ms MARY KATE CUNNINGHAM

Supported the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026, introduced in May by Sens. James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) would establish automatic continuing resolutions to keep the government operating while creating incentives for Congress to complete the appropriations process promptly.

Advocated as part of the Coalition to Protect and Promote Association Health Plans in support of H.R. 2528/S. 1847, the Association Health Plans Act, a bill that would expand access to Association Health Plans (AHPs) for small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Advocated as part of the Meetings Mean Business Coalition for policies identifying inbound travel as an economic priority, including urging the Administration to modify visa processes to facilitate international business travel to the U.S.

Submitted comments on the White House Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) proposed overhaul of the Uniform Guidance governing federal grants. Comments oppose provisions that would restrict the allowability of membership dues, conference attendance, and periodical subscriptions under federal awards, changes that could significantly affect how grant recipients participate in association activities. Congress blocked a final OMB rule through December 11, 2026 as part of latest government funding bill.

Supported the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 (S. 4395), legislation to extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), a critical federal program that helps protect the association community and broader economy against terrorism-related risks.

Advocated in support of H.R. 2528, the Association Health Plans Act, a bill that would expand access to Association Health Plans (AHPs) for small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Advocated in support of H.R. 2528, the Association Health Plans Act, a bill that would expand access to Association Health Plans (AHPs) for small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Issue #1 Advocated for a FY25 LHHS Appropriations Report Language request to create a comprehensive database of postsecondary credentials, specifically certifications. Issue #2 Advocated for a FY25 MilConVA Appropriations Report Language request to study the prevalence of postsecondary credentials among veterans.

Advocated for tax policies needed for businesses, associations and other job creators to thrive in preparation for anticipated tax reform in 2025, given sweeping tax breaks established in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire next year.

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. 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.

Joined a coalition of more than 200 trade associations and professional organizations supporting an expedited final rule from the Federal Trade Commission to stop government and business impersonation scams.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act (H.R. 2868), introduced in April by Reps. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Rick Allen (R-GA), Michael Burgess (R-TX), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Virginia Foxx (R-NC) and Bob Good (R-VA), would give employees of small employers and self-employed individuals with no employees much-needed access to comprehensive, affordable health coverage through AHPs.

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.

Joined a coalition of more than 200 trade associations and professional organizations supporting an expedited final rule from the Federal Trade Commission to stop government and business impersonation scams.

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.

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 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 (H.R. 5823) 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 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 in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) provides statutory authority for certain short-term, limited-duration health insurance plans and association health plans. Updated AHP legislation is being drafted in the 118th Congress. ASAE is a member of the Coalition to Protect and Promote Association Health Plans.

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, 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.

Advocated in favor of expanding Association Health Plans. The Association Health Plans Act of 2021 (H.R. 4547) was introduced July 21, 2021 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 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 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.