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2010

House Moves Forward on Miscellaneous Tariff Bills On July 7, the House Ways and Means Committee issued a draft manager's amendment of H.R. 4380, the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Bill of 2009. The original bill was introduced on December 15, 2009.
Get Out The Vote! -- Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Elections The election season is underway and the next round of primaries is coming up. Races will take place in Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, Connecticut and Minnesota.
May Trade Data Show Continued Strength According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports in May (valued at $4.6 billion) increased almost seven percent from the prior month and over 34 percent from the same period in 2009.
REACH Update: Authorization, Restrictions and More On July 1, 2010, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) recommended that eight of the 15 substances that were added to the Candidate List in early 2010 be included on the Authorization List.
Administration Establishes Timeframe for Moving Forward on U.S.-South Korea FTA Following bilateral talks between the United States and South Korea during this past weekend's G-20 meeting in Toronto, President Obama announced a preliminary schedule for implementing the U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
California EPA Issues Draft Regulation for Safer Consumer Product Alternatives The California Environmental Protection Agency's Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) issued a Draft Regulation for Safer Consumer Products Alternatives on June 23, 2010.
China Loosens Peg on Currency Facing growing international pressure, China announced on June 19 that it would allow for greater fluctuation between the renminbi (RMB) and the U.S. dollar.
EPA Pushes Congress to Revive Superfund Tax On June 21st, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) submitted draft legislation to Capitol Hill, seeking to reinstate the Superfund tax for the next decade.
Federal Reserve Releases Commentary on Current Economic Conditions In its June report, the Federal Reserve reported that economic activity continued to improve since their last report across all twelve Federal Reserve Districts, although many Districts described the pace of growth as "modest."
Feds Issue Guidance to Employers on "Grandfathered" Health Plans The U.S. Department of Labor, Health and Human Services and the Treasury recently issued implementing guidance defining a "grandfathered health plan" in the form of Interim Final Rules.
House Subcommittee Approves Nine Percent Increase in FDA Funding for FY11 The House Agriculture/FDA Appropriations Subcommittee has earmarked $2.571 billion for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in its FY11 appropriations bill, an increase of $214 million or 9% for the Agency over FY 10 funding and $55 million more than the President's request earlier this year.
SPI Alerts California Members to Act on Bag Bill On June 2nd, the California State Assembly narrowly passed Assembly Bill 1998, a bill that would repeal the state's successful at-store recycling program and prohibit grocery, convenience, and other specified stores from offering single use plastic bags to its customers.
ITC Votes to Keep Antidumping Order on PE Bags from China, Malaysia and Thailand On June 8, 2010, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) "determined that revoking the existing antidumping duty orders on polyethylene retail carrier bags from China, Malaysia and Thailand would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time."
NSF Releases Data from New Business R&D and Innovation Survey U.S. companies grossed nearly $11 trillion in worldwide sales and spent $330 billion on R&D in 2008. This information is according to new figures from the National Science Foundation's first ever Business R&D and Innovation Survey (BRDIS) developed jointly with the U.S. Census Bureau.
New York Releases Progress Report on Green Procurement New York released its first annual progress report on State Green Procurement and Agency Sustainability. The report is a result of Executive Order 4, "Establishing a State Green Procurement and Agency Sustainability Program," which was signed by Governor David Patterson (D) in April 2008.
Qualified Employers Benefit from New Tax Incentives Your company could benefit from the new Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act. The new law provides both a partial payroll tax holiday and a tax credit to employers who hire previously unemployed workers.
REACH Update: ECHA Includes 8 Additional Substances on the Candidate List; Announces New Webinar On June 18, 2010, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) voted to include eight additional substances on the Candidate list, which now includes 38 substances. Information on these substances and the Candidate List may be found in the Agency's press release.
South Carolina Manufacturers May Be Eligible for Property Tax Savings Some South Carolina manufacturers have until July 1, 2010, to take advantage of potentially significant property tax savings. The savings are the result of the state amending the assessment ratio for certain real property from 10.5 percent to 6 percent.
TSCA: EPA Requests SPI's Help to Address Industry Confidentiality Claims The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently asked for the assistance of SPI and other leading trade associations in requesting industry's attention to claims of confidential business information (CBI) for material submitted under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Connecticut Bill Would Expand Recycling Program The Connecticut legislature has sent Governor Jodi Rell (R) a bill expanding the types of items designated for recycling curbside, requires recycling receptacles at common gathering venues and includes other measures aimed at increasing recycling throughout the state.
REACH Update: ECHA Issues Slew of New Guidance as 2010 Deadline Approaches The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) has published several new reports and guidance documents on a range of subjects.
SPI Sponsoring U.S. Pavilion at K 2010; Limited Space Available — June 2, 2010
Limited space is available in the U.S. Pavilion at K 2010 for companies wanting to exhibit in this unique setting. The K show will take place October 27-November 3 in Düsseldorf, Germany.
SPI Urges Repeal of Paperwork Burden in Healthcare Reform Law On May 5th the Coalition for Fairness in Tax Compliance, which includes SPI, composed a letter to Representative Dan Lungren (R, CA-) in support of the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act (H.R. 5141), which he introduced on April 26th
States Divided on Running New Health Insurance Pools Of the many provisions in the recently enacted national health care reform legislation, one provision prohibits insurers from denying people coverage or charging them higher premiums on the basis of their health status. That provision does not take effect until 2014.
U.S. Plastics Trade Spikes More Than 12 Percent in March According to trade statistics recently issued by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports continued to rise in March.
NPE2012 Begins Taking Shape Months Ahead of Schedule as SPI Organizes "Pre-Drawing" for Space in New Orlando Venue — May 24, 2010
A lottery held today has enabled a core group of longtime NPE exhibitors to choose space at NPE2012 nearly two years before the event, generating a preliminary floor plan that will help other companies with their own space selection.
SPI Bioplastics Council Announces Approval of Jamplast, Inc. as New Member — May 20, 2010
The SPI Bioplastics Council announced today that Jamplast Inc, a leading distributor of raw plastic materials and biopolymers, headquartered in Ellisville, Missouri, has officially been approved as a new member.
ASTM Considers Additional Changes to the Resin Identification Codes — May 14, 2010
As it focuses on recycling of a variety of post-consumer plastics, ASTM's D20.95 subcommittee continues to work on the resin identification codes (RICs) draft standard.
California Initiative Takes Aim at False Plastics Degradability Claims An initiative aimed at rooting out false claims about the degradability of plastic products is moving through the California Senate.
Coalition Ad Warns "Card Check" Bill Could Result in 600k Jobs Lost In an effort to show industry's continued opposition to "card check" legislation, the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace, which includes SPI, produced an advertisement that ran in the April 29th edition of USA Today.
Commerce Imposes Trade Remedies on PE Bags from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia On April 30, 2010, the U.S. International Trade Commission issued its final affirmative determination in the antidumping and countervailing duty investigations on imports from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia of polyethylene retail carrier bags as provided for in subheading 3923.21.00 of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Get Out The Vote: Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Elections — May 12, 2010
The election season is underway and on May 18th, Arkansas, Kentucky, Oregon and Pennsylvania voters will have their turn at the ballot box.
Join the Plastics Ambassador Program: Communicate the Benefits of Plastics — May 12, 2010
Jointly sponsored by SPI and the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the Plastics Ambassador Program provides plastics industry members the tools to share the benefits of plastics with their local policymakers, media and the general public.
