June 14, 2010Last week's economic news was mixed, with three of the six major indicators improving, one decelerating and two declining. (To read all of last week's indicators, see the Latest Economic Reports section below.) The most import reports last week were consumer status (May retail sales) and U.S. exports (April international trade). Both of these reports were negative.
Falling for the first time in eight months, the drop in retail sales in May was primarily driven by a large decrease in purchases at building supply stores and home centers after huge increases in March and April. These wild swings primarily reflect the effects of federal credits (administered by the states) for consumers to purchase energy efficient appliances, some of which have already begun to run out. In other areas, the May results were generally mixed.
On the trade front, both exports and imports fell in April. The fall in imports was expected, as consumer spending decelerated during the month. The drop in exports was mainly due to a drop in pharmaceuticals -- the largest monthly decrease going back to 2003. Given that two-thirds of U.S. pharmaceutical exports go to Europe, it is possible that the effects of the economic slowdown in Europe are starting to show up in U.S. export data. However, one month does not make a trend. It is premature to count out the export-led growth that has been a major factor in the current recovery.
As the chart above shows, the trend for U.S. exports has been impressive recently. U.S. goods exports (see green bars) have increased by 18.3 percent over the past 12 months -- the fastest 12-month pace in more than a dozen years. Meanwhile, imports are up 14.7 percent (see red bars). The strong rise in exports is due to several factors, including a competitive value of the dollar, which has averaged about 10 percent below its long-term average over the past six months, and rebounding growth abroad (see black line in chart above).
Dave Huether
Chief Economist
National Association of Manufacturers
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inventories held by businesses rose for a fourth consecutive month in April while total business sales increased for a 13th consecutive month ... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inventories held by businesses rose for a fourth consecutive month in April while total business sales increased for a 13th consecutive month ... continue
"Organized labor just flushed $10 million of their members' money down the toilet on a pointless exercise." - White House official referencing labor leaders’ efforts against the anti-EFCA
Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) - POLITICO, June 9, 2010
Employee “Forced” Choice Act (EFCA) / Labor Law
· Labor leaders and their allies remain committed to implementing the goals of the EFCA by any means necessary. As efforts to enact Labor’s highest priority through congressional means have been unsuccessful so far, EFCA supporters have turned to Executive Branch agencies to implement the goals of the legislation. We are particularly concerned with the efforts underway at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
· Craig Becker was seated to the NLRB through a recess appointment in March, and additional changes are in store. Although the current NLRB general counsel is a management-side attorney whose term expires in August, he has announced plans to leave the Board later this month. His departure could yield even further process and policy changes at the NLRB. With a 3-1 majority of labor union-side attorneys, plus prospects for a new general counsel, the NLRB chairwoman recently indicated that the Board is seeking to engage in the rare exercise of formal NLRB rulemaking that could significantly change the way our labor laws are administered.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inflation rose amid signs China's rebound from the global slump is slowing, and growth in investment and factory output slowed but still was at double-digit levels... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
China's Foreign Ministry said complaints by the U.S. government about Beijing's currency policy are overblown and that a rising yuan would not solve America's financial woes ... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Soft drink industry has to work together to make sure proposed soda taxes never come to pass, the chief financial officer of Coca-Cola Co. said Monday ... continue
House conferees to the financial services reform bill were named June 9, and Congress is hoping to pass the final bill before the July 4 recess. The NAM is still working closely with conferees from both Chambers to ensure the bill will not negatively impact manufacturers. In a letter to conferees, the NAM laid out requests, including changes to the derivatives title that would ensure business end-users are exempt from the definition of Major Swap Participant (MSP), an exemption for wholly-owned captive finance affiliates, repeal of the corporate governance provisions such as “Say on Pay” and proxy access rules, as well as changes to the systemic risk portion of the bill that could unintentionally extend banking-style regulations to manufacturers. To view the NAM’s letter to conferees, click here. Also included in the Senate financial reform bill is an amendment on conflict minerals that would require manufacturers to declare annually to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) if their products contain tantalum, tungsten, gold or tin that originated or may have originated from the Congo and adjoining countries. The NAM is working closely with the House and Senate to see how both bodies will approach the issue during conference.
Application Now Available - First-Come, First-Served!
