TAB primes 2017 legislative agenda

posted on 10.24.2016

 - Save the Date: Jan. 24

Texas broadcasters, mark your calendars to be in Austin on Tuesday, Jan. 24, for TAB’s biennial Legislative Day Conference. The event sets the stage for advancing TAB’s legislative agenda safeguarding broadcast journalists, fending off onerous advertising restrictions and protecting the extensive, hard-won tax policies and newsroom protections key to stations’ ability to inform, entertain and protect local communities.

The Jan. 24 conference features a deep-dive into major state policy issues and broadcast-specific concerns, concluding with the Lawmaker/Broadcaster Luncheon which is popular for what it doesn’t have – any speakers. Instead, lawmakers are seated with their local broadcasters so they can discuss issues important to their communities and briefly review TAB’s policy interests.

The program starts promptly at 10 a.m. and concludes by 2 p.m. at the Austin Sheraton at the Capitol, just blocks from the Capitol and TAB’s offices. A very small number of discounted hotel rooms are available for Monday night, Jan. 23.

Station owners, general managers and news directors should attend. TAB registration opens Nov. 1. Fees are $50, increasing to $75 on Dec. 19. There’s no charge for lawmakers to attend.

Broadcaster participation in this event is imperative to TAB’s success in the legislative session, whether advancing bills or fending off attacks. Lawmakers respond best to their constituents – especially when time is short, and the luncheon is a great venue to strengthen important relationships and showcase the breadth and depth of the Texas broadcast industry.

Key Legislative Calendar Dates

Nov. 8 – General Election
Nov. 14 – Pre-filing of Bills Commences
Jan. 10 – Legislature Convenes
May 29 – Legislature Adjourns

Questions? Contact TAB’s Oscar Rodriguez or call (512) 322-9944.

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