Pennsylvania Bottle Bill Would Impose Retail Tax The Pennsylvania House of Representatives recently introduced legislation that would impose a $.05 tax at retail on every plastic bottle within the state.
SPI Urges House to Support Passage of a Miscellaneous Tariff Bill SPI, in conjunction with more than 130 companies and associations, sent a letter to House leaders strongly encouraging them to pass a Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB).
State Pressure Points: Issues Garnering Increased Attention While states continue to grapple with balancing their budgets, Consumer Protection, Health Care and Pension Reform continue to garner more attention and action from state legislators.
Western Moldmakers Support Plastics Education and Future of Industry — May 12, 2010
SPI's Western Moldmakers recently awarded two colleges and two high schools a combined total of $7,500 through their 2009-2010 grant program. Over the last 14 years the group has donated nearly $80,000 to Western-based schools and universities with moldmaking programs
ECHA Update: Are Your Substances Due to Be Registered This Year? On April 1, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) released a List of those chemical substances that companies have told ECHA they plan to register by the initial registration deadline of November 30, 2010.
Global Packaging Project's Report Due in November Professionals from consumer goods companies and major retailers have approved a suggested set of common definitions and principles for sustainable packaging.
International Trade Events — May 3, 2010
NIST-MEP White Paper Assesses the Present and Future of American Manufacturing A new white paper entitled "Innovation and Product Development in the 21st Century" has been prepared by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Board.
NIST-TIP Grants for Manufacturing (Submissions Due July 15th) The National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST's) Technology Innovation Program (TIP) is soliciting high-risk, high-reward research and development proposals.
NSF Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase I Solicitation FY-2011 Open The National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant Program - Phase I Solicitation for fiscal year 2011 is open.
New Jersey - Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Plastic Containers Assemblyman Samuel Thompson (R-District 13 Middlesex and Monmouth) has prefiled legislation exempting from the sales and use tax returnable plastic containers and pallets.
New York Introduces Bill Favoring Plastic Composites for Subway and Railroad Ties Based on a New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority task force report issued last April, legislation has been introduced, A 10503 (Kavanagh), that gives preferential purchasing treatment to plastic composites for both new and replacement subway and railroad track ties.
Rhode Island Proposes Extended Producer Responsibility Bill Representative Amy G. Rice (D-District 72, Portsmouth, Middletown, Newport) has sponsored a bill, H 7998, proposing that all brand owners and manufacturers of a "consumer" product collect and dispose of the product one the consumer is done using it.
Workshop Supports California's Green Chemistry Initiative On May 10-11, California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment will hold a workshop in support of the Green Chemistry Initiative.
GOTV - Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Elections The election season is underway and May 4th will preview a number of races in various states; Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio voters will go to the polls.
SPI Bioplastics Council Members Head to Capitol Hill — April 21, 2010
The day before thousands gather in Washington, DC for a rally marking Earth Day, members of the SPI Bioplastics Council flew to the nation's capital this week to visit with lawmakers. Members called for increased bioplastics funding through grants and other programs such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture's BioPreferred program.
Senator Lautenberg Introduces "Safe Chemicals Act" to Amend TSCA — April 16, 2010
On April 15, Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) released his long-anticipated bill to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Appointment of Becker to NLRB Increases Potential for Pro-Union Labor Law Changes On March 27th, despite the opposition of all Senate Republicans and a number of Senate Democrats, President Obama appointed contentious nominee Craig Becker to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
Commerce Finds Unfair Dumping of PE Bags from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia The U.S. Department of Commerce recently announced its final determinations in the antidumping investigations on imports from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia of polyethylene retail carrier bags as provided for in subheading 3923.21.00 of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Currency Report Delayed Pending Ongoing Discussions On April 3, 2010, Secretary Timothy Geithner announced that Treasury was postponing the release of its semiannual Report on International Economic and Exchange Rate Policies.
PCAST Gathering Input on the Future of U.S. Manufacturing The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), an advisory group of the nation's leading scientists and engineers, has launched a website to collect input on the Future of U.S. Advanced Manufacturing.
SPI Applauds Administration's Intentions to Expand Offshore Energy Development On March 31st, President Obama announced his Administration's intentions to expand oil and natural gas exploration and development on the Outer Continental Shelf.
SPI Congratulates Two Member Companies Recently Recognized with Awards — April 15, 2010
Two SPI member companies, injection molder Steinwall Inc. and colorant/additive specialist Royce Associates, were recently recognized for their outstanding service to customers.
SPI Urges Congress to Extend Key Tax Incentive for Manufacturers SPI has joined with other leading national associations in urging Congress to extend a key tax incentive for manufacturers - known as "bonus depreciation" - which expired at the end of 2009.
State Roundup: CA, IA, MA, MD, ME
U.S., Brazil Broker Framework for Resolving Cotton Dispute Last week, Brazil announced that it would delay imposing retaliation in the cotton dispute in return for the U.S. agreeing to take certain measures by April 22, 2010.
SPI's Three Industry Councils Elect Representatives to Fill Vacancies on Executive Board — April 13, 2010
In response to recently identified vacancies, new volunteer leaders were elected to represent three Industry Councils (Equipment, Material Suppliers and Processors) on the Executive Board of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association.
NPE2012 Space Draw is Set for January 2011 in Orlando, Giving Many Exhibitors Their First Look at the New Venue for NPE — April 9, 2010
The NPE Space Draw, the crucial event at which companies select well over half of the total exhibit space at the NPE2012 plastics exposition, will take place January 12-14, 2011 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Conference Center in Orlando, Florida.
SPI Appoints Gunther Hoyt Associates as Exclusive Sales Agent for NPE2012 in Europe, Japan and Korea — April 7, 2010
H. Gunther Hoyt, an internationally known plastics industry figure with a wealth of experience as both machinery company executive and trade show official, will lead the exhibit sales program for the NPE2012 plastics exposition in Europe, Japan, and Korea, it was announced today by SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, which produces the triennial NPE.
SPI Sponsors U.S. Pavilions at K 2010 to Help Promote Exports by 45 American Companies and Open Marketing of NPE2012 — April 1, 2010
Two U.S. Pavilions at the K 2010 show this Fall in Düsseldorf, Germany will enable 45 American companies to showcase their technologies to an international audience of plastics professionals, it was announced today by SPI, sponsor of the pavilions.
Brazil Releases Draft Countermeasures Related to Intellectual Property Rights Last week, Brazil issued its proposed countermeasures in its ongoing dispute with the United States concerning cotton.
GOTV - Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Elections - May 4th The election season is underway and May 4th is the next major primary date for voters in three key states -- Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio - to head to the polls to cast their votes.
New Law Brings Tax Incentives to Plastics Companies On March 18, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act. As a result, employers who hire unemployed workers this year (after February 3, 2010) may qualify for a 6.2-percent payroll tax incentive.
New Report: "State Experiences with Emerging Contaminants" The Environmental Council of the States (ECOS) has issued a new report resulting from discussions among the states on issues and concerns related to emerging contaminants and associated state environmental agency activities
Ohio Governor Expresses Concern to EPA on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regulation Ohio Governor Ted Strickland (D) has sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson outlining his concerns regarding EPA's plans for addressing greenhouse gas emissions from stationary sources.