The Healthcare Reform Act includes temporary reimbursements to sponsors of employment based health plans for early retiree medical claims. This early retiree reinsurance program is effective for claims incurred beginning June 1, 2010 and ends no later than January 1, 2014 (or sooner if the $5 billion in federal funding runs out). Reimbursements are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Click here to read the full alert.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Companies offering employee health insurance expect a steep jump in medical costs next year, and many will ask workers to share more of the expense, PricewaterhouseCoopers says ... continue
Note, this Federal Register notice includes Utah.
Federal Register /Vol. 75, No. 110 /Wednesday, June 9, 2010 /Rules and Regulations 32673
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 52 [EPA–HQ–OAR–2010–0409; FRL–9159–5]
Finding of Failure To Submit Section 110 State Implementation Plans for Interstate Transport for the 2006 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Fine Particulate Matter
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: EPA is making a finding that certain states have failed to submit State Implementation Plans (SIPs) to satisfy the attainment and maintenance interstate transport requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) with respect to the 2006 24-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter (24-hour PM2.5). Pursuant to the CAA, states are required to submit SIPs that satisfy the requirements of the CAA related to interstate transport of pollution. This document addresses two elements of that requirement. A state must address its significant contribution to nonattainment and its interference with maintenance of a NAAQS in any neighboring state. The CAA requires that states submit SIPs to meet the applicable requirements of the CAA within 3 years after the promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS, or within such shorter period as EPA may provide. On September 21, 2006, EPA promulgated a final rule establishing new standards for the 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS. At present, 29 states or territories have not yet submitted complete SIPs to satisfy the section 110(a) nonattainment and maintenance transport requirements. Through this action, EPA is making a finding of failure to submit these SIPs which creates a 2-year deadline for the promulgation of a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) by EPA unless, prior to that deadline, a state makes a submission to meet these two requirements of the CAA and EPA approves such submission.
DATES: The effective date of this rule is July 9, 2010.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
General questions concerning this final rule should be addressed to Ms. Gobeail McKinley, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Geographic Strategies Group, Mail Code C539–04, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; telephone (919) 541–5246; e-mail address: gobeail.mckinley@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: For questions related to a specific state, please contact the appropriate regional office:
E-VERIFY, READY OR NOT, IT’S HERE
June 14, 2010 – Utah Employers Council
On July 1, 2010 the Utah Private Employer Verification Act goes into effect, meaning Utah employers with 15+ employees should be using E-Verify. Don't fret, we've got you covered! On June 29, 2010 the Council will bring in from Washington D.C. a representative from the Department of Homeland Security. He will deliver a live presentation to guide you through when and how to use E-verify and how to navigate its brand new interface. You will have a chance to ask your questions in person, but we don't stop there. Attorney and Council President Monica Whalen will also educate you on the new Utah immigration law and what it means to you. Don't miss out on this special live presentation. For registration information, see the registration materials below.
THE EMPLOYERS COUNCIL
READY OR NOT, IT’S TIME TO E-VERIFY
SPECIAL ALERT
Have you heard of The Utah Private Employer Verification Act? Are you ready to comply on July 1, 2010? If not, we have your solution! The Employers Council is bringing in a representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship & Immigration Services Division to guide you through the process of using the newly redesigned E-Verify system. This live presentation offers you a chance to get direct answers to your questions. This seminar doesn’t stop there! Attorney and Council President, Monica Whalen, will also walk you
through the new Utah immigration law and what it means to you as an employer. If you are a private employer with 15 or more employees, then you will not want to miss this live presentation.
Topics to be covered include:
· Instruction on when and how to use the E-Verify System
· Important information Federal Contractors need to know
· Navigating the new face of E-Verify
· Requirements of the new Utah law and how it can impact your company
· Recommendations for compliance
Who should attend: Human resource professionals and all others who fill out the Form I-9 or will have a role in using E-Verify.
