CHRISTOPHER VEST

Issue #1: Advocated in favor of The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act, reintroduced in the 118th Congress by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mike Braun (R-IN) and Reps. Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA). The bill would allow individuals across the country to use their 529 education savings plans to cover the costs of certain workforce training and credentialing programs. ASAE is a founding member of the Professional Certification Coalition, which represents more than 100 organizations. Issue #2: Supported the Department of Labors proposed rulemaking on overtime rule that raises the minimum wage and implements overtime pay requirements. Issue #3: Advocated for HR 2621 Honoring Vocational Education Act.

Advocated that Senate leaders make an institutional commitment to increasing congressional staff diversity by establishing a bipartisan Senate Diversity and Inclusion Office.

Advocated for policies identifying inbound travel as an economic priority, including urging the U.S. Department of State to take steps to greatly reduce visitor visa wait times to facilitate international business travel to the U.S.

Advocated that Senate leaders make an institutional commitment to increasing congressional staff diversity by establishing a bipartisan Senate Diversity and Inclusion Office.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) was introduced July 21 by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI). Co-sponsors include Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX); Rick Allen (R-GA), Republican Leader of the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions; and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Republican Leader of the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Advocated that Senate leaders make an institutional commitment to increasing congressional staff diversity by establishing a bipartisan Senate Diversity and Inclusion Office.

Advocated in favor of The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339) that would allow individuals across the country to use their 529 education savings plans to cover the costs of certain workforce training and credentialing programs.

Advocated in favor of legislation to create a federal backstop that will help cover losses resulting from a future pandemic or public health emergency. The Pandemic Risk Insurance Act was reintroduced in November 2021 by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and would direct insurers to provide pandemic coverage for event cancellation losses, among other important provisions.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) was introduced July 21 by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI). Co-sponsors include Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX); Rick Allen (R-GA), Republican Leader of the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions; and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Republican Leader of the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act (H.R. 1346) that would stimulate the economy by providing a temporary business tax credit to revitalize business meetings and conferences; a temporarily restored entertainment business expense deduction; an individual tax credit to stimulate non-business travel; and tax relief for restaurants and food and beverage companies to help restore food service jobs.

Advocated in favor of legislation to create a federal backstop that will help cover losses resulting from a future pandemic or public health emergency. The Pandemic Risk Insurance Act was reintroduced in November 2021 by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and would direct insurers to provide pandemic coverage for event cancellation losses, among other important provisions.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) was introduced July 21 by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI). Co-sponsors include Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX); Rick Allen (R-GA), Republican Leader of the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions; and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Republican Leader of the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Advocated in favor of legislation to create a federal backstop that will help cover losses resulting from a future pandemic or public health emergency. The Pandemic Risk Insurance Act was introduced in 2020 by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and would direct insurers to provide pandemic coverage for event cancellation losses, among other important provisions.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) was introduced July 21 by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI). Co-sponsors include Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX); Rick Allen (R-GA), Republican Leader of the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions; and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Republican Leader of the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Advocated for guidance implementing the 2020 year-end COVID-19 stimulus law (H.R. 133) that would enable as many deserving 501(c)(6) organizations as possible to access relief programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Requested that SBA define 501(c)(6) lobbying receipts as revenue generated by the nonprofit for the express purpose of financing lobbying activities; define lobbying activities under the same parameters set by the Lobbying Disclosure Act; and clarify that the timeframe for PPP qualifying conditions should be the most recent tax year that ended prior to February 15, 2020. Advocated that Congress expand eligibility for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to include most Section 501(c) nonprofit organizations, not just 501(c)(3)s and 501(c)(6) entities. (H.R. 1319) Advocated that Congress extend the deadline for applying for a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to May 31.

Advocated that Congress include funding for temporary COBRA continuation coverage in the next COVID relief package. The requested action by Congress would help recently unemployed or furloughed Americans affected by the pandemic keep their employment-based health coverage while the nation continues to weather this unprecedented public health and economic crisis. Advocated in favor of The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339) that would allow individuals across the country to use their 529 education savings plans to cover the costs of certain workforce training and credentialing programs.

Advocated in favor of the Pandemic Risk Insurance Act of 2020 (H.R. 7011), which would establish a system of shared public and private compensation for business interruption losses and event cancellations resulting from future pandemics or public health emergencies.

Advocated in favor of Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339), a bipartisan bill to expand use of 529 savings accounts to pay for workforce training and credentialing programs; Advocated in favor of the Skills Renewal Act (H.R. 7031/S. 3779), which would provide Americans who have been laid-off or furloughed due to COVID-19 a $4,000 tax credit to pursue post-secondary skills training and career development. ASAE supports amendments to the Skills Renewal Act proposed by the Professional Certification Coalition (of which ASAE is a co-founder and Steering Committee member) ensuring that the tax credit is available for use with a wide range of reputable national certification programs and for expenses associated with testing required to obtain and/or maintain a postsecondary credential.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated for repeal of nonprofit excise tax on executive compensation in excess of $1 million. ASAE also requested that the Treasury Department issue guidance establishing a grandfather rule for tax-exempt entities that applies to amounts paid pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect prior to Nov. 3, 2017. This would mirror the grandfather clause included in the tax law for executive compensation contracts of publicly held corporations.

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans (S. 1170, Association Health Plans Act of 2019). Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor in 2018.

Advocated in favor of expanding eligibility for the Paycheck Protection Program to include 501(c)(6) associations. PPP was established by the CARES Act; also advocated for separate legislation, H.R. 6697, The Local Chamber, Tourism and 501(c)(6) Protection Act"; also advocated for provisions in the HEROES Act that expand access to PPP for all 501(c) organizations. Advocated for H.R. 133, which passed both the House and Senate in December and expanded PPP access to 501(c)(6) entities meeting certain conditions.

Advocated in favor of Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339), a bipartisan bill to expand use of 529 savings accounts to pay for workforce training and credentialing programs; Advocated in favor of the Skills Renewal Act (H.R. 7031/S. 3779), which would provide Americans who have been laid-off or furloughed due to COVID-19 a $4,000 tax credit to pursue post-secondary skills training and career development. ASAE supports amendments to the Skills Renewal Act proposed by the Professional Certification Coalition (of which ASAE is a co-founder and Steering Committee member) ensuring that the tax credit is available for use with a wide range of reputable national certification programs and for expenses associated with testing required to obtain and/or maintain a postsecondary credential.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated in favor of the Pandemic Risk Insurance Act of 2020 (H.R. 7011), which would establish a system of shared public and private compensation for business interruption losses and event cancellations resulting from future pandemics or public health emergencies.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated for 501(c)(6) eligibility for COVID-19 relief programs established in the CARES Act (H.R. 748), including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP); Advocated against budgetary restrictions on government employees attending mission-related association conferences.