Plastics Exports Up 2.4 Percent in January According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports continued to rise in January.
REACH Update: New REACH-IT System Launched on March 25 On Monday, ECHA issued a press release announcing that the new REACH-IT system went live on Thursday, March 25. The current system has been shut down to allow data to be backed up, migrated to the new system and tested.
South Carolina Voters to Decide on Workers' Rights to Secret Ballots This fall, South Carolina voters will decide whether or not to amend the Palmetto state's constitution to include language affirming and protecting workers' rights to secret ballots in union elections.
Tariff Suspension Bills in Jeopardy Following House Republican Ban on All Earmarks On March 11, 2010, House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) announced that the House Republicans had issued "a unilateral moratorium on all earmarks, including tax and tariff-related earmarks."
SPI Statement on Health Care Legislation Signed into Law on March 23, 2010 — March 24, 2010
Although SPI strongly agrees that the American healthcare system is in need of reform, we are extremely disappointed with the package passed by Congress and signed into law on Tuesday. We now face a law that places an undue burden squarely on private sector employers.
New Venue for NPE2012 in Orlando Gives Latin Americans Easy Access to Hemisphere's Largest Plastics Exposition — March 23, 2010
The NPE2012 international plastics exposition promises to be a "must" on the calendars of industry professionals in Latin America and the Caribbean, including those who have never before attended an NPE because of the travel involved, according to SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, which is sponsoring the U.S. Pavilion at Plastimagen 2010.
ASTM Considers Additional Changes to the Resin Identification Codes As it continues to focus on recycling of a variety of post-consumer plastics, ASTM's D20.95 subcommittee continues to work on the resin identification codes draft standard.
Administration Releases 2010 Trade Agenda, FTA Timelines Vague On March 1, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) issued its 2010 edition of the administration's International Trade Agenda which focuses on recently announced initiatives.
Plastic Bottles and Flasks Targeted for Brazilian Retaliation On March 8, 2010, Brazil issued its final retaliation list in its ongoing dispute with the United States concerning cotton. That list proposes imposing punitive tariffs on 102 categories of products, U.S. exports of which were valued at $591 million in 2008.
REACH Update: 8 New Substances to be Considered for Inclusion on Candidate List On March 8, 2010, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a press release announcing that eight new substances of very high concern (SVHCs) have been nominated for inclusion on the Candidate List.
Upcoming International Trade Events — March 11, 2010
Medical Products Committee Meeting — March 10, 2010
The Medical Products Committee of SPI's Processors Council will hold its inaugural meeting March 15, 2010 at Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida. The group will seek to examine both technical and business related issues within the medical products arena, and is open to all SPI members with an interest in medical products.
SPI Welcomes Suzanne Morgan as Senior Director of Government Affairs & Grassroots Advocacy — March 4, 2010
SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association today announced the appointment of Suzanne Morgan to the position of senior director of government affairs and grassroots advocacy. With more than 20 years experience in public affairs, and 15 spent developing association initiatives designed to influence policy makers, Morgan will lead SPI?s grassroots efforts and mobilize its members on behalf of plastics.
California Update: Three Bills Tied to Consumer Products, Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility, Consumer Product Content Information and Plastic Ocean Pollution Reduction, Recycling, and Composting Act are three Bills tied to Consumer Products, Packaging
Congress Poised to Pass Jobs Bill - Extenders Up for Consideration The Administration has proposed a number of tax incentives that may benefit SPI members. Two of these - the new hires tax credit and section 179 expensing provisions for small businesses - are included in the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (HR 2847).
Free Attendance for Businesses at Ohio's Largest Occupational Health and Safety Event — March 3, 2010
Ohio's Bureau of Workman's Compensation (BWC) is sponsoring the Ohio Safety Congress & Expo, March 30th to April 1st at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Health Care: President's Plan Would Fine Some Employers for Not Providing Coverage After a brief lull, health care reform reemerged last week, beginning with the release of the President's blueprint for reform on Monday and culminating with Thursday's highly anticipated health care summit.
NSF Launches Open Government Web Page; Encourages Collaboration The National Science Foundation (NSF) has launched a new interactive web page designed to encourage participation and collaboration between the agency and the citizens it serves.
New Jersey Recycling Bill Targets Rigid Containers, Technical Council to Study Feasability Assemblyman John McKeon (D-Essex) has recently introduced Assembly Bill 2225, the "Plastic Container Recycling Enhancement Act."
REACH Update: New Proposal to Harmonize Classification and Labeling Includes Substance Relevant to Plastics The European Chemicals Agency has received proposals to harmonize the classification and labeling of four additional substances: Acequinocyl, Metazachlor, Tris(nonylphenyl)phosphate and Bifenthrin.
DOC Sustainable Business Clearinghouse: Further Your Sustainable Manufacturing Efforts — February 19, 2010
The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) has launched the Sustainable Business Clearinghouse. The Sustainable Business Clearinghouse is a central portal for information on Federal-level government programs and resources that support sustainable business.
New ASTM Document to Guide Manufacturers on Plastic Products Affected by REACH ASTM International is developing a new document to guide manufacturers, buyers and designers who deal with plastics and polymers as to whether products contain substances affected by the European Union's Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals, known as REACH, or the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).
Plastics Academy Seeks Nominations for Posthumous Inductions to Hall of Fame — February 19, 2010
The Plastics Academy is now accepting nominations for posthumous induction into the Plastics Hall of Fame -- the highest honor bestowed in the plastics industry.
Plastics Exports Continue to Improve, But Still Down 16.6 Percent in 2009 According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports continue to recover.
U.S. -Canada "Buy American" Deal to Provide Greater Access to Canadian Market On February 12, in an accord signed with Canada, the United States agreed to waive the "Buy America" restrictions on certain construction projects that received stimulus funds.
USDA Designates New Products for Federal BioPreferred Program The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) BioPreferred Program is proposing to amend the "Guidelines for Designating Biobased Products for Federal Procurement" to add nine sections that will designate items within which biobased products would be afforded Federal procurement preference.
White House Requests Information on Grand Challenges for the 21st Century On September 21, 2009, President Barack Obama released his "Strategy for American Innovation." The strategy outlines the Administration's plans to foster innovation for sustainable growth and the creation of high-quality jobs.
SPI Draws on Trade Show Expertise to Make It Easier, Less Costly for Companies to Exhibit at Major 2010 Plastics Shows — February 18, 2010
SPI will put to use more than six decades of experience producing NPE by assisting companies that would like to take part in this or other major plastics shows but are discouraged by the time, cost, manpower and logistics of planning an exhibit. SPI's new "Concierge Service" is already available to prospective exhibitors at this year's Plastimagen, Chinaplas and K shows.
SPI Approves NPE2012 Committee, Charged with Maximizing Return on Investment for Exhibitors and Visitors — February 9, 2010
A newly appointed committee of plastics company officials will be responsible for maximizing the return on investment for exhibitors and visitors at the NPE2012 international plastics exposition, it was announced today by SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, which produces the triennial NPE.
Maine Bill Puts Post-Consumer Collection, Disposal Onus on Manufacturers Maine is proposing that all brand owners and manufacturers of a consumer product collect and dispose of the product once the consumer is done using it.
