7:30 – 8:15 a.m.
Breakfast

8:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Welcoming Remarks

Task Force Co-Chairs:
• Representative Al Carlson, North Dakota
• Representative Jeff Morris, Washington

8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Waste-to-Energy
New technologies allow cities to turn household waste into energy, often while meeting renewable electricity standards and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Converting waste to energy can be cleaner, more efficient, and cheaper than simply burying trash in a landfill. Explore technologies and drivers behind the growth of waste to energy power plants.

Speakers:
• Larry Hiner, Babcock & Wilcox Company
• David McConnell, Vice President of Business Development, Enerkem

9:30 – 10:45 a.m.
Planning for a Distributed Grid
Distributed energy resources—including rooftop solar, energy storage, electric vehicles, and combined heat and power systems—can lower costs by reducing utility expenditures on transmission and other infrastructure. When combined with technologies that provide accurate information on customer energy production and consumption, these resources can also help meet customer demand, improve reliability and defer expensive capital investments. Explore the effects of distributed resources on the electric grid and how state policy influences the integration of distributed resources.

Speakers:
• Ken Nichols, Principal, EQL Energy
• Jeffrey Roak, Technical Executive in Power Delivery and Utilization Sector, Electric Power Research Institute
• Jan Ahlen, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

10:45 – 11:00 a.m.
Break

11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Protecting the Nation’s Energy Infrastructure
Hurricanes, attacks on energy substations, severe cold, drought and cyber threats continue to demonstrate the importance of creating resilient energy infrastructure. Energy system failures and disruptions have serious economic and human welfare consequences. Federal regulatory actions also pose risks in how we plan our energy mix. Examine the major threats to the grid and how states can develop a more robust and reliable energy supply.

Speakers:
• Alice Lippert, Senior Technical Advisor to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Energy Infrastructure Modeling and Analysis, U.S. Department of Energy
• Robert W. Bradish, Vice President of Transmission Grid Development, American Electric Power

12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
Natural Gas, Air Quality and Federal Regulation
The policy environment for the U.S. natural gas market is rapidly evolving. One focal point is the federal government’s plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the electric power sector, where natural gas has played an increasingly prominent role during the last decade, and to cut methane emissions from oil and gas operations. Examine how new and evolving policy affects the U.S. energy system; how businesses make decisions in new policy environments; and the consequences of the interactions of these policies with the existing energy system.  (Lunch will be provided.)

Speaker:
• Richard Meyer, Manager, Policy Analysis, American Gas Association 

1:15 – 2:00 p.m.
Task Force Business Meeting

2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Third Party Solar Financing
A majority of rooftop solar system growth is now being driven by third party ownership, where the home or building owner does not own the system, but leases it or buys the electricity from a company that owns and maintains the system. The dramatic rise in third party ownership raising questions about the role of third party solar companies, incentives, loan alternatives and consumer protection. Explore these questions and how state policymakers are addressing them.

Speakers:
• Carolyn Davidson, Economic Analyst, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
• Senator Debbie Lesko, Arizona

3:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Depart for Steam Plant Tour (Task Force members and partners only)

3:15 – 5:00 p.m.
Seattle Steam Company Tour (Task Force members and partners only)
Visit the steam plant that provides heat for approximately 200 buildings in Seattle's Central Business District. The plant uses primarily biomass to generate steam that is distributed through 18 miles of pipe to many of the city's office buildings, hospitals, hotels and college campuses for heating buildings and heating water. Explore the steam plant technology and its role in providing low cost, low emissions energy for Seattle.

Speaker:
• Stan Gent, President, Enwave Seattle

Our nation's economy is evolving from a primarily state-based system into a more integrated national and global economy. With that shift comes the need for state tax systems to adapt in a way that does not impede economic growth, provides clarity and simplicity to taxpayers, and to ensure necessary revenues for appropriate government functions. Hear about the important and timely tax policy issues facing state legislators as they address the emerging taxation issues in the 21st century economy. Register on the Task Force Home Page Here.

1:00 – 1:05 p.m.
Welcome
Overview of the task force meeting and attendee introductions.

Co-Chairs:
• Senator Pam Althoff, Illinois
• Delegate Shelia Hixson, Maryland
• Representative Chris Perone, Connecticut

1:05 – 1:30 p.m.
Federal Legislation: e-Fairness
Update and discussion of federal legislation that would enable states to collect the sales and use taxes they are owed on remote transactions.

Panelists:
• Max Behlke, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
• Joe Rinzel, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA)
• Craig Johnson, Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board (SSTGB) 

1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
State Efforts: e-Fairness
Update and discussion of state efforts to collect the sales and use taxes they are owed on remote transactions.

Panelists:
• Stephen Kranz, McDermott Will & Emery
• Joe Crosby, Multistate Associates
• Leslie Fox, International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)

2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Business Meeting
Task force members discuss, review and vote on policies and resolutions up for consideration.