Advocated as part of a travel industry coalition in favor of legislation and policies to promote inbound travel to the U.S. and mitigate damage to the travel and tourism industry brought on by COVID-19.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans (S. 1170, Association Health Plans Act of 2019). Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor in 2018.

Advocated in favor of the Pandemic Risk Insurance Act of 2020 (H.R. 7011), which would establish a system of shared public and private compensation for business interruption losses and event cancellations resulting from future pandemics or public health emergencies.

Advocated in favor of expanding eligibility for the Paycheck Protection Program to include 501(c)(6) associations. PPP was established by the CARES Act; also advocated for separate legislation, H.R. 6697, The Local Chamber, Tourism and 501(c)(6) Protection Act"; also advocated for provisions in the HEROES Act that expand access to PPP for all 501(c) organizations.

Advocated in favor of Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339), a bipartisan bill to expand use of 529 savings accounts to pay for workforce training and credentialing programs; Advocated in favor of the Skills Renewal Act (H.R. 7031/S. 3779), which would provide Americans who have been laid-off or furloughed due to COVID-19 a $4,000 tax credit to pursue post-secondary skills training and career development. ASAE supports amendments to the Skills Renewal Act proposed by the Professional Certification Coalition (of which ASAE is a co-founder and Steering Committee member) ensuring that the tax credit is available for use with a wide range of reputable national certification programs and for expenses associated with testing required to obtain and/or maintain a postsecondary credential.

Advocated as part of the Visit U.S. Coalition in favor of legislation and policies to promote inbound travel to the U.S., including the reauthorization of Brand USA funding (S. 2203, Brand USA Extension Act), signed into law Dec. 20, 2019.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated in favor of associations, including 501(c)(6) trade and professional organizations, to be included in the Paycheck Protection Program to provide assistance for associations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated as part of the Visit U.S. Coalition in favor of legislation and policies to promote inbound travel to the U.S., including the reauthorization of Brand USA funding.

Advocated in favor of Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act (H.R. 5339), a bipartisan bill to expand use of 529 savings accounts to pay for workforce training and credentialing programs.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated for repeal of unrelated business income tax on fringe benefits provided by tax-exempt organizations to employees (enacted as part of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). Advocated for repeal of nonprofit excise tax on executive compensation in excess of $1 million. ASAE also requested that the Treasury Department issue guidance establishing a grandfather rule for tax-exempt entities that applies to amounts paid pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect prior to Nov. 3, 2017. This would mirror the grandfather clause included in the tax law for executive compensation contracts of publicly held corporations.

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans. Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor in 2018.

Advocated against budgetary restrictions on government employees attending mission-related association conferences.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated for repeal of unrelated business income tax on fringe benefits provided by tax-exempt organizations to employees (enacted as part of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). Advocated for repeal of nonprofit excise tax on executive compensation in excess of $1 million. ASAE also requested that the Treasury Department issue guidance establishing a grandfather rule for tax-exempt entities that applies to amounts paid pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect prior to Nov. 3, 2017. This would mirror the grandfather clause included in the tax law for executive compensation contracts of publicly held corporations.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated against budgetary restrictions on government employees attending mission-related association conferences.

Advocated as part of the Visit U.S. Coalition in favor of legislation and policies to promote inbound travel to the U.S., including the reauthorization of Brand USA funding.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans. Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor last year.

Advocated against budgetary restrictions on government employees attending mission-related association conferences.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated for repeal of unrelated business income tax on fringe benefits provided by tax-exempt organizations to employees (enacted as part of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). Advocated for repeal of nonprofit excise tax on executive compensation in excess of $1 million. ASAE also requested that the Treasury Department issue guidance establishing a grandfather rule for tax-exempt entities that applies to amounts paid pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect prior to Nov. 3, 2017. This would mirror the grandfather clause included in the tax law for executive compensation contracts of publicly held corporations.

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans. Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor last year.

Advocated for repeal of unrelated business income tax on fringe benefits provided by tax-exempt organizations to employees (enacted as part of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). Advocated for repeal of nonprofit excise tax on executive compensation in excess of $1 million. ASAE also requested that the Treasury Department issue guidance establishing a grandfather rule for tax-exempt entities that applies to amounts paid pursuant to a written binding contract that was in effect prior to Nov. 3, 2017. This would mirror the grandfather clause included in the tax law for executive compensation contracts of publicly held corporations.

Advocated against budgetary restrictions on government employees attending mission-related association conferences.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated in favor of reasonable increase in the salary threshold for overtime eligibility. ASAE supports the DOL proposed overtime rule issued in March 2019 that intends to raise the annual minimum salary requirements for the FLSAs white collar (executive, administrative, and professional) overtime exemptions to $35,308 ($679 per week), up from the current annual minimum of $23,660 ($455 per week).

Advocating in favor of legislation to strengthen Association Health Plans. Supported final rule expanding AHPs issued by Department of Labor last year.

Advocated in favor of legislation to reform the US Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE believes exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in nonprofit organizations that receive tax-deductible donations.

Advocated for a delay and additional guidance/changes to provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act dealing with siloing of unrelated business income tax (UBIT) and transportation and parking "fringe" benefits. Also advocated for legislation and/or regulatory guidance grandfathering tax-exempt organizations from the excise tax on executive compensation over $1 million.

Advocated against restrictions on government agency attendance at mission-related association conferences.

Advocated in favor of full repeal of the Cadillac tax, a 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health care plans that is set to take effect in 2020 as part of the Affordable Care Act. Advocated in favor of legislative language to strengthen Association Health Plans (AHPs). Submitted comments to Department of Labor on proposal to expand AHPs. Supported final rule on AHPs issued by DOL in June.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE argues exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in organizations that receive tax-deductible contributions.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Worked with the Visit U.S. Coalition to urge the administration to take steps to reverse the downward trajectory of inbound travel to the U.S. Advocated against the State Department's proposal to heighten scrutiny of visa applicants' social media histories.

Advocated against restrictions on government agency attendance at mission-related association conferences.

Advocated for a delay and additional guidance/changes to provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act dealing with siloing of unrelated business income tax (UBIT) and transportation and parking "fringe" benefits. Also advocated for legislation grandfathering tax-exempt organizations from the excise tax on executive compensation over $1 million.

Advocated against restrictions on government agency attendance at mission-related association conferences.