SPI President Carteaux Discusses Pending Bills with Vermont Governor SPI President Bill Carteaux recently met with Vermont Governor Jim Douglas, in part to discuss bills pending in the Vermont Legislature that would specifically impact the plastics community
Did You Miss SPI's Export Opportunities Webinar Series? Access the Recordings! The webinar series provided updates to U.S. plastics companies on the latest trends and opportunities in countries ranging from the EU to India to Russia.
SPI Advocacy on Behalf of Your Business - 2009 in Review To provide SPI members with a better sense of the issues covered by SPI in 2009, SPI's Advocacy team has prepared a summary of the key legislative and regulatory issues advanced last year.
SPI Commends Administration on Proposed TPP Negotiations On January 25, 2010, SPI submitted comments to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) supporting, in principle, the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement negotiations.
Some Administration Tax Cut Proposals May Benefit SPI Members Initially announced during last week's State of the Union Address, and fleshed out in subsequent announcements and Monday's 2011 Budget, a number of new tax proposals could potentially benefit SPI members.
WTO Panel Upholds Thai Challenge to Antidumping Order on Plastic Bags In a decision that may affect the antidumping order on plastics carrier bags from Thailand, a World Trade Organization (WTO) panel upheld Thailand's challenge to the manner in which the U.S. Department of Commerce calculated the antidumping duty margins in the underlying investigation.
SPI Bioplastics Council Issues Position Paper on Oxo-Biodegradables & Other Degradable Additives — January 28, 2010
The SPI Bioplastics Council today announced the release of a position paper that questions the scientific validity of biodegradability claims made by producers of "oxo-degradable" and "oxo-biodegradable" products. The Council's paper formally supports the point of view put forth by European Bioplastics in a July 2009 publication.
Get Out the Vote! - Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Elections The election season has started and January 26th and February 2nd will preview a number of races in various states.
Input Needed from SMEs on Barriers to Exporting At the request of the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) is holding a series of hearings and discussions to determine exporting activity by small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) in the United States and the exports barriers and opportunities they experience.
Pennsylvania Congressman Thompson Tours Buckell Plastic Facility On January 11th the Buckell Plastic Company, welcomed Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson (R, PA-5) to its Lewistown, Pa. facility.
REACH Update: Do You Supply Any of the 14 New Substances Added to Candidate List? On January 13, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a press release announcing that 14 additional substances of very high concern (SVHCs) have been added to the "Candidate List."
U.S. Plastics Exports Recovery Falters in November According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports declined in November by almost six percent as compared to the prior month.
Children's Products: SPI, Coalition Gain Victory in CPSC Testing and Certification Decision SPI was among 40 trade associations that signed onto a letter to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in mid-December requesting an extension of the stay of enforcement of section 102(a) of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) relating to testing and certification requirements.
Export Opportunities in Bulgaria, Poland and Russia — January 13, 2010
On January 19, 2010, the U.S. Commercial Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, in conjunction with SPI and the National Association of Manufacturers, will be hosting the last in a series of four webinars intended to update U.S. plastics companies on the latest trends and opportunities in countries ranging from the EU to India to Russia.
Preserve & Protect: SPI to Submit Food Contact Substances List for Approval by China SPI is among a group of international trade associations that will submit lists of resins and additives used in contact with foods to the Chinese Ministry of Health (MOH) for review in 2010.
Resolve to Get Involved at January's SPI OHEIC Meeting Ring in 2010 by attending (or calling in to) the SPI Occupational Health and Environmental Issues Committee (OHEIC) meeting on January 27-28, 2010.
SPI Comments on OSHA Proposed Rule to Modify Hazard Communication Standard On December 29, 2009, SPI submitted comments on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) proposed rule to modify its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to conform to the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
States Move to Address "Card Check" Legislation Issue With the beginning of the New Year, states are moving on a number of fronts. Given the slowdown of the Card Check legislation at the Congressional level, state legislatures are addressing this issue in a number of different ways.
Your Input Needed on Proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership Trade Agreement On December 14, 2009, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) notified Congress that the President intends to enter into negotiations with the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries with "the objective of shaping a high-standard, 21st century agreement with a membership and coverage that provides economically significant market access opportunities for America's workers, farmers, ranchers, service providers, and small businesses."
SPI Bioplastics Council Seeks to Build on 2009 Momentum with Ambitious Slate of 2010 Activities — January 11, 2010
The Bioplastics Council, a special interest group of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, today announced its agenda of activities for 2010, as well as the volunteer leaders who will serve the Council as new chair and vice chair.

2009

SPI Issues New Report: "Life-Cycle Assessment of Plenum Space Communication Cable" — December 29, 2009
SPI announced today that the Wire and Cable Section of its Fluoropolymers Committee has issued a new peer-reviewed report entitled "Life-Cycle Assessment of Plenum Space Communication Cable."
Doha Round Update: WTO Geneva Ministerial Ends Without Progress The seventh round of talks under the Doha Round ended on December 2 without substantive results other than an agreement to conduct a stocktaking exercise by the end of the first quarter in 2010.
International Trade Events — December 14, 2009
REACH Update: 15 New Substances to be Added to Candidate List On December 7, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a press release identifying 15 additional substances of very high concern (SVHCs) that will be formally added to the "Candidate List" in January 2010.
SPI Member Installs Innovative Solar Power System at Plastic Packaging Plant — December 14, 2009
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony held November 12th, Plastic Package Inc., an SPI member company, celebrated the installation of the largest cylindrical thin film solar energy system west of New Jersey.
SPI Monitors Food Packaging Implications in Maine's Proposed Children?s Products Rule On November 19th, Maine's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) released its proposed rule implementing "Toxic Chemicals in Children's Products," a statute that the state enacted in 2008.
SPI Western Moldmakers Gets Boost from Progressive Components — December 14, 2009
Progressive Components, an SPI member company, surprised SPI's Western Moldmakers Committee with a $500 donation to the group's grant program while attending last month's Mike Koebel Moldmakers Trade Fair.
Your Input Needed: White House Asks SPI for Industry Ideas to Improve Job Market On December 3rd President Obama held a high profile jobs summit that sought solutions to the nation's lethargic job market.
ASTM Continues Work: Two New Resin Identification Codes Considered In its continuing effort to facilitate more efficient recycling of a variety of post-consumer plastics, the ASTM D20.95 subcommittee on plastics recycling met November 8-10 in Atlanta to work on the resin identification codes draft standard.
California Regulators Should Not Duplicate Federal Testing Requirements for Food Packaging, SPI Says California's Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) released a draft straw proposal for "Safer Alternative Regulations" in October.
New York Advisory Council?s Green Procurement Specifications Raise Concerns New York Executive Order No. 4 (E.O. No.4), established a "State Green Procurement and Agency Sustainability Program" to guide the state's purchasing of commodities, services and technology.
OSHA Resources Can Help Reduce Risk of H1N1 at Your Company — November 24, 2009
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has posted a new Web page entitled Workplace Safety and H1N1 that includes fact sheets on the risk of exposure to the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus at work. Separate fact sheets for health care workers and employers contain additional precautions.
Plastics Exports Up More than 10 Percent in Third Quarter According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports continued to recover. Specifically, exports for the month of September were up just under two percent (to $4.0 billion) from the prior month, marking eight straight months of growth.
REACH Update: Restrictions and Registration Preparation On November 11, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a press release regarding a new portal on its website concerning restrictions on chemical substances.