Certification: This program is approved for 2.75 general recertification hours toward PHR, SPHR, and GPHR recertification through HR Certification Institute.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
Name________________________________________________
Name________________________________________________
Name________________________________________________
Company_____________________________________________
Address______________________________________________
City/State/Zip__________________________________________
Phone_____________________ Fax ______________________
E-mail Address(es) of person(s) to receive reminder:
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
PAYMENT METHOD:
Cost: Only $99.00
____Check Enclosed
____Bill Me
____Charge Credit Card
____Visa ____Master Card ____Amer Exp
Credit Card #________________________________
Expiration Date ______________________________
Name on card _______________________________
Signature ___________________________________
Refund given if cancellation is received at least one week prior to seminar
Register for Ready or Not, It’s Time to E-Verify by:
E-mail: info@ecutah.org Mail: The Employers Council
Fax: 801-364-8915 175 W 200 S, Suite 2005
Phone: 801-364-8479 Salt Lake City, UT 84101
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Treasury Secretary said China has potential to become largest foreign market for U.S. exports, but he said the country must do more to dismantle unfair trade barriers ... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Senate rejected a challenge to Obama administration rules aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and other big polluters... continue
The House of Representatives passed legislation June 8 aimed at easing the way for the development of a hydroelectric project within the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Central Utah Project, a water resources management project in central and east-central Utah.
The Bonneville Unit Clean Hydropower Facilitation Act, H.R. 2008, removes an expectation that a project developer would have to pay the initial $161 million in profits from the sale of electricity to the federal government. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, and cosponsored by Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah.
"The language of the bill indefinitely defers a payment of $161 million to the federal government, but in practicality, it's a loan forgiveness," Alyson Heyrend, communications director for Matheson, said June 9. "They've removed this economic impediment," she said, adding that the hope is that a private developer now will be able to build the project without starting in a financial hole.
When the Central Utah Project was originally authorized in the 1950s, it was envisioned that the Diamond Fork system would be ideal for generating hydroelectric power in the tunnels that were dug, Heyrend explained. However, the requirement that a developer pay the government $161 million served as an economic roadblock.
Calling the bill a victory for Utah's need for additional clean, affordable electricity, Matheson said the legislation resolves roadblocks to the construction of hydroelectric power facilities that were included in the Central Utah Project.
"Any developer of power at Diamond Fork — which was always envisioned — faced an economic disadvantage, before installing any power turbines or building transmission lines," Matheson said in a June 8 news release. "This bill clears away that already-sunk cost and opens economic opportunity to the development of clean power."
Heyrend noted that while the Diamond Fork project originally was expected to have the capability of generating up to 50 MW, the amount of electricity generated would depend on the turbines that would be installed and the transmission lines that would be built.
Chaffetz said the bipartisan legislation will benefit the environment and taxpayers. "Hydropower is the original 'green' form of energy that has time and again kept the lights on in the West," he said. "Congress often speaks of energy security, but today we did something about it."
The legislation contains a reporting requirement which calls for the Secretary of the Interior to submit a report to Congress if hydropower production on the Diamond Fork System has not begun within 24 months after enactment of the bill. Under the provision, the report would be expected to provide the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources with reasons why production has not yet begun and a detailed timeline for future hydropower production.
Utah Republican Sens. Bob Bennett and Orrin Hatch cosponsored a companion bill, S. 1758, in the Senate, but no recent action has been taken on it.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Industrial output surged a surprise 17.6 percent in April over last year, as strong investment activity returns Asia's third-largest economy to pre-crisis levels of growth ... continue
June 14, 2010 - NAM
The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) President and CEO John Engler today issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s announcement to stop new deepwater oil drilling permits, cancel existing leases for expansion in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) and suspend current exploration:
“Manufacturers believe it is critically important to understand the causes of the Gulf of Mexico accident. However, it is a mistake to put a moratorium on exploration and development of our nation’s oil and natural gas resources. We believe the Administration’s decision to cancel existing leases will set our country back in achieving economic security and energy independence.
The expansion and development of the OCS is vital to affordable, reliable energy and the long-term health of our economy and prosperity of American workers.
Manufacturers will continue to work with the Administration and Congress to lift the moratorium and expedite delivery of these valuable resources to American consumers.”
The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Executive Vice President Jay Timmons issued the following statement on Senator Lisa Murkowski’s (R-Alaska) “resolution of disapproval” to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from regulating greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act: Full Story »
June 14, 2010 - MarketWatch
"US manufacturing is on a tear, one of the few unambiguous positives in an economy that's still struggling to recover from the deepest downturn in generations. In some ways, this economic recovery fits the classic mold, as factories are running overtime to restock inventories depleted during the panic and to meet renewed demand for capital equipment and consumer goods," this according to MarketWatch.
