BOMA’s 2012 National Issues Conference
BOMA BOG Approves New Policy Positions
On Feb. 1, BOMA International’s Board of Governors approved a new policy position on notice and compliance under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and a revision to its existing policy on preserving a democratic workplace. The two positions were previously approved by BOMA’s Government Affairs Committee. The new policy on ADA is in response to recently introduced legislation (H.R. 3356) that would protect the commercial real estate industry from “drive by” lawsuits by imposing notice and a compliance opportunity before commencement of a private civil action under the ADA. The second position is a revision to our policy on preserving a democratic workplace to align it with the policies currently under debate within Congress and the administration.
BOMA’s Grassroots Strikes Again!
On Wednesday, February 1, more than 300 BOMA members stormed Capitol Hill to ask their lawmakers to support commercial real estate’s issues on taxes, energy efficiency, and ADA compliance. BOMA’s National Issues Conference (NIC) attendees met with nearly 200 congressional offices following a “How to Lobby” workshop and some words of inspiration and advice from Congressman David Schweikert (R-Ariz.). From the feedback that keeps pouring in from Hill offices, BOMA’s message has been well received by staff and legislators alike.
Thank you to our NIC participants – whether you were a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, we hope you are inspired to continue these conversations and build deeper relationships with your representatives back in your home districts and let your elected officials know the impact that BOMA members and the commercial real estate industry have on the economy. Please continue to send your feedback on your meetings to enaden@boma.org and let us know if any questions arose so that we can follow up on them. Thanks for a great NIC!
BOMA International Advocacy is Energized
President Obama and members of the 112th Congress have an ambitious legislative agenda for 2011-12, and many issues of critical importance to building owners and managers top this list. While the overall state of the economy and recovery dominate all discussions on Capitol Hill, other issues, such as energy and climate change, tax issues, and “card check” are all receiving attention from legislators. BOMA International’s advocacy team has a busy and exciting year ahead!
During the last session of Congress, BOMA International had some important victories. Most significant was the passage of leasehold depreciation, the capital gains extension, and the defeat of tax increases on carried interest. Our advocacy staff continues to achieve victories in securing the adoption of BOMA supported building codes in key jurisdictions.
The 2011-12 legislative calendar is hot with issues critical to BOMA International members - now is the time to get involved and get energized! Advocacy is a contact sport: mobilize your grassroots membership, call your legislators, visit their local offices, use your Legislative Action Center and write a letter. Have your voice heard by those who represent you TODAY!
Advocacy Updates
Letters & Comments
BOMA Testimonies