SPI to Raise Plastics Industry Concerns for Consideration at CPSC Workshop The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Office of the General Counsel has announced a two-day workshop December 10-11, 2009 to discuss testing, certification and labeling of certain consumer products pursuant to section 14 of the Consumer Product Safety Act.
USDA Expansion of Procurement Guidelines for Bio-Based Products May Benefit Certain Container Manufacturers The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, amended its guidelines for designating bio-based products for federal procurement. These amendments added nine sections to designate items within which bio-based products will be afforded federal procurement preference.
SPI Makes Dramatic Shift In NPE History With Decision To Hold NPE2012 In Orlando, Florida — November 17, 2009
NPE2012, the next edition of the triennial NPE international plastics exposition, will take place April 1-5, 2012 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, it was announced today by SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association.
Commerce Imposes Preliminary Antidumping Duties on PE Retail Carrier Bags In late October, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its preliminary determinations in the antidumping investigations on imports from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia of polyethylene retail carrier bags.
House Passes Health Care Legislation That Would Impact Many Employers By the narrowest of margins (220-215) and after months of public debate, the House of Representatives passed the Affordable Health Care for America Act(H.R.3962) on November 7th.
Plastics Industry May Recoup Back Taxes for Cash SPI scored a significant legislative win last week with the passage of a new law that has the potential to generate immediate cash for plastics industry companies of all sizes.
SPI Co-sponsors Webinar on Export Opportunities in France, Germany and Italy — November 12, 2009
On December 3, 2009, the U.S. Commercial Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, in conjunction with SPI and the National Association of Manufacturers, will be hosting the third in a series of four webinars intended to update U.S. plastics companies on the latest trends and opportunities in countries ranging from the EU to India to Russia.
SPI Members May be Impacted by Brazil's Proposed Retaliation Resin and plastic product producers in the U.S. who export to Brazil may be affected by Brazil?s proposed retaliation in a trade dispute over cotton.
SPI Urges Congress to Expand Small Business Access to Credit SPI has urged Congress to expand small business access to credit as part of its ongoing efforts to stimulate the U.S. plastics industry.
Tariff Suspension Bills Introduced in the Senate A number of bills now brewing on Capitol Hill could offer tariff relief on certain resins and plastic products.
U.S. Green Building Council's Pilot Credit Library Could Hinder Use of PVC, FEP The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has launched a new program to test potential requirements for green building design, construction and operations programs.
Upcoming International Trade Events — November 12, 2009
Plastics Industry Leaders Elected to Serve as New SPI Officers — November 9, 2009
New volunteer leaders were elected to be officers of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association at the organization's National Board Meeting held October 14-16 in Arlington, Va. As part of the SPI Executive Board, the officers are responsible for the general management of the association's property, funds and business.
Commerce Announces New Sustainable Business Clearinghouse Tool The U.S. Department of Commerce's (DOC's) International Trade Administration has announced the launch of the Sustainable Business Clearinghouse.
Export Opportunities in India — October 29, 2009
On November 3, 2009, the U.S. Commercial Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, in conjunction with SPI and the National Association of Manufacturers, will be hosting the second in a series of four webinars intended to update U.S. plastics companies on the latest trends and opportunities in countries ranging from the EU to India to Russia.
OSHA Issues Advanced Notice of Combustible Dust Rulemaking The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) on combustible dust. Comments are due by January 19, 2010.
SPI Elects New Officers at National Board Meeting — October 29, 2009
New volunteer leaders were elected to be SPI officers at the organization?s National Board Meeting held October 14-16 in Arlington, Va.
Treasury Declines Yet Again to Cite China On October 15, the Treasury Department issued its Semi-Annual Report to Congress on International Economic and Exchange Rate Policies. Despite restating its view that the Chinese renminbi (RMB) remains undervalued, Treasury ultimately elected not to cite China for manipulating its currency.
SPI Bioplastics Council Announces Approval of Newest Member PolyOne Corporation — October 26, 2009
The Bioplastics Council, a special interest group of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, announced today that PolyOne, a specialty chemical and polymer company headquartered in Avon Lake, Ohio and with 2008 annual revenues of $2.7 billion, has officially been approved as a new member.
New SPI Report Shows Global Recession's Impact on State of U.S. Plastics in the International Marketplace — October 21, 2009
Despite a weak fourth quarter, U.S. plastics exports showed robust growth in 2008. Although trade barriers remain to accessing a number of overseas markets, U.S. plastics remain competitive and highly desired in the international marketplace. However, domestic shipments in 2008 declined just under one percent, as the recession began to take its toll on plastics consumption in the United States.
SPI Partners with US Commerce Department on Export Opportunity Webinars — October 8, 2009
On October 21, 2009, the U.S. Commercial Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, in conjunction with SPI and the National Association of Manufacturers, will be hosting the first in a series of four webinars intended to update U.S. plastics companies on the latest trends and opportunities in countries ranging from the EU to India to Russia.
Bill Carteaux Goes On the Road to Discuss SPI's New Business Blueprint — October 7, 2009
As mentioned in numerous other communications, SPI's Executive Board voted to redesign SPI to better meet the changing needs of a maturing plastics industry in 2010 and beyond. In addition to a series of meetings, webinars, letters and e-mail updates, SPI President and CEO Bill Carteaux has launched a Regional Dinner Series to discuss the SPI2010 business model with member representatives.
California EPA Prioritizes Food Packaging in Proposed Safer Alternatives Regulation Food packaging has been included in an initial set of consumer product categories prioritized for chemicals review in the Straw Proposal on the Safer Alternatives Regulation, released by California EPA's Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) on October 1st.
Concerned About Administration's Proposed EH&S Regs? Get Involved in OHEIC There has been a recent surge of worker health and safety, environmental and product regulatory activity - including new EPA and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initiatives on compliance and enforcement. To minimize unnecessary administrative burdens on plastics manufacturing, it's crucial that industry representatives step up and engage with regulators.
Does Your Company Export or Operate Overseas? Have you experienced difficulties related to market access, compliance with regulations or other obstacles that you may consider the "cost of doing business" in that market? You may be experiencing an unnecessary burden that can be addressed (and resolved) by U.S. trade officials.
EPA Targets Large Emitters of Greenhouse Gases for Reporting, Reduction On September 22, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson signed the Final Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Rule. The plastics industry is potentially affected under the category of general stationary fuel combustion sources, which includes sources such as boilers and process heaters.
Illinois State Senator Althoff Visits Ex-Tech Plastics On September 30, Ex-Tech Plastics, Inc., an SPI member company, welcomed Illinois State Senator Pamela Although (R-Crystal Lake) on a tour of their operations. Ex-Tech President Bill Riesbeck (who serves on SPI's Midwest Advisory Committee) and senior management hosted a briefing for the Senator prior to the tour.
OSHA Proposes Changes to its Hazard Communication Standard The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a proposed rule to modify its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to conform to the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), published in the September 30 Federal Register.
SPI Reviews Administration's Principles for Revising Chemical Management Law In a September 29 speech, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson unveiled six "Essential Principles for Reform of Chemicals Management Legislation" intended to aid Congress as legislation is developed - and expected to be released shortly - to reform and strengthen the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Senate Establishes Schedule for Miscellaneous Tariff Bill After months of delay, the Senate Finance Committee last week initiated a schedule for moving forward on a miscellaneous tariff bill (MTB). The MTB process permits the House and the Senate to submit individual tariff suspension bills on behalf of constituents where it can be demonstrated that there is no domestic production of a competing product and that the tariff revenue loss for each individual duty suspension will not exceed $500,000.
