on Joe's ideas and transform them into programs here at Sandia National Laboratories, where we have the facilities to build photonic systems using standard microelectronics fabrication processes," said Otterstrom. "We have been exploring how technology developed here, particularly in acousto-optics, could be applied to frequency-domain quantum information processing."
Acousto-optic modulators convert electric fields into acoustic vibrations, which then change the frequency of light passing through them. Although these devices are available commercially, they are large, require precise alignment and lack customizability.
Solving the complexity barrier
"Early on, I recognized that acousto-optic modulators could be useful for frequency processing but thought they would be extremely complicated and had dismissed them as not practical," said Lukens. "Then I found out that because of the work that had been done at Sandia on integrating acousto-optic modulators onto a chip, all the problems and difficulties I was worried about had in many ways been solved."
Drawing on this work, the researchers designed integrated acousto-optic frequency beamsplitters that make it possible to perform scalable operations while splitting frequencies into only two waveguides, regardless of the number of channels. This allows quantum information to be encoded in frequency rather than the more traditional methods of using spatial paths or polarization states.
The researchers used modeling to test their new approach for controlling frequency-encoded states of light. The results showed that it is feasible to achieve high-fidelity quantum operations using existing integrated photonics technology, demonstrating the possibility of parallel operations that achieve 100% bandwidth utilization.
Over the past five to six years of developing intermodal acousto-optic devices, the researchers have demonstrated near-100% mode and frequency conversion with minimal propagation loss as well as the ability to achieve both broadband and narrowband operation. These results point toward the feasibility of implementing this full quantum information processing paradigm in integrated photonics.
Paper : J. M. Lukens, J. H. Dallyn, H.-H. Lu, N. I. Wasserbeck, A. J. Graf, M. Gehl, P. S. Davids, N. T. Otterstrom, "A paradigm for universal quantum information processing with integrated acousto-optic frequency beam splitters," 4, 295-304 (2026).
DOI: 10.1364/OPTICAQ.592034.
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About Optica Publishing Group
Optica Publishing Group is a division of the society, Optica, Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide. It publishes the largest collection of peer-reviewed and most-cited content in optics and photonics, including 19 prestigious journals, the society's flagship member magazine, and papers and videos from over 1200 conferences. With over 520,000 journal articles, conference papers and videos to search, discover and access, its publications portfolio represents the full range of research in the field from around the globe.
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Original text here: https://www.optica.org/about/newsroom/news_releases/2026/researchers_unlock_scalable_control_of_quantum_light_signals/
Emmy Winners Liza Colon-Zayas and Jeff Hiller to Announce 78th Emmy Awards Nominations July 8
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Television Academy issued the following news release on June 18, 2026:
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Emmy Winners Liza Colon-Zayas and Jeff Hiller to Announce 78th Emmy Awards Nominations July 8
Ceremony to Stream Live from the Wolf Theatre in the Academy's Saban Media Center
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The Television Academy announced today that nominations for the 78th Emmy Awards will be presented by Emmy winners Liza Colon-Zayas (The Bear) and Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere) at a ceremony slated for Wednesday, July 8, at 8:30 a.m. PDT/11:30 a.m. EDT. The ceremony will stream live from the Academy's Wolf Theatre
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WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Television Academy issued the following news release on June 18, 2026:
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Emmy Winners Liza Colon-Zayas and Jeff Hiller to Announce 78th Emmy Awards Nominations July 8
Ceremony to Stream Live from the Wolf Theatre in the Academy's Saban Media Center
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The Television Academy announced today that nominations for the 78th Emmy Awards will be presented by Emmy winners Liza Colon-Zayas (The Bear) and Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere) at a ceremony slated for Wednesday, July 8, at 8:30 a.m. PDT/11:30 a.m. EDT. The ceremony will stream live from the Academy's Wolf Theatreon Emmys.com/nominations.
Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego will host the nominations ceremony. "This year's submissions reflect the undiminished creative range and vitality of our medium, celebrating both emerging talent and beloved creative voices who are shaping the future of the industry," said Abrego. "We are thrilled to acknowledge these artists and storytellers whose work matters so deeply to audiences around the world. I'm delighted to welcome Liza and Jeff to usher in another exceptional Emmy celebration."