Economists at MarketWatch suggest this is "a familiar story of the business cycle: Excesses in production lead to excessive cutbacks, sowing the seeds for the eventual recovery." But "the missing piece this time, of course, is housing," which "after most recessions" has been "one of the main engines pulling the economy forward, as lower interest rates spur demand, which must be met by new construction. Not so this time around." Even with "the herculean efforts by the government...the sector are still severely out-of-balance."
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Labor Dept. said new claims for jobless benefits fell for third straight week and workers continuing to claim jobless benefits fell by largest amount in almost a year ... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Truck sales are an indicator of nation's financial health -- when times are good, contractors buy more and weekend haulers gravitate to them even though cars get better mileage ... continue
Several Democratic Congressmen, labor groups and progressive think-tanks are urging the Administration to enact a “High Road Contracting Policy” through an executive order. Such a proposal would create a system in which the federal government scores the employment practices and labor law violation histories of private businesses that seek contracts with the government. Bids for contracts then would be evaluated by these terms, and bidders would be granted preferential treatment in bid awards on the basis of factors that are not related to the businesses’ ability to deliver the terms of the contract. This proposed change to the federal contracting system would create barriers for smaller-sized employers to compete and likely would increase costs to the federal government. As proponents continue to ramp up their efforts, the NAM is monitoring the situation closely and is highlighting the dangers of this misguided approach with key policymakers.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Big drop in May retail sales was the largest decline in eight months, raising new concerns about the durability of the economic recovery ... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Method for tracking carbon dioxide underground gives government an important tool as scientists try to keep greenhouse gases from crowding atmosphere ... continue
Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Max Baucus (D-MT) has introduced an amended version of the House-passed extenders package, H.R. 4213. The amendment includes a scaled-back version of one of the main revenue raisers that would increase taxes on carried interest. Despite this compromise effort, it is still unclear whether the Senate will have the 60 votes necessary for passage. NAM-supported provisions include extension of the research and development (R&D) tax credit, energy efficiency and renewable energy tax credits and other incentives, a provision that will allow struggling companies to use their alternative minimum tax (AMT) credits and the extension through 2012 of the Build America Bonds program. The NAM opposes other provisions including the $14 billion in punitive changes in international tax laws and increased taxes on oil and gas companies. To view the June 7 letter the NAM sent to the full Senate.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Trade deficit at highest level in 16 months as exports fell, a potentially worrisome sign that Europe's debt troubles are beginning to hurt U.S. manufacturers... continue
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Union president said UAW will continue fight for legislation to make it easier for workers to organize as he urged members to back union-friendly candidates in November ... continue
WORKERS COMPENSATION FUND HONORS SAFETY EFFORTS
June 14, 2010 – UMA
Last week Workers Compensation Fund honored companies and individuals who emphasize protecting their employees from injury. WCF President and CEO, Ray Pickup said to the luncheon audience, “These companies have embraced the challenge of making their workplaces as safe as possible.”
He prefaced the awards ceremony by telling the audience: “In the United States, in 2008, approximately 3.7 million workers were injured or became ill as a result of their work; this is nearly 10,000 work place injuries or illnesses each day. During 2008, there were 5,071 fatal work injuries; 68 of these fatalities were in Utah. The annual economic burden of workplace injuries and illness has been estimated to be as much as $155 billion. By some estimates, this exceeds the annual cost of cancer. At our Company, we see, firsthand, the importance of workplace safety and the unfortunate results of ignoring it. On average, we receive more than 50 reports of workplace injuries each day.”
He continued, “No one ever expects to be injured in an accident. But, the physical, emotional and economic toll of workplace injuries can be devastating for individuals and their families, as well as the companies for which they work. Prevention of accidents is not only possible; it is critical. For this reason, Workers Compensation Fund created the Charles A. Caine Safety Awards to recognize companies who are leaders in workplace safety.”