ASTM Plastics Recycling Subcommittee Distributes New Draft Ballot on Resin Codes On September 23, 2009, ASTM International's D20.95 subcommittee on Plastics Recycling distributed a new draft subcommittee ballot on the resin identification codes to its membership. There are 18 new items being balloted as part of the draft, which will update the original system developed in 1988 by SPI.
EH&S Impacts of Nanomaterials to be Discussed at California Symposium — September 29, 2009
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) announced it will host the DTSC/California Nano-Industry Network Symposium, November 16, 2009, at the Cal/EPA Headquarters Building in Sacramento, Calif.
Help Save R&D Tax Credit, Sign Coalition Letter With the federal research and development (R&D) tax credit set to expire at the end of this year, SPI encourages all members to urge lawmakers in Washington to pass a permanent and strengthened R&D tax credit.
REACH Update: Resources for Lead Registrants The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced that more than 500 lead registrants participated in the Substance Information Exchange Forum (SIEF) and registration process, which was held on September 11. Specifically, speakers from ten companies shared their experiences on taking the lead within their respective SIEFs in developing joint dossiers for their chemical substances.
SPI Partners with NAM and Commerce on Export Opportunity Webinars — September 29, 2009
SPI Supports Department of the Interior's OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Plan On September 21st, SPI submitted comments in support of the Department of the Interior's Draft Proposed Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program 2010-2015. The Proposed Five Year Lease Plan would expand access to natural gas and oil resources by opening 31 new lease sales in the Alaska, Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic OCS regions.
SPI Urges White House to Support Free Trade with S. Korea Based on 2008 export levels, SPI estimates that the elimination of Korean tariffs on U.S. plastics would save the industry more than $68 million per annum, which why the Association is strongly encouraging the Obama Administration to obtain Congressional approval for free trade between the United States and South Korea.
Action Needed: Sign on to R&D Credit Coalition Letter SPI encourages all members to sign on to the R&D Credit Coalition Letter. The letter urges Congress to pass a permanent and strengthened Research and Development tax credit as proposed by H.R. 422, introduced by Representatives Meek and Brady, and S. 1203, introduced by Senators Baucus and Hatch.
Potential USDA Opportunity for Packaging Producers The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently issued an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comments which may be an opportunity for producers of plastics packaging.
U.S. Plastics Exports Continue Steady Recovery According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports increased for the sixth straight month. Specifically, plastics exports increased by just less than three percent in July, month- on-month, to $3.8 billion.
USTR Seeking Bilateral Solutions to Doha Negotiations Following the September 3-4 ministerial in New Delhi, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), Ron Kirk, has indicated that his office plans to conduct a series of bilateral talks with key trading partners (including Brazil, China, India and South Africa) this fall. The basis of those talks is expected to be specific market access concessions for priority products.
Virginia Congressman Perriello Tours Wexco's Lynchburg Facility On August 31st, Wexco Corporation welcomed Representative Tom Perriello (D- VA-5) to the companys Lynchburg facility. Touring the 48,000 sq. ft. complex, the Congressman met with a number of his constituents, while also being introduced to the plastics industry in his district.
Apply Now for 30% Tax Credit for Clean Energy Manufacturing The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 (ARRA) authorizes the U.S. Department of Treasury to award $2.3 billion in tax credits for qualified investments in advanced energy projects, to support new, expanded, or re-equipped domestic manufacturing facilities. As a result, the Department of Treasury has launched a program to provide a 30 percent manufacturing tax credit for producing renewable energy, energy storage and other clean energy equipment.
Commerce's Preliminary Finding: Vietnam PE Bags are Subsidized On September 4, 2009, the U.S. Department of Commerce issued a preliminary determination that countervailable subsidies are being provided to producers and exporters of polyethylene retail carrier bags from Vietnam. Specifically, Commerce has preliminarily determined that manufactures in Vietnam are receiving subsidies in the range of 1.69 percent to 4.24 percent.
EPA's Interagency Testing Committee Report Focuses on Nanoscale Materials Eight months after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) interim report on industry participation in its Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program, EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act's (TSCA) Interagency Testing Committee published a recent report in the Federal Register mentioning that EPA intends to issue a new mandatory data collection rule for nanoscale materials under TSCA Section 8(a) on the production, uses, and exposures of existing nanoscale materials.
First SPI Regional Advisory Committee Meeting Held in Iowa The first Regional Advisory Committee meeting under SPI's new structure was held August 20th at Innovative Injection Technologies (i2Tech) in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Illinois Governor Quinn Signs Business Tax Credit Extensions into Law Illinois Governor Pat Quinn recently signed Senate Bill 1691, sponsored by Senator Pamela Althoff (R-Crystal Lake), into law. The bill extends the exemption for graphic arts machinery and equipment, the manufacturer's purchase credit, and the replacement tax investment tax credit until August 30, 2014.
NSF Announces Funding Opportunities for Small Business Tech Transfer Activities The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced a new "Phase 1 Small Business Technology Transfer Program Funding Solicitation" totaling approximately $5 million dollars. NSF will support high quality projects on important scientific and engineering that could lead to significant commercial and public benefit if the research is successful. The subtopics for this solicitation are: bio-inspired materials and systems, materials for energy generation and storage, materials for sustainability, nanostructured materials, smart materials and structures. Phase I is to evaluate the scientific or technical merit and feasibility of ideas that appear to have commercial potential.
REACH Update: SIEFS, Classification and Labeling and the Candidate List The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) continues to encourage pre-registrants to participate in the relevant SIEFs (information exchange forums) and to nominate a Lead Registrant for each substance. As of September 2, only 1,393 SIEFs have designated a Lead Registrant. In particular, ECHA issued a press release on August 31 encouraging Lead Registrants to make themselves known so that they may benefit from the "special service" that ECHA is offering to those companies, which includes the Lead Registrant workshop scheduled to be held in Brussels on September 11.
SPI Bioplastics Council Announces Approval of New Member — September 10, 2009
The Bioplastics Council, a special interest group of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, announced today that Teknor Apex, a diversified material science company headquartered in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, has officially been approved as a new member.
Senator Vitter Tours Louisiana Plastics Industries? West Monroe Facility U.S. Senator David Vitter (R-Louisiana) attended a plant tour hosted by Louisiana Plastics Industries (LPKI) at the SPI member company?s West Monroe facility on August 25. Senator Vitter toured LPI?s blown film extrusion plant for multiwall bag liners and its recycling facility for blown film post industrial waste.
Update on EPA Pre-Charged Appliance Rule; January 1 Compliance Date Expected Manufacturers of industrial process cooling equipment and other pre-charged appliances are awaiting finalization of a rule that could have implications for stock units of split systems depending on the final definition of "manufacture" and whether a particular exemption for pre-charged appliances could apply to split systems. In the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) December 2008 proposed rule, Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Ban on the Sale and Distribution of Pre-Charged Appliances, EPA proposed to ban the sale or distribution of air-conditioning and refrigeration appliances containing HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, or blends containing one or both of these substances beginning January 1, 2010. EPA also proposed extending the ban to air-conditioning and refrigeration appliances that are suitable only for use with newly produced HCFC-22, HCFC-142b, or blends containing one or both of these controlled substances as the refrigerant, and pre-charged appliance parts.