Liza Colon-Zayas received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2024 for her role in the critically acclaimed series The Bear, making history as the first Latina to be awarded an Emmy in this category. She has also received a SAG Award and two Imagen Awards for the role and was nominated for a Golden Globe and Critics Choice award.
This summer, Colon-Zayas will star in the fifth and final season of The Bear as well as in the blockbuster film Spider-Man: Brand New Day, opposite Tom Holland. She recently wrapped production on the indie drama Fleur with Halle Berry.
Colon-Zayas is a proud member of the acclaimed LAByrinth Theater Company and is a Drama Desk, OBIE, Lucille Lortel, AUDELCO, Outer Critics Circle, HOLA and Kingsley Award winner for her stage work.
Jeff Hiller is an actor and comedian who received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2025 for his role in Somebody Somewhere.
He appeared in two seasons of American Horror Stories and can be seen this season in Widow's Bay and Stumble, in addition to guest starring roles on Pluribus and Elsbeth. His other television credits include: 30 Rock, Ugly Betty, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Broad City and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.
In addition to publishing his memoir, "Actress of a Certain Age," in 2025, Jeff recently wrapped the run of his one-man show Jeff Hiller is Basic. Hiller has performed improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in NYC in Asssscat and Raaaatscraps.
He has appeared on Broadway (Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson; Urinetown), off-Broadway (Bright Colors and Bold Patterns; Silence!; Heartbreak House) and in Shakespeare in the Park (A Midsummer Night's Dream; Love's Labour's Lost). His film credits include Greta, Set It Up, Morning Glory and Ghost Town.
The 78th Emmy Awards will broadcast live coast-to-coast on Monday, Sept. 14, (8:00-11:00 p.m. EDT/5:00-8:00 p.m. PDT) on NBC and stream live on Peacock. The Creative Arts Emmy Awards will take place on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026.
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Original text here: https://www.televisionacademy.com/features/news/awards-news/260618-emmy-nominations-announcement
[Category: Entertainment Industry]
ELFA and the Secured Finance Network Joint Statement on Proposed Basel III Regulatory Capital Rule
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association issued the following news release:
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ELFA and the Secured Finance Network Joint Statement on Proposed Basel III Regulatory Capital Rule
In separate comment letters submitted this week to Federal bank regulatory agencies, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) and the Secured Finance Network (SFNet) urged the agencies to consider additional recommendations to the proposed Basel III rulemaking to preserve the critical role of asset-based lending in financing businesses and driving U.S. economic activity.
The
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WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association issued the following news release:
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ELFA and the Secured Finance Network Joint Statement on Proposed Basel III Regulatory Capital Rule
In separate comment letters submitted this week to Federal bank regulatory agencies, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) and the Secured Finance Network (SFNet) urged the agencies to consider additional recommendations to the proposed Basel III rulemaking to preserve the critical role of asset-based lending in financing businesses and driving U.S. economic activity.
Thecomments were submitted to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), in response to the jointly proposed revised rulemaking modernizing regulatory capital requirements.
As organizations representing a broad range of financial institutions, including banks, specialty finance providers, and other commercial finance market participants, ELFA and SFNet share a commitment to maintaining a safe and sound banking system. Both associations expressed appreciation for the agencies' work on this revised proposal and the extended comment period, while advocating for the agencies to address three primary areas of concern to preserve asset-based loans that provide vital working capital to U.S. small and medium-sized businesses:
* Changes to credit conversion factors for commitments
* The newly proposed definition of a "commitment"
* The need to recognize the value of non-financial collateral, such as receivables, inventory, and marketable equipment, in determining capital requirements
The asset-based lending, equipment finance, factoring, and secured finance sectors play a critical role in providing capital to businesses of all sizes. This financing, secured by assets such as receivables, inventory, and equipment, is particularly important for middle-market companies and businesses operating in cyclical industries which was reflected in both letters. Extending credit based on the value of collateral rather than solely on a borrower's cash flow or earnings has proven to be a dependable source of capital, particularly during economic downturns when traditional sources of credit may become constrained.