Companies honored at the annual awards luncheon were selected through a nomination process and earned the award based on their safety record and their success in creating a safe workplace. The winners are categorized in the following areas: construction, trade and manufacturing, transportation, service, and public entities. Of the seventeen recipients were ten UMA member companies, including: Frontier Drilling, K&J Steel, Mechanical Service and Systems, Mike Zimmerman Well Service, Newspaper Agency Corporation, SanSegal Sportswear, USANA Health Sciences, Zero Manufacturing, Zions Bancorporation and Hunter Douglas.
UMA congratulates all the safety awards recipients. We are pleased so many were involved in the UMA/Workers Compensation Fund Program.
BUSINESS INVENTORIES, SALES RISE IN APRIL
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inventories held by businesses rose for a fourth consecutive month in April while total business sales increased for a 13th consecutive month ... continue
BUSINESS INVENTORIES, SALES RISE IN APRIL
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inventories held by businesses rose for a fourth consecutive month in April while total business sales increased for a 13th consecutive month ... continue
CARD CHECK EFFORTS EXENSIVE FOR UNIONS
June 14, 2010 – NAM Labor Law Update"Organized labor just flushed $10 million of their members' money down the toilet on a pointless exercise." - White House official referencing labor leaders’ efforts against the anti-EFCA
Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) - POLITICO, June 9, 2010
Employee “Forced” Choice Act (EFCA) / Labor Law
· Labor leaders and their allies remain committed to implementing the goals of the EFCA by any means necessary. As efforts to enact Labor’s highest priority through congressional means have been unsuccessful so far, EFCA supporters have turned to Executive Branch agencies to implement the goals of the legislation. We are particularly concerned with the efforts underway at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
· Craig Becker was seated to the NLRB through a recess appointment in March, and additional changes are in store. Although the current NLRB general counsel is a management-side attorney whose term expires in August, he has announced plans to leave the Board later this month. His departure could yield even further process and policy changes at the NLRB. With a 3-1 majority of labor union-side attorneys, plus prospects for a new general counsel, the NLRB chairwoman recently indicated that the Board is seeking to engage in the rare exercise of formal NLRB rulemaking that could significantly change the way our labor laws are administered.
CHINA'S INDUSTRIAL GROWTH SLOWS IN MAY
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Inflation rose amid signs China's rebound from the global slump is slowing, and growth in investment and factory output slowed but still was at double-digit levels... continue
BEIJING: RAISING YUAN WON'T HELP U.S.
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
China's Foreign Ministry said complaints by the U.S. government about Beijing's currency policy are overblown and that a rising yuan would not solve America's financial woes ... continue
COCA-COLA SAYS INDUSTRY MUST FIGHT SODA TAXES
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Soft drink industry has to work together to make sure proposed soda taxes never come to pass, the chief financial officer of Coca-Cola Co. said Monday ... continue
CONFERENCE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES BILL BEGINS DEBATE
June 14, 2010 – NAM Capital BriefingHouse conferees to the financial services reform bill were named June 9, and Congress is hoping to pass the final bill before the July 4 recess. The NAM is still working closely with conferees from both Chambers to ensure the bill will not negatively impact manufacturers. In a letter to conferees, the NAM laid out requests, including changes to the derivatives title that would ensure business end-users are exempt from the definition of Major Swap Participant (MSP), an exemption for wholly-owned captive finance affiliates, repeal of the corporate governance provisions such as “Say on Pay” and proxy access rules, as well as changes to the systemic risk portion of the bill that could unintentionally extend banking-style regulations to manufacturers. To view the NAM’s letter to conferees, click here. Also included in the Senate financial reform bill is an amendment on conflict minerals that would require manufacturers to declare annually to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) if their products contain tantalum, tungsten, gold or tin that originated or may have originated from the Congo and adjoining countries. The NAM is working closely with the House and Senate to see how both bodies will approach the issue during conference.
EMPLOYER REIMBURSEMENTS FOR EARLY RETIREE MEDICAL CLAIMS
June 14, 2010 – HRO AlertApplication Now Available - First-Come, First-Served!
The Healthcare Reform Act includes temporary reimbursements to sponsors of employment based health plans for early retiree medical claims. This early retiree reinsurance program is effective for claims incurred beginning June 1, 2010 and ends no later than January 1, 2014 (or sooner if the $5 billion in federal funding runs out). Reimbursements are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Click here to read the full alert.