Advocated for a delay and additional guidance/changes to provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act dealing with siloing of unrelated business income tax (UBIT) and transportation and parking "fringe" benefits. Also advocated for legislation grandfathering tax-exempt organizations from the excise tax on executive compensation over $1 million.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE argues exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in organizations that receive tax-deductible contributions.

Advocated in favor of full repeal of the Cadillac tax, a 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health care plans that is set to take effect in 2020 as part of the Affordable Care Act. Advocated in favor of legislative language to strengthen Association Health Plans (AHPs). Submitted comments to Department of Labor on proposal to expand AHPs. Supported final rule on AHPs issued by DOL in June.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated against restrictions on government agency attendance at mission-related association conferences.

Advocated in favor of full repeal of the Cadillac tax, a 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health care plans that is set to take effect in 2020 as part of the Affordable Care Act. Advocated in favor of legislative language to strengthen Association Health Plans (AHPs). Submitted comments to Department of Labor on proposal to expand AHPs.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated for additional guidance/changes to provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act dealing with siloing of unrelated business income tax (UBIT) and transportation and parking "fringe" benefits. Also advocated for legislation grandfathering tax-exempt organizations from the excise tax on executive compensation over $1 million.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which ASAE argues exists to help ensure nonpartisanship in organizations that receive tax-deductible contributions.

Advocated against the administration's travel ban that temporarily banned travelers from six mostly-Muslim countries from entering the U.S. and suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days. Advocated against "extreme vetting" standards for scrutinizing visa applications that direct State Department officials to scrutinize social media history, passwords, family members of visa applicants. ASAE has submitted comments asserting that security is vitally important, but that a balance must be struck between the need for appropriate vetting standards and the need to facilitate legitimate travel to the U.S. Joined with US Travel Association and others to urge the administration to take steps to reverse the downward trajectory of inbound travel to the U.S.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated in favor of full repeal of the Cadillac tax, a 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health care plans that is set to take effect in 2020 as part of the Affordable Care Act. Advocated in favor of legislative language to strengthen Association Health Plans (AHPs).

Advocated against provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to change the tax treatment of revenue-generating activities such as royalty income, eliminate non-qualified deferred compensation plans for tax-exempt groups, and apply intermediate sanction rules to 501(c)(6) groups. Also advocated against an excise tax on executive compensation over $1 million. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the charitable giving deduction as part of tax reform.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against the administration's travel ban that temporarily banned travelers from six mostly-Muslim countries from entering the U.S. and suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days. Advocated against "extreme vetting" standards for scrutinizing visa applications that direct State Department officials to scrutinize social media history, passwords, family members of visa applicants. ASAE has submitted comments asserting that security is vitally important, but that a balance must be struck between the need for appropriate vetting standards and the need to facilitate legitimate travel to the U.S. Joined with US Travel Association and others to urge the administration to reconsider eliminating a State Department policy that ensures that 80 percent of visa applicants are interviewed within three weeks of submitting a visa application.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated against legislative proposals to expand the Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) statute in change the tax treatment of revenue-generating activities such as royalty income and certain qualified sponsorship payments. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the charitable giving deduction as part of tax reform.

Advocated against OMB restrictions on government agency travel to mission-related association conferences.

Advocated in favor of full repeal of the Cadillac tax, a 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health care plans that is set to take effect in 2020 as part of the Affordable Care Act. In June, ASAE urged Senate leaders to be more inclusive in crafting health-care legislation, as opposed to working behind closed doors and with little input from health-care organizations and other stakeholders in the health-care system. Advocated in favor of legislative language to strengthen Association Health Plans (AHPs).

Advocated against OMB restrictions on government agency travel to mission-related association conferences.

Advocated against the administration's travel ban that temporarily banned travelers from six mostly-Muslim countries from entering the U.S. and suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days. Advocated against "extreme vetting" standards for scrutinizing visa applications that direct State Department officials to scrutinize social media history, passwords, family members of visa applicants. ASAE submitted comments in May asserting that security is vitally important, but that a balance must be struck between the need for appropriate vetting standards and the need to facilitate legitimate travel to the U.S. Advocated against expanding a laptop ban on large electronics in the cabin of inbound flights.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which exists to ensure nonpartisanship in organizations that receive tax-deductible contributions.

Monitored legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against an initial executive order that temporarily banned travelers from seven mostly-Muslim countries from entering the U.S. and suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days. Advocated against a revised travel ban that raised the possibility that additional countries beyond the six that are temporarily banned may be forced to provide additional information and security information to the U.S. government to support U.S. visa and other immigration benefit determinations. ASAE supports a balance between appropriate vetting standards and the need to facilitate legitimate travel to the U.S.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation to remove the requirement that trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies.

Advocated against OMB restrictions on government employees' travel to mission-related association conferences.

Advocated against proposals to expand the UBIT statute to tax certain revenue-generating activities of tax-exempt organizations as part of a comprehensive tax code overhaul. No bill language yet. Also advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any tax reform proposal.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. Last July, the House passed an amendment that would rescind prior approval. The coalition is working on a Senate strategy.

Continued to monitor implementation of the Affordable Care Act including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers. Advocated for repeal of the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health plans (the "Cadillac tax") that was due to take effect in 2018 (now delayed until 2020 as part of the omnibus spending package passed last December).

Advocated against the development of new rules to limit the amount of political activity that can be carried out by 501(c)(6) trade associations. In particular, advocated against expanding the definition of political activity to include issue advocacy, voter registration activities, candidate forums and other constitutionally-protected activities. A provision restricting the IRS from issuing new political activity rules was included in the omnibus spending bill last December.

Advocated for changes to final overtime rule proposed by the Department of Labor. The rule, which will be effective December 1, significantly increases the minimum salary level for white collar employees to qualify as exempt from overtime pay requirements. Primary concern is DOL proposing a "one-size-fits-all" salary threshold for overtime eligibility as opposed to considering regional cost-of-living differences. ASAE supported H.R. 6094, introduced by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), which would delay implementation of the Department of Labors overtime rule until the middle of next year. The bill passed the House on Sept. 28, but has not passed the Senate. ASAE also supports the "Overtime Reform and Enhancement Act" introduced July 17 by Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR) that would incrementally phase in the new salary threshold over the next three years to give businesses adequate time to adjust to the new standard while also ensuring workers are fairly compensated. The bill would also eliminate a provision in the final overtime rule that allows for automatic updates to the salary threshold every three years.

ASAE is part of the Prior Approval Reform Coalition that is advocating in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. In early July, the House passed an amendment that would rescind the prior approval requirement in the Federal Election Campaign Act. The coalition is now working on a Senate strategy.