ELFA and SFNet stand ready to offer further input, particularly if the agencies commit to collecting additional data on non-financial collateral and, following that assessment, addressing the true value and risks of underlying credit exposures.
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About ELFA
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA) represents financial services companies and manufacturers in the $1.3 trillion U.S. equipment finance sector. ELFA's over 600 member companies provide essential financing that helps businesses acquire the equipment they need to operate and grow. Learn how equipment finance contributes to businesses' success, U.S. economic growth, manufacturing and jobs at www.elfaonline.org.
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About Secured Finance Network
Founded in 1944, the Secured Finance Network is an international trade association connecting the interests of companies and professionals who deliver and enable secured financing to businesses. With more than 1,000 member organizations throughout the US, Europe, Canada and around the world, SFNet brings together the people, data, knowledge, tools and insights that put capital to work. For more information, please visit SFNet.com.
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Original text here: https://www.elfaonline.org/newsroom/elfa-and-the-secured-finance-network-joint-statement-on-proposed-basel-iii-regulatory-capital-rule
[Category: Facilities Management]
CMA Statement on the Passage of the 2026-27 Budget and Health Budget Trailer Bill
SACRAMENTO, California, June 19 -- The California Medical Association issued the following statement on June 18, 2026:
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CMA statement on the passage of the 2026-27 budget and health budget trailer bill
In response to the passage of the 2026-27 state budget and accompanying health budget trailer bill, California Medical Association (CMA) President Rene Bravo, M.D., issued the following the statement:
"As physicians, we see every day how difficult it is for patients to afford healthcare. Many families are often forced to forgo coverage completely to save money for other basic expenses. The
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SACRAMENTO, California, June 19 -- The California Medical Association issued the following statement on June 18, 2026:
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CMA statement on the passage of the 2026-27 budget and health budget trailer bill
In response to the passage of the 2026-27 state budget and accompanying health budget trailer bill, California Medical Association (CMA) President Rene Bravo, M.D., issued the following the statement:
"As physicians, we see every day how difficult it is for patients to afford healthcare. Many families are often forced to forgo coverage completely to save money for other basic expenses. Theexpiration of Obamacare tax credits has already led to steep premium increases and enrollment drops, and the full implementation of H. R. 1 will lead to further massive coverage losses, with more than 2.5 million Medi-Cal enrollees and 660,000 Covered California participants expected to lose coverage.
"At a time when the consequences of federal actions are already being felt across the state, it is deeply concerning that California has enacted a budget that will make health care coverage even more expensive.
"Today's passed budget and accompanying trailer bill includes a $1.5 billion tax increase that will be passed on to Californians through higher health insurance premiums--as high as $400 more a year for a family of four. Raising health insurance premiums to help balance the state budget is simply robbing Peter to pay Paul. It will only make it harder for families to keep coverage and get the care they need.
"While the Legislature made important progress protecting key programs and delaying some of the most harmful proposed cuts, increasing premiums so significantly will compound the financial pressures facing California families and further erode access to affordable healthcare.
"There is no shortage of external threats to the health of Californians, from devastating federal cuts to misguided and destructive ballot measures. Unfortunately, this budget adds yet another obstacle by making healthcare less affordable for the very people it is meant to serve."
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Original text here: https://www.cmadocs.org/newsroom/news/view/ArticleId/51221/CMA-statement-on-the-passage-of-the-2026-27-budget-and-health-budget-trailer-bill
[Category: Medical]
Airlines for America Announces Marco Sylvester as Senior Vice President, International Affairs
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- Airlines for America issued the following news:
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Airlines for America Announces Marco Sylvester as Senior Vice President, International Affairs
Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, announced that Marco Sylvester has joined the organization as Senior Vice President of International Affairs.