EMPLOYERS TO SEE 2011 MEDICAL COSTS SURGE
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Companies offering employee health insurance expect a steep jump in medical costs next year, and many will ask workers to share more of the expense, PricewaterhouseCoopers says ... continue
EPA PUBLISHES FINAL RULE ON PM10 SIP
June 14, 2010 – Federal RegisterNote, this Federal Register notice includes Utah.
Federal Register /Vol. 75, No. 110 /Wednesday, June 9, 2010 /Rules and Regulations 32673
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 52 [EPA–HQ–OAR–2010–0409; FRL–9159–5]
Finding of Failure To Submit Section 110 State Implementation Plans for Interstate Transport for the 2006 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Fine Particulate Matter
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: EPA is making a finding that certain states have failed to submit State Implementation Plans (SIPs) to satisfy the attainment and maintenance interstate transport requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) with respect to the 2006 24-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter (24-hour PM2.5). Pursuant to the CAA, states are required to submit SIPs that satisfy the requirements of the CAA related to interstate transport of pollution. This document addresses two elements of that requirement. A state must address its significant contribution to nonattainment and its interference with maintenance of a NAAQS in any neighboring state. The CAA requires that states submit SIPs to meet the applicable requirements of the CAA within 3 years after the promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS, or within such shorter period as EPA may provide. On September 21, 2006, EPA promulgated a final rule establishing new standards for the 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS. At present, 29 states or territories have not yet submitted complete SIPs to satisfy the section 110(a) nonattainment and maintenance transport requirements. Through this action, EPA is making a finding of failure to submit these SIPs which creates a 2-year deadline for the promulgation of a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) by EPA unless, prior to that deadline, a state makes a submission to meet these two requirements of the CAA and EPA approves such submission.
DATES: The effective date of this rule is July 9, 2010.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
General questions concerning this final rule should be addressed to Ms. Gobeail McKinley, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Geographic Strategies Group, Mail Code C539–04, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; telephone (919) 541–5246; e-mail address: gobeail.mckinley@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: For questions related to a specific state, please contact the appropriate regional office:
E-VERIFY, READY OR NOT, IT’S HERE
On July 1, 2010 the Utah Private Employer Verification Act goes into effect, meaning Utah employers with 15+ employees should be using E-Verify. Don't fret, we've got you covered! On June 29, 2010 the Council will bring in from Washington D.C. a representative from the Department of Homeland Security. He will deliver a live presentation to guide you through when and how to use E-verify and how to navigate its brand new interface. You will have a chance to ask your questions in person, but we don't stop there. Attorney and Council President Monica Whalen will also educate you on the new Utah immigration law and what it means to you. Don't miss out on this special live presentation. For registration information, see the registration materials below.
THE EMPLOYERS COUNCIL
READY OR NOT, IT’S TIME TO E-VERIFY
SPECIAL ALERT
Have you heard of The Utah Private Employer Verification Act? Are you ready to comply on July 1, 2010? If not, we have your solution! The Employers Council is bringing in a representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship & Immigration Services Division to guide you through the process of using the newly redesigned E-Verify system. This live presentation offers you a chance to get direct answers to your questions. This seminar doesn’t stop there! Attorney and Council President, Monica Whalen, will also walk you
through the new Utah immigration law and what it means to you as an employer. If you are a private employer with 15 or more employees, then you will not want to miss this live presentation.
Topics to be covered include:
· Instruction on when and how to use the E-Verify System
· Important information Federal Contractors need to know
· Navigating the new face of E-Verify
· Requirements of the new Utah law and how it can impact your company
· Recommendations for compliance
Who should attend: Human resource professionals and all others who fill out the Form I-9 or will have a role in using E-Verify.
