E-news  May 1, 2007

NAPSLO's Day on the Hill
Approximately 20 representatives of NAPSLO and B&D Consulting, NAPSLO's Washington lobbying firm, took part in NAPSLO's "Day on the Hill" in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 24, visiting members of Congress and their staff.

The event was scheduled to help educate staff and legislators about NAPSLO's positions on current legislation before Congress. Earlier this year two bills (HR 1065 in the House and S 929 in the Senate) concerning federal regulation of surplus lines insurance were introduced.

"This event gave NAPSLO members the opportunity to meet and talk with legislators about the current issues," said President Bill Newton. "We believe we made great strides in informing members about our industry and our views."

President Newton attended the meetings along with Vice President Mary Ellen Rozzell, Executive Director Richard Bouhan, Director of Government Relations Steve Stephan, Legislative Co-Chair Tom Mulligan, and several members of the NAPSLO Board and Legislative Committee.

Convention Registration
Planning for the 2007 Convention in New Orleans, October 3-6, is nearly complete and registration materials will be sent to members in early June. Based on early responses and planning by members another large turnout is expected. A number of special items have been set up for the convention and are noted below.

• A special panel discussion featuring top Brokers and Carrier representatives to discuss What's Ahead for the E&S Wholesaler?  has been set for Thursday from 10-11:30 a.m.    
• James Carville and Mary Matalin will be the speakers at the Derek Hughes/NAPSLO Educational Foundation Lecture on Friday morning.   
• A limited number of tables in the Broker's Lounge will be available for a fee for member firms to reserve.   
• NAPSLO has arranged with Habitat For Humanity to set up a program on Saturday morning for attendees to assist on a renovation project, or make a financial contribution.   
• On- and Off-Site hospitality functions and receptions will be allowed on Friday. On Thursday, all functions and meetings scheduled during the day and in the evening are requested to be held On-Site. 

Keep up-to-date on with NAPSLO's blog
Keep up-to-date with what's going on in NAPSLO and the surplus lines industry by visiting the NAPSLO blog. Recent items posted include a review of a stamping offices report showing premium volume increased 7.1% in 2006; changes in Missouri and Utah regarding tax collection and courtesy filings; and NAPSLO convention news.

The blog provides information on a quicker basis than the E-news and NAPSLO News so remember to check it often.