ASAE opposes a House bill that would expand the Federal Trade Commissions (FTC) oversight to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The bill (H.R. 5255) was one of 17 FTC-related bills considered May 24 by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade. The package of bills is aimed at bringing targeted reforms to the FTC and addressing some emerging technologies in the marketplace.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against restrictions on government employees' travel and attendance at mission-related association conferences.

ASAE is part of the Prior Approval Reform Coalition that is advocating in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. In early July, the House passed an amendment that would rescind the prior approval requirement in the Federal Election Campaign Act. The coalition is now working on a Senate strategy.

Advocated against the development of new rules to limit the amount of political activity that can be carried out by 501(c)(6) trade associations. In particular, advocated against expanding the definition of political activity to include issue advocacy, voter registration activities, candidate forums and other constitutionally-protected activities. A provision restricting the IRS from issuing new political activity rules was included in the omnibus spending bill last December.

Advocated against proposals to expand the UBIT statute to tax certain revenue-generating activities of associations, including proposals in the 2014 Dave Camp tax reform discussion draft to tax royalty income and certain qualified sponsorships. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code. Specifically voiced support for the Charities Helping Americans Regularly Throughout the Year (CHARITY) Act, introduced by Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Advocated against the IRS adopting an alternative substantiation rule that would have given nonprofit organizations the option of substantiating contributions of $250 or more by collecting and reporting donors Social Security numbers to the IRS.

Advocated for changes to final overtime rule proposed by the Department of Labor. The rule, which will be effective December 1, significantly increases the minimum salary level for white collar employees to qualify as exempt from overtime pay requirements. Primary concern is DOL proposing a "one-size-fits-all" salary threshold for overtime eligibility as opposed to considering regional cost-of-living differences. ASAE supports the "Overtime Reform and Enhancement Act" introduced July 17 by Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR) that would incrementally phase in the new salary threshold over the next three years to give businesses adequate time to adjust to the new standard while also ensuring workers are fairly compensated. The bill would also eliminate a provision in the final overtime rule that allows for automatic updates to the salary threshold every three years. ASAE also

ASAE opposes a House bill that would expand the Federal Trade Commissions (FTC) oversight to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The bill (H.R. 5255) was one of 17 FTC-related bills considered May 24 by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade. The package of bills is aimed at bringing targeted reforms to the FTC and addressing some emerging technologies in the marketplace. ASAE argues that the nonprofit sector is already regulated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and does not require another oversight agency. The FTC, which oversees businesses and for-profit corporations, is inexperienced in nonprofit governance and is not the correct agency to regulate the business practices of nonprofits, ASAE said.

Continued to monitor implementation of the Affordable Care Act including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers. Advocated for repeal of the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health plans (the "Cadillac tax") that was due to take effect in 2018 (now delayed until 2020 as part of the omnibus spending package passed last December).

Advocated in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. No bill introduced as yet.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against proposals to expand the UBIT statute to tax certain revenue-generating activities of associations, including proposals in the 2014 Dave Camp tax reform discussion draft to tax royalty income and certain qualified sponsorships. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code. Specifically voiced support for the Charities Helping Americans Regularly Throughout the Year (CHARITY) Act, introduced by Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Advocated against the IRS adopting an alternative substantiation rule that would have given nonprofit organizations the option of substantiating contributions of $250 or more by collecting and reporting donors Social Security numbers to the IRS.

Tracked new rules on net neutrality, approved by the FCC last March.

Advocated against the development of new rules to limit the amount of political activity that can be carried out by 501(c)(6) trade associations. In particular, advocated against expanding the definition of political activity to include issue advocacy, voter registration activities, candidate forums and other constitutionally-protected activities. A provision restricting the IRS from issuing new political activity rules was included in the omnibus spending bill last December.

Advocated for changes to overtime rules proposed by the Department of Labor. Primary concern is DOL proposing a "one-size-fits-all" salary threshold for overtime eligibility as opposed to considering regional cost-of-living differences. Also interested in what, if any, changes the DOL intends to make to the duties test that is part of the executive, administrative and professional (EAP) exemption included in the original Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. Advocated for changes to the Department of Labor's persuader rule that could force employers to disclose any labor-related communications they have with legal counsel or outside consultants.

Advocated against the development of new rules to limit the amount of political activity that can be carried out by 501(c)(6) trade associations. In particular, advocated against expanding the definition of political activity to include issue advocacy, voter registration activities, candidate forums and other constitutionally-protected activities. A provision restricting the IRS from issuing new political activity rules was included in the omnibus spending bill in December.

Tracking new overtime rules proposed by the Department of Labor. Primary concern is DOL proposing a "one-size-fits-all" salary threshold for overtime eligibility as opposed to considering regional cost-of-living differences. Also interested in what, if any, changes the DOL intends to make to the duties test that is part of the executive, administrative and professional (EAP) exemption included in the original Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.

Advocated against statutory restrictions on government employees' travel and attendance at mission-related association conferences. Specifically worked on H.R. 2032, the Government Spending Accountability Act of 2015, introduced by Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-TX); H.R. 2810, the Stay in Place, Cut the Waste Act, introduced by Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick (R-PA); and H.R. 3548, the "TRACE Act," introduced by Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) and Erik Paulson (R-MN).

Advocated against proposals to expand the UBIT statute to tax certain revenue-generating activities of associations, including proposals in the 2014 Dave Camp tax reform discussion draft to tax royalty income and certain qualified sponsorships. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code.

Continued to monitor implementation of the Affordable Care Act including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers. Advocated for changes to the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health plans (the "Cadillac tax") that was due to take effect in 2018 (now delayed until 2020 in the omnibus spending package passed in December).

Advocated against the development of new rules to limit the amount of political activity that can be carried out by 501(c)(6) trade associations. In particular, advocated against expanding the definition of political activity to include issue advocacy, voter registration activities, candidate forums and other constitutionally-protected activities.

Tracking Department of Justice's decision to review consent decrees with ASCAP and BMI. Primary interest is in application of rules to associations and other event organizers who are responsible for licensing music at meetings, conferences and trade shows.

Continued to monitor implementation of the Affordable Care Act including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers. Advocated for changes to the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health plans (the "Cadillac tax") that goes into effect in 2018.

Advocated against proposals to expand the UBIT statute to tax certain revenue-generating activities of associations, including proposals in the 2014 Dave Camp tax reform discussion draft to tax royalty income and certain qualified sponsorships. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code.

Advocated against statutory restrictions on government employees' travel and attendance at mission-related association conferences. Specifically worked on H.R. 2032, the Government Spending Accountability Act of 2015, introduced by Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-TX); H.R. 2810, the Stay in Place, Cut the Waste Act, introduced by Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick (R-PA); and H.R. 3548, the "TRACE Act," introduced by Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI) and Erik Paulson (R-MN).