Certification: This program is approved for 2.75 general recertification hours toward PHR, SPHR, and GPHR recertification through HR Certification Institute.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
Name________________________________________________
Name________________________________________________
Name________________________________________________
Company_____________________________________________
Address______________________________________________
City/State/Zip__________________________________________
Phone_____________________ Fax ______________________
E-mail Address(es) of person(s) to receive reminder:
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
PAYMENT METHOD:
Cost: Only $99.00
____Check Enclosed
____Bill Me
____Charge Credit Card
____Visa ____Master Card ____Amer Exp
Credit Card #________________________________
Expiration Date ______________________________
Name on card _______________________________
Signature ___________________________________
Refund given if cancellation is received at least one week prior to seminar
Register for Ready or Not, It’s Time to E-Verify by:
E-mail: info@ecutah.org Mail: The Employers Council
Fax: 801-364-8915 175 W 200 S, Suite 2005
Phone: 801-364-8479 Salt Lake City, UT 84101
GEITHNER: CHINA MUST LOSE TRADE BARRIERS
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Treasury Secretary said China has potential to become largest foreign market for U.S. exports, but he said the country must do more to dismantle unfair trade barriers ... continue
GREENHOUSE GAS RULES SURVIVE SENATE VOTE
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Senate rejected a challenge to Obama administration rules aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and other big polluters... continue
HOUSE PASSES BILL TO EASE WAY FOR DEVELOPING UTAH HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
June 14, 2010 - Kathleen HartThe House of Representatives passed legislation June 8 aimed at easing the way for the development of a hydroelectric project within the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Central Utah Project, a water resources management project in central and east-central Utah.
The Bonneville Unit Clean Hydropower Facilitation Act, H.R. 2008, removes an expectation that a project developer would have to pay the initial $161 million in profits from the sale of electricity to the federal government. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, and cosponsored by Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah.
"The language of the bill indefinitely defers a payment of $161 million to the federal government, but in practicality, it's a loan forgiveness," Alyson Heyrend, communications director for Matheson, said June 9. "They've removed this economic impediment," she said, adding that the hope is that a private developer now will be able to build the project without starting in a financial hole.
When the Central Utah Project was originally authorized in the 1950s, it was envisioned that the Diamond Fork system would be ideal for generating hydroelectric power in the tunnels that were dug, Heyrend explained. However, the requirement that a developer pay the government $161 million served as an economic roadblock.
Calling the bill a victory for Utah's need for additional clean, affordable electricity, Matheson said the legislation resolves roadblocks to the construction of hydroelectric power facilities that were included in the Central Utah Project.
"Any developer of power at Diamond Fork — which was always envisioned — faced an economic disadvantage, before installing any power turbines or building transmission lines," Matheson said in a June 8 news release. "This bill clears away that already-sunk cost and opens economic opportunity to the development of clean power."
Heyrend noted that while the Diamond Fork project originally was expected to have the capability of generating up to 50 MW, the amount of electricity generated would depend on the turbines that would be installed and the transmission lines that would be built.
Chaffetz said the bipartisan legislation will benefit the environment and taxpayers. "Hydropower is the original 'green' form of energy that has time and again kept the lights on in the West," he said. "Congress often speaks of energy security, but today we did something about it."
The legislation contains a reporting requirement which calls for the Secretary of the Interior to submit a report to Congress if hydropower production on the Diamond Fork System has not begun within 24 months after enactment of the bill. Under the provision, the report would be expected to provide the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources with reasons why production has not yet begun and a detailed timeline for future hydropower production.
Utah Republican Sens. Bob Bennett and Orrin Hatch cosponsored a companion bill, S. 1758, in the Senate, but no recent action has been taken on it.
INDIA'S INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT SURGES IN APRIL
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Industrial output surged a surprise 17.6 percent in April over last year, as strong investment activity returns Asia's third-largest economy to pre-crisis levels of growth ... continue
MANUFACTURERS CONCERNED ABOUT MORATORIUM ON OFFSHORE EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Offshore Resources Are Critical To Energy And Economic SecurityJune 14, 2010 - NAM
The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) President and CEO John Engler today issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s announcement to stop new deepwater oil drilling permits, cancel existing leases for expansion in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) and suspend current exploration:
“Manufacturers believe it is critically important to understand the causes of the Gulf of Mexico accident. However, it is a mistake to put a moratorium on exploration and development of our nation’s oil and natural gas resources. We believe the Administration’s decision to cancel existing leases will set our country back in achieving economic security and energy independence.
The expansion and development of the OCS is vital to affordable, reliable energy and the long-term health of our economy and prosperity of American workers.
Manufacturers will continue to work with the Administration and Congress to lift the moratorium and expedite delivery of these valuable resources to American consumers.”