Comments Requested on Pending Free Trade Agreements Late last month the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) issued two Federal Register notices seeking comments on the pending free trade agreements (FTAs) with Colombia and South Korea. Specifically, a July 27 Federal Register notice requests comments on the costs and benefits of the U.S.-South Korea FTA. Meanwhile, the USTR's July 29 Federal Register notice seeks comments on the ability of Colombians to exercise their fundamental labor rights. Comments to both notices are due by September 15.
Illinois Congressman Tours Innovative Plastech's Thermoforming Facility — August 20, 2009
During his August 3rd tour of Innovative Plastech's thermoforming facility in Batavia, U.S. Congressman Bill Foster met with Jim Gustafson, the company's president, and key managers.
Illinois Law Puts Environmentally Preferable Spin on Procurement Code As the states continue to juggle budgets and sessions drag out, legislation that has managed to pass both chambers is creating a backlog for some Governors. In Illinois, Governor Quinn (D) is now taking pen to paper.
Recovery Act Funding Available for Small Business Innovation Projects As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a "Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Funding Opportunity" totaling approximately $8.5 million dollars.
SPI Urges EPA to Retain Key Exclusions from the Definition of Solid Waste The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule in October of 2008 under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act that streamlines regulation of hazardous secondary materials and encourages beneficial recycling by reclamation. A petition was subsequently filed requesting reconsideration and repeal of the Definition of Solid Waste (DSW).
U.S. Plastics Exports Up Almost 15% in Second Quarter According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports increased more than six percent in June, month on month, to $3.7 billion. In turn, plastics exports for the second quarter of 2009 were up 14.4 percent as compared to the first quarter of the year.
Upcoming International Trade Events — August 20, 2009
Congressman McCarthy Tours Pactiv Plant in Bakersfield, Calif. U.S. Congressman Kevin McCarthy recently toured SPI member Pactiv Corporation's Bakersfield, California plant, seeing the company's foam products manufacturing operations first-hand. Coordinated by SPI, the plant tour gave the Congressman an opportunity to meet a number of Pactiv employees and learn about the plastics industry's positive impact on the nation's economy.
SPI Meets FDA Commissioner; Critical Role for Industry in Agency Priorities In a July 22nd address to the Alliance for a Stronger FDA, of which SPI is a member, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg pledged support for the food, drug, and medical device and consumer product industries as key partners in helping FDA to face new challenges in fulfilling its mission.
SPI Participates on California State Water Board Stakeholders Work Team On July 22, SPI participated on the first conference call for the "Preproduction Plastics Stakeholders Work Team" implemented by Assembly Bill 258 (Krekorian) and coordinated by the California State Water Board.
SPI Staff Discusses Energy Policy with Senator Alexander SPI government affairs staff recently met with U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee to discuss federal energy policy, with a focus on the effect so-called "cap and trade" legislation would have on industrial facilities.
Wal-Mart to Launch Sustainable Product Index Initiative On July 16th, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. announced plans to develop a sustainable product index for use by its product suppliers.
SPI's Bioplastics Council Announces Publication of First-Ever Bioplastics Industry Overview Guide — July 28, 2009
The Bioplastics Council, a special interest group of SPI: The Plastics Industry Trade Association, today announced the publication of the first-ever Bioplastics Industry Overview Guide. Filling the void for a comprehensive encapsulation of this relatively new but fast-growing market of the plastics industry, the new Guide provides readers with information concerning trends and challenges; similarities and differences amongst different bioplastics; applications and uses; companies in the industry; production estimates and projected market growth.
Bioplastics Council Meets with Key Senate Staff On July 15th, members of the SPI Bioplastics Council met with staff from the offices of Senators Casey (D-PA), Feinstein (D-CA), Grassley (R-IA), Johanns (R-NE), Klobuchar (D-MN), and Nelson (D-NE), to discuss the USDA BioPreferred Program and the benefits of and challenges faced by the bioplastics industry.
Save the Dates! Webinars Scheduled to Explain SPI's Path for the Future — July 17, 2009
Please join SPI President Bill Carteaux for one of three identical webinars that will fully explain the recent infrastructure and operational changes that SPI's member-led Executive Board made to successfully re-focus the association for the future. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn the unfiltered details concerning SPI's evolution.
California Packaging Ban Bill Pulled Assembly Bill 1329 (Brownley) has been pulled from further consideration by the Assembly this session.
Louisiana Phases in Sales Tax Exclusion for Manufacturing Machinery Effective July 1, 2009, the Louisiana state sales tax exclusion for manufacturing machinery and equipment has been fully phased in. There is also a change regarding the sales tax exemption for business utilities.
California Packaging Bills Slowed by Economy Movement on a number of California bills related to packaging has slowed considerably. In some cases, further action is questionable -- particularly on those that carry a direct cost to the state.
G8 and Key Trading Partners Pledge to Finalize Doha Round in 2010 On July 9, leaders from the G8 nations, as well as from Australia, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Republic of Korea and South Africa, announced their commitment to seek a Doha round deal in 2010. In a statement entitled Promoting the Global Agenda, these global leaders instructed their trade ministers to "seek an ambitious and balanced conclusion to the Doha Development Round in 2010."
North Carolina Governor Signs Bag Ban Legislation On June 24, 2009, North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue signed into law S 1018, a bill that would reduce plastic and non-recycled paper bag use on North Carolinas outer banks. The law is effective as of September 1, 2009.
SPI Submits Comments to EPA on Greenhouse Gases Findings In late June, SPI submitted comments in opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Proposed Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse Gases Under Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act Proposed Rule.
U.S. Plastics Exports Continue to Rise According to trade statistics recently issued by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports increased by one percent in April and by six percent in May, month on month.
Upcoming International Trade Events — July 15, 2009
West Coast Governor's Agreement on Ocean Health Last year, Governors Schwarzenegger (R-CA), Kulongoski (D-OR) and Gregoire (D-WA) released an action plan for the West Coast Governors? Agreement on Ocean Health. This plan identified twenty-six actions to guide this effort - aimed at sustaining the health of coastal and ocean resources and the coastal communities that depend on them.
Big Sales on the Show Floor — July 1, 2009
Those who come to NPE2009 come to buy. That is what two exhibitors found in a big way. "Before NPE2009 was half over, The Conair Group knew the show was a success," a company announcement says.
Co-Located Events Report Solid, Successful Attendance — July 1, 2009
The largest co-located conference at NPE2009 was of course the Society of Plastics Engineers' ANTEC, with 750 original, peer-reviewed presentations.
Exhibitors View NPE2009 as Profitable, "Feel Good" Story for the Industry — July 1, 2009
A general feeling of satisfaction, contentment and perhaps a little relief came over the NPE2009 show floor by the time the show closed at 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Exhibitors were pleased with the show attendance and repeatedly cited the high quality of the buyers and decision-makers at the show despite lower volume.
Exhibitors, Attendees Discuss Economic Issues with Congressional Leaders — July 1, 2009
At the SPI Policy Makers' Coffee held Monday afternoon in McCormick Place, SPI's Government Relations team introduced four members of Congress from the Illinois delegation to NPE exhibitors and attendees.
SPI's Carteaux Calls for a New Dialogue with Consumers at President's Lunch — July 1, 2009
An appreciative crowd of 400 plastics industry professionals attended the SPI President's Lunch in the West Hall of McCormick Place on Monday afternoon.