Tracked new rules on net neutrality, approved by the FCC in March.

Continued to monitor implementation of the Affordable Care Act including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers. Advocated for changes to the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high-cost health plans (the "Cadillac tax") that goes into effect in 2018.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated against statutory restrictions on government employees' travel and attendance at mission-related association conferences. Specifically worked on H.R. 2032, the Government Spending Accountability Act of 2015, introduced by Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-TX); and H.R. 2810, the Stay in Place, Cut the Waste Act, introduced by Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick (R-PA).

Advocated in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. No bill introduced as yet.

Tracking Department of Justice's decision to review consent decrees with ASCAP and BMI. Primary interest is in application of rules to associations and other event organizers who are responsible for licensing music at meetings, conferences and trade shows.

Tracking Department of Justice's decision to review consent decrees with ASCAP and BMI. Primary interest is in application of rules to associations and other event organizers who are responsible for licensing music at meetings, conferences and trade shows.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of legislation to reauthorize the "Terrorism Risk Insurance Act," signed into law Jan. 12, 2015.

Tracked new rules on net neutrality, approved by the FCC in March.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of policies that encourage international travel to the U.S., including the Travel Promotion Act which reauthorized Brand USA. Included in the FY15 federal spending bill signed into law.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model (S. 1486, "The Postal Reform Act") with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated in favor of new legislation removing the requirement that all trade association PACs obtain prior approval before soliciting employees of member companies. No bill introduced as yet.

Advocated against restrictions on government employees' attendance at mission-related association conferences. Specifically worked on S. 1347, "The Conference Accountability Act."

Tracking proposed rules on net neutrality that could potentially allow companies to pay broadband providers for faster "lanes" to deliver content to consumers.

Continued to monitor implementation of Affordable Care Act, including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of policies that encourage international travel to U.S.-based meetings and conferences, including the "Travel Promotion, Enhancement and Modernization Act of 2014" introduced in the Senate (S. 2250) and House (HR 4450).

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of legislation to reauthorize the "Terrorism Risk Insurance Act" which expired at the end of 2014 (S. 2244/HR. 508).

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of policies that encourage international travel to U.S.-based meetings and conferences, including "the Travel Promotion, Enhancement and Modernization Act of 2014" introduced in the U.S. Senate (S. 2250) and House of Representatives (H.R. 4450).

Advocated against restrictions on government employees attending mission-related outside conferences. Specifically worked on S. 1347, "The Conference Accountability Act of 2014," co-sponsored by Sens. Coburn and Heitkamp.

Advocated against specific provisions in Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp's tax reform discussion draft that would impact the revenue streams of associations, including proposed changes to tax treatment of royalty income and certain qualified sponsorship payments. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code. Advocated against IRS proposed rules to restrict political activity by 501(c)(4) tax-exempt groups, and potentially extend the same rules to trade associations and unions.

Continued to track implementation of The Affordable Care Act, including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers.

Tracking proposed rules on net neutrality that could potentially allow companies to pay broadband providers for faster 'lanes' to deliver content to consumers.

Advocated against specific provisions in Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp's tax reform discussion draft that would impact the revenue streams of associations, including proposed changes to tax treatment of royalty income and certain qualified sponsorship payments. Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable giving as part of any overhaul of the tax code. Advocated against IRS proposed rules to restrict political activity by 501(c)(4) tax-exempt groups, and potentially extend the same rules to trade associations and unions.

Tracking proposed rules on net neutrality that could potentially allow companies to pay broadband providers for faster 'lanes' to deliver content to consumers.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model, S. 1486 "The Postal Reform Act of 2014," with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of policies that encourage international travel to U.S.-based meetings and conferences, including "the Travel Promotion, Enhancement and Modernization Act of 2014" introduced in the U.S. Senate (S. 2250) and House of Representatives (H.R. 4450).

Continued to track implementation of The Affordable Care Act, including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers.

Continued to track implementation of the Affordable Care Act, including enrollment in federal and state health insurance exchanges and provisions impacting associations as employers.

Tracking new proposed rules on net neutrality that could potentially allow companies to pay broadband providers for faster lanes to deliver content to consumers.

Advocated against IRS proposed rules to restrict political activity by 501(c)(4) tax-exempt groups, and potentially extend the same rules to trade associations and unions.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of legislation to reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), which expires at the end of 2014 (S. 2244/H.R. 508)

Tracking the Department of Justice's decision to review consent decrees with ASCAP and BMI, the nations two largest performing rights societies that license and collect fees for the use of copyrighted music. Interest is in application of rules to associations and other trade show organizers who are responsible for licensing the music used at the meetings, conventions and exhibitions they organize.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of legislation to renew the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), which expires at the end of 2014 (H.R. 508, H.R. 2146)

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable contributions as part of any overhaul of the tax code.

Tracked legislation to reform the U.S. Postal Service's business model (S. 1486), with intent on preserving favorable postal rates for nonprofit mailers.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of retaining the deduction for charitable contributions as part of any overhaul of the tax code.

Advocated against proposed rulemaking from the Office of Government Ethics that would restrict government employees from accepting invitations to widely-attended programs and events held by trade associations (RIN 3209-AA04). Rulemaking is still pending.

Monitored progress toward comprehensive tax reform, particularly options to address the commercial activities of tax-exempt organizations or expand the unrelated business income tax (UBIT) statute.

Monitored the DISCLOSE Act (H.R. 148) which would require corporations, unions and other entities to report campaign-related expendiures to the FEC within 24 hours and require groups that purchase political ads to disclose their financial contributors.

Continued to track implementation of the Affordable Care Act, including the development of federal and state health insurance exchanges and the role associations can play as navigators to the exchanges.

Continued to track implementation of the Affordable Care Act, including formation of federal and state health insurance Exchanges and the role associations can play as navigators to the Exchanges.

Advocated against proposed rulemaking from the Office of Government Ethics that would restrict government employees from accepting invitations to attend widely attended education programs held by trade associations. (RIN 3209-AA04). Rulemaking is still pending.

Advocated as part of a coalition in favor of policies that promote the U.S. as a destination for meetings and conferences and improve visa processing for international visitors.

Monitored postal reform legislation, including the "21st Century Postal Service Act" (S. 1789) that passed the Senate in April 2012. This bill would address the Postal Service's dire financial condition while preserving preferred rates for nonprofit mailers. This bill was not taken up by the House in 2012.

Advocated as part of Health Choices Coalition in favor of H.R. 2529 and S. 1368 allowing use of flexible spending accounts to purchase over-the-coalition medications.

