Day at the Capitol a Great Success
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The CIOMA Government Relations Committee is your watchdog, evaluating new legislation and determining which bills warrant CIOMA’s attention, support or opposition, but this is only one component of the job. Grassroots advocacy is essential in our efforts to sponsor change in legislation that beneficially affects our industry.
Over 50 CIOMA members attended one or both days of important meetings included with the 2016 Day at the Capitol proceedings. It was a record turnout as well as a record number of legislative appointments.
This two-day event kicked-off on Tuesday, March 15 at the Citizen Hotel by holding a WSPA/CIOMA Training Session on GHG Issues - A 1.5 hour session was held discussing current issues regarding greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations and training/advice on how to convey important messages to others (such as customers, local business organizations, fraternal groups, legislators and the press), amplifying concerns about how 14ยข/gallon in GHG costs is being spent, and the cost-effectiveness of such programs as the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS).
Following the Training Session, industry partner Fred Whitaker (Cummins & White) briefed attendees on new business tax provisions made permanent in late 2015. Federated Insurance provided their latest training/awareness video on the dangers and liabilities involved with distracted driving accidents.
This year, we’ve added a CIOMPAC Appreciation Reception to our event line-up. This event was aimed at recognizing and thanking CIOMPAC contributors and supporters. CIOMA members who have contributed to the PAC in 2016 were treated to a reception and insider information. Fred Whitaker, also Orange County Republican Part Chair, hosted presentations by two key legislators on key races in 2016. Assembly Member Rudy Salas (D, Bakersfield) pointed out key races for the New Democrats (aka as Moderates) with their hope to maintain or increase the ranks of D's who understand business value to the state's economic and environmental goals. Senator And Vidak (R, Hanford) spoke of the importance in preserving the Republicans' "super minority" while thwarting the ability of Democrats to come up with a 2/3rd's vote in the Legislature. CIOMA's PAC leadership kept busy taking notes, for 2016 spending priorities as PAC contributions are received.
A Networking Dinner & Auction was held immediately following the reception. Contributions, over $5000 was raised in a combination silent-public auction of cool items. Kathy Laderman (O&A News) purchased an antique "visi-pump" fuel dispenser - the night's largest attention-getter. Roughly $600 was also raised for the CIOMA Scholarship Fund. Thanks to all who contributed items, and all who purchased!
If you were unable to attend this year's event, be sure to make your voice heard at the State Capitol next year by participating in Day at the Capitol 2017.
