In spite of the nuances of the corona virus, CAWA , in its adjustments to a new and unusual reality, still had a very productive and successful year in 2020.

See results in the enclosed 2020 annual report to the membership (here).

Each year brings new challenges and opportunities for the economy and the business community. The following (see here) is a list of some of the most important government changes that will affect your business and personal returns in the new year. Source: Wyman & Little, Inc - Accounting & Consulting

Arizona’s new high income tax from Proposition 208 is bound to discourage new investment, harm thousands of small businesses, and is unconstitutional, two of the state’s leading economic and legal experts told the real estate community last week. While the tax is intended to provide funding for education, it is flawed in many aspects and will hurt education in the long run if measures aren’t taken to mitigate its impacts, said Jim Rounds, an economist and policy analyst who spoke at a virtual breakfast meeting of the nonprofit Valley Partnership, the voice of the real estate industry in the metro Phoenix region. Learn more here. Source: Chamber Business News

CAWA’s government team continues its efforts to educate motorists in California, Nevada and Arizona about their warranty rights under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.

In California, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) notice on auto warranties and routine maintenance appears on the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) website under Consumer Information, appears in a blog post on the Department of Consumer Affairs website and has been shared repeatedly by BAR on their Twitter and Facebook accounts. In addition, CAWA in partnership with the Car Care Council, developed a customized 30 second video spot that ran on the Department of Motor Vehicles Motor Vehicle Network, which is shared with customers waiting for service, viewed on flat screen TVs in waiting rooms in 178 field offices in the state.

In Arizona, our team secured the FTC Warranty Rights notice on the Arizona Attorney General’s website in the Consumer Protection/Auto Purchases section.

And in Nevada, our team continues to work with the Nevada Attorney General’s office to secure a similar notice on the consumer section of their website as well as explore other ways to educate Nevada motorists including a similar video to their Department of Motor Vehicle field offices.

For more information contact CAWA Director of Government Affairs Jennifer Zins at jenniferzins@gmail.com.

Beyond Association meetings and a YANG Regional Meet-Up, guest speakers will be:

See the registration information here.

CAWA thanks the following sponsors of its virtual leadership meeting: Interstate Batteries, Hart Marx Advisors, APA Engineering, Parts Authority, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Mando Aftermarket North America and the Group (Pronto, Federated Auto Parts and the Automotive Distribution Network). It is appreciated.

On January 8, 2021, Cal/OSHA issued a much-awaited second set of FAQs to its COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). While the updated FAQs address several important topics such as “exclusion pay,” testing requirements, outbreaks, and the “exposed workplace,” there are still many unanswered questions as employers seek to comply with the Division’s ETS. Employers should familiarize themselves with the guidance offered by the FAQs and seek the assistance of experienced counsel for any questions regarding compliance. The following (here) are ten key takeaways. Source: Littler

Don’t Wait for Your Renewal to Get a Quote!

CAWA members in Nevada with 2 (unrelated) to 50 full-time employees can now offer insurance coverage for their employees and their families with a high-quality, affordable Association Health Plan medical plan from Prominence. Our Association Health Plans allow small employers to join as one entity to purchase the type of coverage that is traditionally available to large group employers. This results in less expensive and richer health plan options that can then be passed along to the employee. See details here.

Either you or your current broker should contact Mike Dillon in Nevada to assist you at mdillon@dillonhealth.com or 775.829.2494.

Group dental insurance & life insurance options are often limited for smaller employers, but not when you take advantage of group buying power through the CAWA's exclusive programs. With no contribution required by the employer, and only one enrollee needed for coverage, this plan is a great way to enhance the benefits you provide your employees. Even if you aren't offering benefits, you can roll out this plan quickly and easily for any employees interested. And with multiple options to choose from, there is a price point for every budget.

Dental Program Features:

Life Program Features:

Contact Mat Nabity of CoreMark Insurance for more details or request a quote here.

Do I have to have to file a workers’ compensation claim every time one of my employees tests positive for COVID-19? No. The new law in California that went into effect September 19, 2020 requires an employer to report a positive COVID-19 test to their workers’ compensation carrier within three business days from when the employer knows or reasonably should have known that an employee has tested positive. All the employer is required to do is to report a positive test result and the carrier will determine whether an “outbreak” has occurred, thereby triggering the presumption of a workplace injury. See more information here. Source: Our Friends at the California Chamber of Commerce

Oakland—Cal/OSHA is reminding employers in California to post their 2020 annual summary of work-related injuries and illnesses, including those related to COVID-19, in a visible and easily accessible area at each worksite. The Form 300A summary must be posted each year from February 1 through April 30. See more details here. Source: California Department of Industrial Relations

For more than 30 years AmeriTrust Group, Inc. has been partnering with associations and agents to deliver national and state association insurance programs (see here).

We understand associations work diligently to provide membership value. We are honored to serve as a trusted partner in creating value through the delivery of insurance products and services. See Glen Dailey of Armstrong & Associates at 800.632.2777 or gdailey@armstrongprofessional.com.