Continued to track implementation of the Affordable Care Act, including formation of health insurance Exchanges and the role associations can play as navigators to the Exchanges.

Advocated against proposals in various budget and deficit reduction plans to cap the tax deduction for charitable contributions on personal income taxes.

Continued to track implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, including formation of health care Exchanges and the role associations can play as navigators to the Exchanges.

Opposed recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Tax Exempt and Government Entities (ACT) that the IRS eliminate group returns and require chapters of tax-exempt parent organizations to file separate Form 990 returns. Advocated for retaining current group exemption practices. Recommendations have not been adopted by the IRS to date.

Advocated as part of a coalition for a national travel and tourism strategy thta includes better promotion of the U.S. as a destination and improved visa processing to facilitate international travel.

Advocated as member of coalition for national travel and tourism strategy that includes better promotion of the U.S. as a destination and improved visa processing to facilitate international travel.

Advocated as part of a coalition against unregulated expansion of domain names by ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.

Monitored proposals to reform the Postal Service, including "The 21st Century Postal Service Act" (S.1789), which would address the Postal Service's financial predicament while preserving special reduced rates for nonprofit mail.

Member of Digital Privacy Coalition that is tracking consumer privacy legislation to determine potential impact on membership organizations. Sens. Kerry and McCain and Reps. Stearns and Matheson have introduced privacy bills in the Senate and House respectively (S. 799 and H.R. 1528).

Tracking draft executive order from the president that would require companies making bids on government contracts to disclose their contributions to political candidates and parties. Draft order is still pending.

Advocated as part of Health Choices Coalition for passage of H.R. 2529 and S. 1368, allowing use of flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to purchase over-the-counter medications.

Advocated as part of a coalition against unregulated expansion of domain names by ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.

Monitored ongoing hearings and discussion on comprehensive tax reform for potential impact on associations and other tax-exempt organizations.

Monitored meetings of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction ("the supercommittee") for proposals that potentially impact associations and other tax-exempt entities.

Advocated against various budget and deficit reduction proposals to limit or reduce the tax deduction for charitable contributions on personal income taxes.

Supported proposed rule change from Office of Government Ethics that would allow federal employees to serve on the board of a nonprofit organization without a waiver from their agency.

Monitored proposals to reform the U.S. Postal Service to help the agency regain its financial footing, including possibly eliminating preferred rates for nonprofit mailers. (H.R. 2309)

Member of Power of Travel Coalition, established by the U.S. Travel Association to champion, protect and improve travel to the U.S. Supported International Tourism Facilitation Act, which would encourage more international tourism to the U.S. by allowing the State Department to reinvest fees charged for visas if the department improves the efficiency with which it processes visas.

Member of Digital Privacy Coalition that is tracking consumer privacy legislation to determine potential impact on membership organizations. Sens. John Kerry and John McCain and Reps. Cliff Stearns and Jim Matheson have offered privacy bills in the Senate and House, respectively. (S. 799 and H.R. 1528)

Continued to track implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590).

Monitoring draft executive order at the White House that would require companies making bids on government contracts to disclose their contributions to political candidates and parties.

Tracking competing Fiscal Year 2012 budget plans offered by the White House and House Republicans (H. Con. Res 34) for impact on associations and other tax-exempt organizations.

Member of Power of Travel Coalition, established by U.S. Travel Association to champion, protect and improve travel to the U.S. The coalition serves as a grassroots voice for travel industry employees and stakeholders who advocate for policies that promote travel to and within the U.S.

Tracking ongoing scrutiny of 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) governance practices, unrelated business income taxes (UBIT) and executive compensation practices.

Advocated in favor of a proposed rule by the Office of Government Ethics (OGE) that would relax the long-standing prohibition on government employees serving on association and nonprofit boards.

Monitoring FTC's proposed rule regarding certifications of environmental standards sponsored by associations. The FTC's proposed rule is an update of the FTC "green guides" for environmental marketing and aims to "help marketers avoid making unfair or deceptive environmental marketing claims."

Monitored statutory pay-as-you-go rules that require most new spending be offset with spending cuts, not contributing to the federal deficit.

Tracking ongoing scrutiny of 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) governance practices, unrelated business income activity and executive compensation practices.

Continued to track and monitor implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590).

Monitoring proposals to aid the U.S. Postal Service in regaining its financial footing including possibly eliminating preferred rates for nonprofit mailers.

Monitored FTC proposal to implement a Do Not Track mechanism so that online consumers can choose whether retailers and other businesses can access data about their Internet searching and browsing. ASAE encourages regulators to balance the need for privacy with allowing associations and advertisers to tailor offerings to individuals visiting their websites.

Monitored ongoing scrutiny of nonprofit governance practices, unrelated business income activity, and executive compensation practices.

Advocated for changes to interim rules for maintaining grandfathered health plan status under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. ASAE has asked federal agencies to allow small and medium-sized employers to retain grandfathered status even if they make cost-saving changes to both copayments and cost-sharing, provided they do not reduce the per-employee amount they pay for insurance.

Submitted comments to the FTC asking the agency to reconsider its proposed rule regarding certifications of environmental standards sponsored by associations.The FTC's proposed rule is an update of the FTC green guides for environmental marketing and aims to help marketers avoid making unfair or deceptive environmental marketing claims.

Member of coalition of organizations led by U.S. Travel Association seeking to promote and protect the economic vitality of the business travel and meetings industry and facilitate international travel to the U.S.

Monitored statutory PAYGO rules that require most new tax cuts and spending increases be budget neutral, not adding to the federal deficit. The House passed statutory PAYGO in 2009 and the Senate followed suit in January 2010.

Monitored Internet consumer privacy legislation sponsored by Rep. Rick Boucher (D-VA). ASAE's interest is in better defining the type of information that would be construed as sensitive and acknowledging the established relationship that associations and otehr membership organizations have with their online consumers.

Continued to participate in a coalition led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce urging further reforms to help strengthen pension plans and save jobs across the U.S. The coalition supports Pomeroys Preserve Benefits and Jobs Act and Sen. Bob Caseys (D-PA) Create Jobs & Save Benefits Act to further strengthen the current funding status of multi-employer plans.

Monitored an Internet consumer privacy bill authored by Rep. Rick Boucher (D-VA). ASAE's interest is in better defining the type of information that would be construed as sensitive and acknowledging the established relationship that associations and other membership organizations have with their online consumers.

Monitored legislation reauthorizing the Federal Trade Commission, first introduced in 2008. ASAE opposes provision to expand FTC jurisdiction to regulate nonprofit organizations for unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Oversight of tax-exempt organizations already resides with the IRS.