In this role, Sylvester will lead A4A's international policy strategy and engagement, working with global stakeholders to advance the priorities of U.S. airlines and promote a safe, competitive and sustainable international
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WASHINGTON, June 19 -- Airlines for America issued the following news:
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Airlines for America Announces Marco Sylvester as Senior Vice President, International Affairs
Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, announced that Marco Sylvester has joined the organization as Senior Vice President of International Affairs.
In this role, Sylvester will lead A4A's international policy strategy and engagement, working with global stakeholders to advance the priorities of U.S. airlines and promote a safe, competitive and sustainable internationalaviation system.
"Marco brings a deep understanding of both transportation policy and international affairs at a pivotal moment for our industry," said A4A President and CEO Gov. Chris Sununu. "His experience across government and the private sector will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for policies that further strengthens U.S. aviation leadership around the world."
Sylvester most recently served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, where he led international aviation negotiations and worked closely with foreign governments to advance U.S. transportation interests.
Previously, he was a Senior Policy Advisor at Venable LLP, advising clients across the transportation sector, including airlines and emerging transportation technology companies. Earlier in his career, Sylvester served as Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff in the Office of the Secretary of Transportation at the U.S. Department of Transportation and as a Legislative Assistant to Congressman Robert Pittenger, where he managed the transportation and foreign affairs portfolio.
Sylvester is originally from West Hartford, Connecticut, and holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Northeastern University.
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Original text here: https://www.airlines.org/news-update/airlines-for-america-announces-marco-sylvester-as-senior-vice-president-international-affairs/
[Category: Transportation]
AICPA Requests Adjustments, Provides Recommendations on IRS Issuance of CP53E Notices to Taxpayers
NEW YORK, June 19 -- The American Institute of CPAs issued the following news release:
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AICPA Requests Adjustments, Provides Recommendations on IRS Issuance of CP53E Notices to Taxpayers
Washington, D.C. - During the recent tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sent over 3 million CP53E notices to taxpayers - a notice that is issued by the IRS when a taxpayer is owed a refund but must provide or correct direct deposit information before the IRS will release it. The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) submitted a letter to the IRS providing recommendations to improve the IRS's
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NEW YORK, June 19 -- The American Institute of CPAs issued the following news release:
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AICPA Requests Adjustments, Provides Recommendations on IRS Issuance of CP53E Notices to Taxpayers
Washington, D.C. - During the recent tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sent over 3 million CP53E notices to taxpayers - a notice that is issued by the IRS when a taxpayer is owed a refund but must provide or correct direct deposit information before the IRS will release it. The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) submitted a letter to the IRS providing recommendations to improve the IRS'suse of CP53E notices to implement Executive Order 14247 (EO 14247), Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts.
The issuance of these notices has caused significant confusion to taxpayers and their practitioners regarding the purpose of the notices, the status of refunds, and the steps needed to resolve the notices. Failure to provide direct deposit information was the most straightforward reason for receiving a CP53E notice, but taxpayers also received notices when they:
* Requested overpayments be applied to the following tax year.
* Filed a return indicating either no balance due or balance due to the IRS.
* Provided valid direct deposit information.
Taxpayers not expecting a refund were particularly confused, since such notices did not provide any explanation. Some unexpected notices were properly issued due to tax return adjustments resulting in refunds, but others may have been issued erroneously. In many instances, the reason for issuing a CP53E notice to taxpayers requesting that overpayments be credited to the following tax year remains unclear.
Additionally, EO 14247 provided that the electronic payment and refund requirement would include exceptions for certain categories of taxpayers, including individuals without access to banking services or electronic payments and other circumstances as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury. Regulations have not been issued providing a list of these exceptions or properly defining the categories of taxpayers eligible for such exceptions.
The AICPA has recommended that the IRS:
1. Issue further guidance clarifying the reasons that a CP53E notice would be issued, indicating whether taxpayer action is needed in each circumstance and explaining the IRS's limitations when using direct deposit information.
2. Review the criteria for issuing a CP53E notice to eliminate erroneous notices.
3. Establish a process to request an exception from the direct deposit requirement prior to filing the return, such as adding a checkbox to income tax returns to allow taxpayers to self-identify as an excepted taxpayer.
