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HEADLINES 

deathtax

DEATH TAX REFORM AMENDMENT BACK IN PLAY
The clock continues to tick as the 111th Congress enters its final few months, and with it, the final days America enjoys full repeal of the federal estate tax (death tax). As lawmakers scramble to pass a permanent "reform" resolution before the end of the year, NUCA and the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition (FBETC) are doing whatever possible to pass a reform measure before the 2001 estate tax levels return in full force, meaning a 55% top rate and a menial $1 million exemption. In a letter sent to the Senate on July 19, the FBETC encouraged senators to support an amendment to a small business lending bill (HR 5297) offered by Sens. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) and Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.). The amendment would provide a $5 million exemption (per spouse) and a permanent 35% top rate, both of which would be phased in over the next 10 years. The letter stated that "the significant costs to plan for the estate tax reduces investment in business growth and job creation, and is only made worse by the current uncertainty surrounding the tax.  Without a permanent solution, there are no assurances that these businesses and family farms will continue to operate in future generations." It's crunch time for the estate tax issue, and NUCA will continue to work with the FBETC to ensure that Congress passes legislation that will at least reform the death tax to a certain extent. Make no mistake, the push for full repeal will continue into future sessions of Congress.

MINING LEGISLATION CARRIES OSHA RAMIFICATIONS
On July 21, the House Education and Labor Committee passed the Robert C. Byrd Miner Safety and Health Act of 2010 (HR 5663). The bill updates America's mine health and safety laws in the wake of the recent mining tragedy in West Virginia. You will recall that 29 miners were killed at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch Mine; the worst coal mine disaster in America in 40 years. While the legislation focuses on mining operations, NUCA and the Coalition for Workplace Safety (CWS) are concerned with the correlation to OSHA regulations. In a letter sent to leaders of the committee on July 20, the CWS cautioned Congress that "the legislation, while primarily addressing issues with mine safety, would result in the most sweeping changes to the OSH Act since its inception. Unfortunately the provisions of this bill are not the right approach to assist both employers and employees in our shared goal of maintaining safe and healthful workplaces." Provisions regarding mandatory abatement procedures, increased civil and criminal penalties, and whistleblower protections are among the issues included in this legislation. Reminding lawmakers about the increased safety record of America's employers, the CWS said "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 1994 to 2008 the total recordable case rates for workplaces injuries and illnesses have been cut in half (improved by 53.6 percent), and workplace fatalities are now at their lowest level ever."

NUCA will continue to monitor the progress of HR 5663 and actively oppose the legislation as long as the related OSHA implications remain in the bill.

speakers

NUCA ANNOUNCES KEYNOTE SPEAKER LINEUP FOR EXPO '11
Get ready  for a terrific lineup of speakers for EXPO '11 - The Executive Experience!  Political analyst Charlie Cook will start off the speaker series covering the results of the mid-term elections and how they will impact our industry and the political climate in DC.  On day two, quadriplegic olympian and motivational speaker Mark Zupan will inspire you to look beyond your obstacles and overcome hurdles to your personal success.  The last day is all about your business.  Senior financial analyst Dale West will show you how to position your company to avoid unnecessary lawsuits, avoid over paying taxes and estate planning.  Don't miss out on everything that EXPO '11 has to offer - and remember, register before July 30 for the Super Early Bird registration discount.  Click here for hotel information, registration and the schedule of events.  See you in Puerto Rico! (Photo: l-r, Charlie Cook, Mark Zupan and Dale West)

NUCA PUBLICATIONS 

Utility Contractor Magazine

NUCA Report a weekly e-newsletter bringing you the latest in industry news, highlights of upcoming events, and valuable resources available to you through NUCA. 

  Washington Report, a bi-weekly electronic report of news and commentary on legislative happenings and issues of interest to underground utility contractors.

Safety Newsletter,
a bi-monthly newsletter of safety guidelines and best practices.

Water News Update, daily blog designed to raise awareness about America's deteriorating water/wastewater infrastructure and mobilize the public to demand that Congress do something about it.

FEATURED EVENTS

NUCA Board of Directors Meeting
October 14 -15, 2010
Chicago Marriott O’Hare
Chicago, IL
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NUCA Safety Directors Forum
October 26 -28, 2010
Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
LAs Vegas, NV
Click here for more information and to register
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Utility Construction EXPO ’11 – “The Executive Experience”
January 18 - 21, 2011
El Conquistador Resort
Las Croabas, Puerto Rico 
Click here for more information

 

FEATURED NUCA STORE ITEM 

Pipelayer Installation Training Series - Chapter 1: Job Layout
The NUCA Foundation proudly announces the release of “Job Layout,” the next CD in the five-CD Pipe Installation Training Series.  This interactive, 60-90-minute, computer-based training CD is divided into sections on Safety, Material Layout & Handling, Production & Timing, Tools and Protecting the Installation.--that a “student” must successfully navigate before taking an exam.  The training CD is designed for easy comprehension by semi-experienced pipe crew members.  Click here to order

Click here to view the Pipelayer Installation Training Series promotional video (Please Note: Based on the bandwidth of your computer, this video can take up to 5 minutes to upload)

National Utility Contractors Association
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Fax: 703-358-9307
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