Students Explore Plastics Industry Careers via the NPE2009 Student Summit — July 1, 2009
The future of innovation and business acumen for the plastics industry is personified by the 30 bright and energetic college and high school students who attended the BPE2009 Speed Interview Session on Wednesday evening.
NPE2009 Comes to a Close After a Week of Concentrated Buying Power that Defied Today's Economy — June 26, 2009
The NPE2009 international plastics exposition ended today after exhibiting a high level of strength that contrasted with the current economic malaise and promised a better business climate to come.
Buying Power Remains Strong at NPE2009, Says SPI & Exhibitors — June 24, 2009
The key indicators that underscore the continued importance and relevancy of the plastics industry's triennial trade show to the global plastics marketplace are the 17,857 unique companies from 101 countries walking the floor at NPE2009.
Australia Initiates Trade Remedy Investigation on LLDPE from USA On May 28, 2009, the Australian government initiated an antidumping investigation involving imports of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) from the United States and Canada.
Chicago's Hotels, Shuttle Service & Convention Center Agree to Taking Precautions Against H1N1 for NPE Visitors — June 17, 2009
On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization officially declared H1N1 a pandemic. The Center for Disease Control stated that there are no restrictions on international travel, either within or from outside the U.S. at this time.
Deadline to Participate in 2009 North American Plastics Industry Study Extended — June 17, 2009
SPI and Plante & Moran, co-sponsors of the 2009 North American Plastics Industry Study, encourage molders and moldmakers to participate in the most in-depth benchmarking survey available to the plastics industry.
International Trade Center Blog at NPE2009 — June 17, 2009
Putting the Emphasis on TRADE in the International Center at NPE2009? You may not know this, but NPE is one of only about 35 trade shows being held in the United States this year that was chosen to participate in the Department of Commerce?s International Buyer Program.
Oregon DEQ Submits List of Priority Persistent Toxics in Water One June 1, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) submitted an Interim Final Priority Persistent Pollutant List to the Legislature. This list in the report is broken down into three Tiers.
Virginia Storm Water Regulation Addresses Discharge of Resin Pellets The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, State Water Control Board, issued a final amended regulation reissuing the existing general permit for industrial activity storm water disharges.
World's Largest Plastics Event Showcases How Plastics Contribute to a Sustainable World — June 17, 2009
NPE2009, the world's largest international plastics exposition and conference, will bring innovative products and technologies to Chicago that show just how critical plastics are to finding solutions to environmental issues and making the world more sustainable. Taking place June 22-26 at McCormick Place, NPE2009 promises to be a manifestation of the new industry consensus that providing solutions to sustainability issues is the path forward to create new customer values and move beyond today's business challenges.
In Negotiations with SPI, More Than Half of Chicago Hotels Agree to Lower Rates an Average of 14% for NPE2009 Visitors — June 5, 2009
Fifty-nine percent of the 66 hotels on the official housing list for NPE2009 visitors have lowered their rates by an average of 14%. The discounts apply retroactively to those who have already made their reservations as well as to those who have yet to do so. The deadline for advance reservations is May 14.
Deadline to Participate in 2009 North American Plastics Industry Study Extended — June 3, 2009
SPI and Plante & Moran, co-sponsors of the 2009 North American Plastics Industry Study, encourage molders and moldmakers to participate in the most in-depth benchmarking survey available to the plastics industry.
IRS Issues Stimulus Bill Fact Sheet On May 11, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued a fact sheet focusing on the business provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), also known as the "stimulus bill."
ITC Preliminarily Determines Injury to Domestic Plastics Bag Industry In a Federal Register notice issued on May 29, 2009, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) announced that it had preliminarily determined that the U.S. plastics bag industry is being materially injured by imports from Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia of polyethylene retail carrier bags as provided for in subheading 3923.21.00 of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
REACH Update: ECHA Moves Forward on Authorization Substances On May 26, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a press release announcing that its Member State Committee adopted the Secretariat?s view that seven substances of very high concern should be included on the Authorization List.
Upcoming International Trade Events — June 3, 2009
Compromise Sought on Miscellaneous Tariff Bill Senate Finance Committee staff have indicated that they are working with the staff of Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) to develop a miscellaneous tariff bill (MTB).
House Committee Completes Markup of Climate Change Bill After proposing a number of amendments aimed at slowing the progress of the "American Clean Energy and Security Act" (H.R. 2454), Republicans withdrew their threats and allowed the House Energy and Commerce Committee to complete its markup of the bill.
Movement on Panama FTA Slows Despite indications from the Administration that they were moving towards a vote on implementation of the U.S.-Panama Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the coming weeks, rising opposition in Congress will likely impede that timetable.
SPI Meets with Senate Minority Leader on "Card Check" Legislation Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) recently met with SPI and a select group of other leading trade associations to discuss the status of union "card check" legislation.
State Leaders Meeting: Economy Putting a Damper on New Programs The Council of State Governments recently held their spring meeting May 16-18 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. More than 400 state legislators and high ranking state government employees participated, and the keynote speakers included Governor Joe Manchin (WV), Governor Brian Schweitzer (MT) and Governor Butch Otter (ID).
Administration Releases More Information on Tax Proposals On May 11, the U.S. Treasury Department issued its Green Book further outlining the Administrations tax proposals for fiscal year 2010.
New Currency Bills Introduced in Senate and House On May 13, 2009, Representatives Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Tim Murphy (R-PA) introduced a bill (H.R. 2378) that would require the Department of Commerce to take currency misalignment into account when calculating antidumping or countervailing duties.
Plastics Exports Remain Weak But Continue to Show Signs of Improvement According to trade statistics issued last week by the U.S. International Trade Commission, U.S. plastics exports in March increased for the second month in a row, but remain significantly lower than for the same month in 2008.
SPI Urges Meaningful Trade Negotiations On May 14, in conjunction with other trade associations, SPI submitted a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk urging him to seek meaningful market access from the Doha negotiations.
SPI Urges Treasury to Provide Employers with Flexibility on Pension Plan Funding SPI has joined with other leading trade associations and companies in urging Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner to provide employers additional flexibility in meeting near-term defined benefit pension plan funding obligations.
Upcoming International Trade Events — May 20, 2009
White House Backs SPI's Efforts to Restore Permanent R&D Tax Credit On May 12, members of SPI's government affairs team met with Thomas Kalil, associate director for policy at the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy.
Plastics Lead the Way in Helping Automotive Manufacturers Meet President Obama's New Rules for Fuel Efficiency — May 19, 2009
As the Obama Administration today announced a groundbreaking policy for vehicle fuel economy, NPE2009 exhibitors and conference presenters were preparing to demonstrate how plastics will show the way for automotive manufacturers to meet the tough new standards.
New Technologies for Polymers Based on Renewable Resources Will Make NPE2009 a Milestone in Plastics History — April 14, 2009
Once the stuff of pure research, bioplastics have become a fast-growing business for marketers and technologists in the plastics industry mainstream. NPE2009, the central event in the industry?s calendar, will stand as a milestone in this historical transition.

2007

Exposition Management Expert Gene Sanders is New SPI Vice President of Trade Shows, with Responsibility for NPE2009 — July 17, 2007
The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc. (SPI) has appointed Gene Sanders as vice president of trade shows, it was announced today by SPI President and CEO William Carteaux.