Continued to monitor periodic legislative and regulatory efforts to curb commercial email, or spam, with a goal of ensuring any proposals do not impede legitimate communications between associations and their members.

Member of coalition of travel industry organizations led by U.S. Travel Association engaged in ongoing campaign which seeks to promote and protect the economic vitality of the meetings industry and facilitate international travel to the U.S.

Continued to track and monitor implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (H.R. 4872). Lobbied in favor of tax credits for small businesses and eligible tax-exempt employers to make insurance coverage more affordable.

Monitored statutory PAYGO rules that require most new tax cuts and spending increases be budget neutral, not adding to the federal deficit. The House passed statutory PAYGO in July 2009 and the Senate followed suit in January 2010.

Advocated against provisions in the DISCLOSE Act (H.R. 5175). ASAE believes several of the reporting and disclaimer requirements in the bill make compliance an onerous task for associations and other organizations that have rights to political speech protected by the First Amendment. The bill passed the House in late June and failed in the Senate in late September.

Submitted comments on on an Internet consumer privacy bill being drafted by Rep. Rick Boucher (D-VA). ASAEs comments have to do with better defining the type of information that would be construed as sensitive, and acknowledging the established relationship that associations and other membership organizations have with their online consumers.

Advocated against provisions in the DISCLOSE Act (H.R. 5175), designed to blunt the impact of the Supreme Courts landmark campaign finance decision earlier in 2010. ASAE believes several of the reporting and disclaimer requirements in the bill make compliance an onerous task for associations and other organizations that have rights to political speech protected by the First Amendment. The bill has passed the House and is pending in the Senate.

Monitored implementation of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, granting a $13 billion payroll tax exemption for corporate and nonprofit employers that hire workers who had been unemployed for at least 60 days. The House and Senate both passed the bill in March.

Member of coalition of travel and meetings organizations led by U.S. Travel Association engaged in ongoing "Meetings Mean Business" campaign which seeks to promote and protect the economic vitality of the meetings and business travel industries.

Opposed a White House directive to agencies prohibiting registered lobbyists from appointment to advisory boards or commissions. ASAE opposed the policy change since it was first suggested in fall of 2009. The memo was signed by the president June 18.

Continued to track and monitor implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (H.R. 4872). Lobbied in favor of tax credits for small businesses and eligible tax-exempt employers to make insurance coverage more affordable.

Supported legislation removed company-owned cell phones and other mobile devices from the listed property rules in the tax code. This language was included in the Taxpayer Assistance Act of 2010 (H.R. 4994) to reduce taxpayer burdens and enhance taxpayer protections. Bill passed the House April 14 and is pending in the Senate.

Monitored legislation reauthorizing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which was first introduced in 2008. ASAE opposes provision to exapnd the agency's jurisdiction to regulate nonprofit organizations for unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Oversight of tax-exempt organizations already resides with the IRS.

Supported legislation removing company-owned cell phones and other mobile devices from the listed property rules in the tax code. Originally passed in 1989, the law required employers that assign company-owned cell phones to track and pay federal income taxes on personal calls made by employees from a company phone.

Joined coalition led by U.S. Travel Association in support of S. 1023, the Travel Promotion Act, which creates a nonprofit corporation to boost tourism from abroad. Bill passed the Senate last year but for procedural reasons, had to originate in the House. The House passed the bill Oct. 7, 2009, and the Senate passed it Feb. 26, 2010.

In regular communication with the White House concerning the administration's ongoing efforts to limit contact between the executive branch and registered lobbyists. Most recent communication was in response to White House directive that registered lobbyists not serve on federal advisory boards or commissions.

Advocated in favor of legislation to repeal "prior approval" restrictions on PAC solicitations by trade associations.

Monitored discussion of comprehensive reforms that could potentially impact deferred compensation plans and other benefits offered to association executives.

Monitored legislation reauthorizing the Federal Trade Commission, opposing provision to expand the agency's jurisdiction to regulate nonprofit organizations for unfair or deceptive acts or practices. S. 2831 is still pending.

Monitored status of statutory PAYGO bill (H.R. 2920) that requires most new tax cuts and spending increases be budget neutral, not adding to the deficit. Bill passed the House in July 2009, and on Jan. 28, 2010, the Senate voted in favor of adopting statutory PAYGO and creating a bipartisan commission by executive order to make recommendations to address the long-term budget crisis.

Supported the Mobile Cell Phone Act (S. 144) to remove company-owned cell phones from the listed property rules in the tax code. Originally passed in 1989, the law requires employers assigning company-owned cell phones to track and pay federal income taxes on personal calls made from the company phone.

Advocated in favor of legislation to repeal "prior approval" restrictions on PAC solicitations by trade associations.

Advocated for changes to new restrictions adopted in 2009 on administration officials meeting or speaking on the telephone with registered lobbyists regarding specific projects bidding for Recovery Act funding.

Joined coalition led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce urging Congress to enact legislation to provide much-needed pension funding relief and provide greater financial stability for companies and associations struggling through the economic downturn.

Monitored progress of statutory PAYGO bill (H.R. 2920) that requires most new tax cuts and spending increases be budget neutral, not adding to the deficit. Bill passed the House July 22, 2009; pending in Senate.

Monitored legislation reauthorizing the Federal Trade Commission, opposing provision expanding the agency's jurisdiction to regulate nonprofit organizations for unfair or deceptive acts or practices, S. 2831.

Monitored a statutory PAYGO bill (H.R. 2920) that requires most new tax cuts and spending increases be budget neutral, not adding to the deficit. Bill passed the House July 22; pending in Senate.

Advocated against two amendments proposed by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) during the Senate Finance markup of health care reform that would give the IRS statutory authority to require governance reporting from tax-exempt organizations, and expand the Services authority to challenge nonprofit executive compensation practices. Amendments were not offered during markup.

Advocated for changes to new restrictions on administration officials meeting or speaking with registered lobbyists regarding specific projects bidding for Recovery Act funding.

Monitored ongoing discussions regarding comprehensive federal tax reform for potential implications for tax-exempt organizations. No bill introduced in the 111th Congress during the 3rd quarter.

Monitored legislation reauthorizing the Federal Trade Commission, and opposed provision expanding the Commissions authority to regulate non-profits for unfair or deceptive acts or practices. (S. 2831 in 110th Congress; legislation not yet introduced in 111th Congress)

Advocated in favor of legislation to repeal "prior approval" restrictions on PAC solicitations by trade associations.

