The year 2015 is off to a racing start on both the federal and state level, with federal issues more visible, but more quiet development on the state level.
FEDERAL LEVEL
With the new Congress in office and a Republican majority in both the House of Representatives and now also the Senate, the dynamics of what issues move through Congress will likely change; however, passed legislation will require approval by President Obama, which means that it is not so easy to predict if and when negotiations on party positions and issues will be successful.
There is one issue that is important for you to weigh in on TODAY, as the House is already planning a vote tomorrow. AH&LA sent out a notification yesterday, and again this morning; however, we want to be sure that all of our lodging members are aware and contacting their Congressional representatives. Currently, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) contains a definition relating to coverage that states "full-time" is employees working 30 hours a week or more. For months, AH&LA and state lodging associations such as WH&LA have been
seeking support on the federal level to change the definition of full-time in the ACA to 40 hours per week. Please see AH&LA's notice below and click on the link today to help to generate more support from Wisconsin Congressional Representatives:
... the House is also scheduled to vote this upcoming Thursday on H.R. 30, the "Save American Workers Act" which will restore the traditional definition of full-time employment under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) back to the 40-hours per week which the American workforce has used by for decades. As you know, changing this definition back to 40 hours has been one of AH&LA's priorities since the ACA became law as it would provide much needed scheduling flexibility to both employers and employees and reflects the variable nature of the lodging industry workforce. This is an excellent opportunity for us to influence the outcome of this vote.
Below is a link that was sent out earlier urging our members to take action, contact their respective members of Congress and urge their support for this critical legislation. I ask each of you to take a couple minutes out of your busy day to click on the link, and ensure your voice is heard!
CLICK HERE
Finally, Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Joe Donnelly (D-IN) will be introducing the Senate version of this important legislation entitled "Forty Hours is Full Time Act" this week as well. Early introduction of this legislation, in conjunction with an overwhelming House vote, will hopefully generate momentum for the Senate to pass this bill and send it to the President for his signature. 