4. Publish and define all categories of excepted taxpayers in regulations or other guidance.
5. Implement policies to prevent the issuance of CP53E notices to taxpayers that qualify for a paper refund check exception in prior tax years.
"The recommendations provided by the AICPA, coupled with increasing public outreach, will help reduce confusion and protect taxpayers who are exempt from the electronic refund requirement," said Daniel Hauffe, AICPA Senior Manager, Tax Policy and Advocacy. "If implemented prior to the October 15 extended filing deadline, these changes could serve to reduce the administrative burden on the IRS and provide clarity to taxpayers and their advisors."
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About the American Institute of CPAs
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is the world's largest member association representing the CPA profession, with a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education, and consulting. A founding member of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession, attestation standards, and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, partners across the profession to build future talent, and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance, and quality of the profession.
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Original text here: https://www.aicpa-cima.com/news/article/aicpa-requests-adjustments-provides-recommendations-on-irs-issuance-of-cp53e-notices-to-taxpayers
[Category: Accounting]
ABA-led Coalition Supports Great American Outdoors Act
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The American Bus Association issued the following news:
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ABA-led Coalition Supports Great American Outdoors Act
ABA and industry partners call on lawmakers to protect commercial tour access, reject harmful new passenger fees, and require stronger national reporting on park-based commercial activity.
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Last week, the American Bus Association led a coalition letter of industry partners, including the International Inbound Travel Association (IITA), National Tour Association (NTA), and U.S. Travel Association (USTA), to policymakers regarding the ongoing development
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WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The American Bus Association issued the following news:
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ABA-led Coalition Supports Great American Outdoors Act
ABA and industry partners call on lawmakers to protect commercial tour access, reject harmful new passenger fees, and require stronger national reporting on park-based commercial activity.
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Last week, the American Bus Association led a coalition letter of industry partners, including the International Inbound Travel Association (IITA), National Tour Association (NTA), and U.S. Travel Association (USTA), to policymakers regarding the ongoing developmentof the Great American Outdoors Act 250 (HR 9250) - legislation intended to improve access and infrastructure across the nation's public lands system.
The letter reaffirmed the industry's commitment to ensuring that national parks remain accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for future generations, as well as our understanding of the need to generate revenue to fund key infrastructure investments, but raised concerns over the inclusion of non-resident visitor fees on commercial tour passengers and the need to include language that would ensure annual national reporting on commercial activity across the national park system.
America's public lands are among our nation's greatest assets, and investments that improve visitor experiences, preserve natural resources, and address deferred maintenance challenges are critical. While we understand the need to raise revenue to fund this important work, proposals to expand per-passenger non-resident or commercial entrance fees as a funding mechanism would negatively impact commercial tour operators, visitors, and gateway communities that depend on tourism.
Early engagement with committee staff, policymakers, and stakeholders has already resulted in the successful removal of draft language that would have drastically increased commercial tour fees, posing serious challenges to tour operators and their passengers. This was a significant victory for our members and helped prevent additional costs from being placed on commercial tour operators who facilitate access to our national parks for millions of visitors each year.
In addition to opposing new fee structures, ABA continues to encourage policymakers to incorporate language directing the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct annual, systemwide reporting on commercial tour activity across the NPS. Reliable and consistent nationwide data regarding commercial visitation, transportation patterns, economic impact, and visitor access is essential to inform policymaking. Such reporting would provide Congress, park managers, and stakeholders with valuable information to better understand visitation trends, evaluate policy outcomes, and support future decision-making regarding commercial access and park operations.
The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, which has jurisdiction over the bill, is voting on the legislation this week, marking a key procedural milestone that will tee it up for a vote before the full Senate. ABA remains actively engaged with both committees and key congressional offices and will continue to monitor developments, advocate for policies that protect our members, and ensure the voice of the commercial tour and motorcoach industry remains part of the conversation as this legislation moves forward.
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Original text here: https://www.buses.org/news/aba-led-coalition-supports-great-american-outdoors-act/
[Category: Transportation]