Joined coalition of travel and meetings industry organizations led by U.S. Travel Association in "Meetings Mean Business" campaign, which seeks to promote and protect the economic vitality of the meetings and business travel industries.

Joined coalition led by U.S. Travel Association in favor of the Travel Promotion Act (S. 1023), a bill that would create a nonprofit corporation to boost tourism to the U.S. from abroad. Bill passed Senate Sept. 9, but as revenue-generating must originate in House. House passed bill Oct. 7. Senate vote pending.

In response to executive order on ethics, advocated for changes to new restrictions on executive branch officials meeting or speaking with registered lobbyists regarding specific projects considered for funding by Recovery Act.

Monitored proposals for comprehensive federal tax reform for potential implications for tax-exempt organizations. No comprehensive bill introduced in the 111th Congress during the 2nd quarter.

Continued to work to ensure that any legislative or regulatory efforts to curb undesired commercial email, or spam, do not impede legitimate communications between associations and their members and business partners.

Joined coalition of associations led by U.S. Travel Association in launching Meetings Mean Business campaign, which seeks to promote and protect the meetings and business travel industry. Recent scrutiny of trips sponsored by companies receiving TARP funding has resulted in cancelled bookings for meetings and conventions, adding to the economic downturn in these industries.

Joined coalition of trade associations and large corporations in support of temporary provisions to address a pension funding crisis confronting employers and nonprofit organizations nationwide.

Advocated against the creation of "Do Not Mail" registries that would impede associations and other membership organizations from mailing to prospective members and donors, or business partners.

Supported passage of the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act (H.R. 1388), passed by Congress in March and signed into law. The bill is projected to more than triple the number of volunteers nationwide from 75,000 to 250,000.

In response to March 20 memo from White House, requested a meeting with White House Counsel's office to discuss recent guidance restricting lobbyists from meeting face to face or by telephone with administration officials on specific projects to be funded by the latest stimulus package.

Joined a coalition of trade associations and large corporations in support of temporary provisions to address a pension funding crisis confronting employers and nonprofit organizations nationwide.

Monitored hearings and discussions of comprehensive health care reform. A bill is expected to be marked up by Senate Finance Committee by June.

Joined coalitions in support of H.R. 7327, "Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act," to give cash-strapped companies more flexibility in meeting pension funding requirements established in the Pension Protection Act of 2006. The bill was passed by both chambers and signed into law in late December.

Monitored hearings and discussions of comprehensive health care reform legislation. A specific bill was not introduced in the last quarter of 2008, but is being drafted by early in the 111th Congress.

Continued to work to ensure that any legislative or regulatory efforts to curb unwanted commercial email, or spam, do not impede legitimate communications between associations and their members/business partners.

Advocated against the creation of "Do Not Mail" registries that would impede associations and other membership organizations from mailing to membership prospects and donors or business partners.

Continued to work to ensure legitimate communications between membership organizations and their members/business partners are not impeded by efforts to curb unwanted commercial email messages, or spam.

Joined a coalition of travel organizations requesting changes to a proposed Homeland Security rule, under the US-VISIT program, that would require airlines and cruise lines to bear responsibility for identification scans of international travelers before entering the U.S.

Joined coalition of organizations in support of S. 3532 (Giving Incentives for Volunteers Everywhere, or GIVE Act), to address the impact of high gasoline prices for volunteers who use their automobiles to provide charitable services to individuals in need.

Monitored the status of S. 2795 (Small Business Health Options Program, or SHOP), and S. 2818 (Small Business Health Plans Act of 2008). Advocated in favor of H.R. 6582 (Small Business CHOICE Act), introduced July 23, 2008 by Reps. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) and Joe Pitt (R-PA). This bill would help small businesses offer health insurance by allowing small firms to pool their employees with those of other businesses in voluntary health cooperatives.

Monitored discussions of comprehensive reform that could potentially impact deferred compensation plans and other benefits offered to association staff executives.

Continued to work to ensure legitimate communications from membership organizations to members and business clients are not impeded by efforts to curb commercial email messages, or spam.

Advocated against the creation of "do not mail" registries that would impede membership organizations and other tax-exempt entities from mailing to membership prospects and donors and business partners.

Discussed S. 2795, the "Small Business Health Options Program" (SHOP) bill, and S. 2818, the "Small Business Health Plans Act of 2008," two bills allowing small business health plans or pooling arrangements as potential solutions for the uninsured. Also met with staff of Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) to discuss her plans to introduce the "Small Business Cooperative for Healthcare Options to Improve Coverage for Employees (CHOICE) Act," a bill that would also seek to create national health insurance pools.

Continued to work to ensure legitimate communications from membership organizations to members and business clients are not impeded by efforts to curb commercial email messages, or spam.

Monitored discussions of comprehensive reform that could potentially impact deferred compensation plans and other benefits offered to association staff executives.

Supported H.R. 3492, the "PAC Fairness Act of 2007," to repeal "prior approval" restrictions on PAC solicitations by trade associations.

Advocated against the creation of "Do Not Mail" registries that would impede membership organizations and other tax-exempt entities from mailing to potential members and donors and business partners.

Advocated in favor of small business health plans and small business pooling arrangements as potential solutions for the uninsured.

Worked to delay implementation of rate changes for nonprofit mailers, and advocated against the creation of "Do Not Mail" registries that would impede membership organizations from mailing to potential members and business partners.

* Monitored provisions in comprehensive reform legislation that could potentially impact deferred compensation plans and other benefits offered to association staff executives. Monitored provisions in comprehensive reform legislation that could potentially impact deferred compensation plans and other benefits offered to association staff executives.

Worked to ensure legitimate communications from membership organizations was not impeded by efforts to curb commercial e-mail messages (spam).

Advocated in favor of legislation extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA).

* Monitored efforts pertaining to issue advocacy and matters related to campaign finance activity, and supported a provision within comprehensive legislation (H.R. 1316) to repeal "prior approval" restrictions on PAC solicitations by trade associations. In connection with lobbying and ethics reform, advocated against a ban on privately-sponsored congressional travel and in favor of exceptions that would allow members of Congress to attend legitimate association meetings or conferences in the U.S.

* Called attention to provisions in the Senate tax reconciliation package pertaining to charitable reforms and incentives, with particular emphasis on provisions governing "supporting organizations." Monitored comprehensive federal tax reform proposals and the potential impact on the tax-exempt community, with particular emphasis on section 501(c)(6) organizations.

Regulatory activity attempting to curb commercial e-mail messages (spam).

Advocated in favor of small business health plans (SBHPs), H.R. 525 and S. 406

Monitored comprehensive postal reform legislation, and worked with coalition toward delaying implementation of rate changes for nonprofit mailers.