MANUFACTURERS URGE SENATE TO PASS MURKOWSKI RESOLUTION
June 14, 2010 - Jeff Ostermayer - NAMThe National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Executive Vice President Jay Timmons issued the following statement on Senator Lisa Murkowski’s (R-Alaska) “resolution of disapproval” to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from regulating greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act: Full Story »
June 14, 2010 - MarketWatch
"US manufacturing is on a tear, one of the few unambiguous positives in an economy that's still struggling to recover from the deepest downturn in generations. In some ways, this economic recovery fits the classic mold, as factories are running overtime to restock inventories depleted during the panic and to meet renewed demand for capital equipment and consumer goods," this according to MarketWatch.
Economists at MarketWatch suggest this is "a familiar story of the business cycle: Excesses in production lead to excessive cutbacks, sowing the seeds for the eventual recovery." But "the missing piece this time, of course, is housing," which "after most recessions" has been "one of the main engines pulling the economy forward, as lower interest rates spur demand, which must be met by new construction. Not so this time around." Even with "the herculean efforts by the government...the sector are still severely out-of-balance."
NEW U.S. JOBLESS CLAIMS CONTINUE TO DECLINE
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Labor Dept. said new claims for jobless benefits fell for third straight week and workers continuing to claim jobless benefits fell by largest amount in almost a year ... continue
PICKUP SALES PROVIDE CLUES ON ECONOMIC HEALTH
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Truck sales are an indicator of nation's financial health -- when times are good, contractors buy more and weekend haulers gravitate to them even though cars get better mileage ... continue
PROPOSED CONTRACTING POLICY SEEKS TO IMPLEMENT SWEEPING EMPLOYMENT POLICY REQUIREMENTS
June 14, 2010 – NAM Capital BriefingSeveral Democratic Congressmen, labor groups and progressive think-tanks are urging the Administration to enact a “High Road Contracting Policy” through an executive order. Such a proposal would create a system in which the federal government scores the employment practices and labor law violation histories of private businesses that seek contracts with the government. Bids for contracts then would be evaluated by these terms, and bidders would be granted preferential treatment in bid awards on the basis of factors that are not related to the businesses’ ability to deliver the terms of the contract. This proposed change to the federal contracting system would create barriers for smaller-sized employers to compete and likely would increase costs to the federal government. As proponents continue to ramp up their efforts, the NAM is monitoring the situation closely and is highlighting the dangers of this misguided approach with key policymakers.
RETAIL SALES FALL 1.2 PERCENT IN MAY
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Big drop in May retail sales was the largest decline in eight months, raising new concerns about the durability of the economic recovery ... continue
SCIENTISTS DEVELOP METHOD TO TRACK CARBON DIOXIDE
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Method for tracking carbon dioxide underground gives government an important tool as scientists try to keep greenhouse gases from crowding atmosphere ... continue
SENATE COULD APPROVE EXTENDERS PACKAGE
June 14, 2010 – NAM Capital BriefingChairman of the Senate Finance Committee Max Baucus (D-MT) has introduced an amended version of the House-passed extenders package, H.R. 4213. The amendment includes a scaled-back version of one of the main revenue raisers that would increase taxes on carried interest. Despite this compromise effort, it is still unclear whether the Senate will have the 60 votes necessary for passage. NAM-supported provisions include extension of the research and development (R&D) tax credit, energy efficiency and renewable energy tax credits and other incentives, a provision that will allow struggling companies to use their alternative minimum tax (AMT) credits and the extension through 2012 of the Build America Bonds program. The NAM opposes other provisions including the $14 billion in punitive changes in international tax laws and increased taxes on oil and gas companies. To view the June 7 letter the NAM sent to the full Senate.
U.S. TRADE DEFICIT RISES, EXPORTS SLIP
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Trade deficit at highest level in 16 months as exports fell, a potentially worrisome sign that Europe's debt troubles are beginning to hurt U.S. manufacturers... continue
UAW CONTINUES PUSH FOR CARD-CHECK LEGISLATION
June 14, 2010 – Today in Manufacturing.net
Union president said UAW will continue fight for legislation to make it easier for workers to organize as he urged members to back union-friendly candidates in November ... continue
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