Presiding:
• Senator Pam Althoff, Illinois
• Delegate Shelia Hixson, Maryland
• Representative Chris Perone, Connecticut

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Property Taxation
During the November task force meeting in Scottsdale, the members heard from panelists about property tax administration. Discuss strengths and weaknesses of the property tax and options states can consider to improve their property tax systems. Discuss revenue trends and political pressure in states in 2016 as they relate to real property taxes. Hear Ed Noonan of United Rentals provide a five minute update on personal property taxes.

Panelists:
• Joe Crosby, Multistate Associates
• Ed Noonan, United Rentals
• Adam Langley, Lincoln Land Institute

3:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Property Taxation of Communications Infrastructure
At the Scottsdale meeting in November, members heard an update on the project to provide a primer for legislatures on property taxation of communications infrastructure. During this session, task force staff and members of the communications industry provide an update on the document for consideration.

Panelists:
• Max Behlke, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
• Jeff Hurley, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
• Scott Mackey, KSE Partners
• Deborah Bierbaum, AT&T
• Ellen Berenholz, Comcast

4:00 – 5:00 pm
Taxation of Marijuana
Twenty-three states, the District of Columbia and Guam have legalized medicinal marijuana and four states and the District of Columbia have approved recreational use. As more states consider legalization, those that have continue to grapple with how it is taxed. Examine the issues around assessment, enforcement and remittance of taxes on a substance the federal government classifies as a Schedule 1 drug.

Panelists:
• John Schochet, Deputy Chief of Staff, Seattle Attorney’s Office
• Hillary Bricken, Harris Moure PLLC
• Randy Simmons, Washington Liquor Control Board
• Andrew Freedman, Colorado Governor's Office of Marijuana Coordination (via phone)

Our nation's economy is evolving from a primarily state-based system into a more integrated national and global economy. With that shift comes the need for state tax systems to adapt in a way that does not impede economic growth, provides clarity and simplicity to taxpayers, and to ensure necessary revenues for appropriate government functions. Hear about the important and timely tax policy issues facing state legislators as they address the emerging taxation issues in the 21st century economy. Register on the Task Force Home Page Here.

7:00 – 7:55 a.m.
Breakfast

8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Transportation Funding
In recent years, transportation funding has become one of the most significant issues at both at the federal and state levels. Rising construction costs, the emergence of alternative fuel vehicles, and increased fuel efficiency of gasoline powered vehicles mean existing revenue streams aren’t cutting it. Explore the history of transportation revenue streams and what states can do to generate the necessary money to maintain and upgrade the nation’s roads and bridges.

Panelists:
• Bill Kramer, Multistate Associates
• Ben Husch, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
• Carl Davis, The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP)
• Senator Bruce Starr, Oregon 

9:00 – 9:15 a.m.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place—Class Action versus Qui Tam
Discuss how consumer protection, unfair trade practice, and qui tam statutes are being used to override and distort state tax policy, and examine efforts to develop a solution.

Panelist:
• Deborah Bierbaum, AT&T

9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Tax Expenditure Reports
The primary goal of state tax expenditure reports (or budgets) is to provide information to the public and policymakers about preferential tax provisions that reduce overall tax revenue. But defining what is “normal” in tax expenditure reports can be open for interpretation. Hear a discussion that provides clarity on how to understand the baseline, or defining the “normal tax base,” for state tax expenditures.

Panelists:
• Joe Crosby, Multistate Associates
• Joe Henchman, Tax Foundation
• Michael Mazerov, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

9:45 – 10:45 a.m.
Virtual Currency
During the January meeting, the task force heard about virtual currency and issues regarding its regulation and taxation. Hear what's happened since then, and the tax implications of what states should consider in this policy arena.

Panelists:
• Joel Waterfield, Grant Thornton LLP
• John Collins, Coinbase

10:45 – 11:00 a.m.
Transfer to Washington State Convention Center

11:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Fraud Alert! A New Wave of Federal and State Tax Return Fraud – Luncheon
While no one enjoys paying taxes, everyone likes to receive a tax refund. So, when thousands of taxpayers this year learned that their refunds had already been paid to someone else, they were understandably confused and incensed. Dive into this 21st century form of tax fraud, what the federal government is doing about, and learn about options for states to address this problem and protect the taxpayers.

NCSL gratefully acknowledges American Coalition for Taxpayer Rights (ACTR) for sponsoring this session.

Moderator:
• Representative Jay Kaufman, Massachusetts

Panelists:  
• Steve Ryan, McDermott Will &Emery
• Paul Mamo, Submission Processing, Internal Revenue Service
• Corey Smith, Tax Division, U.S. Department of Justice
• David Sullivan, Rhode Island Department of Revenue
• Senator Curt Bramble, Utah

7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
International Attendee Registration
All badges will be distributed onsite.  You can pick up your badge, registration materials and meeting program from the Registration Area in the Convention Center.
NOTE:  Registration is located at the Washington Convention Center.

8:15 – 9:15  a.m.
International Delegation Welcome & Introductions
International legislators and staff meet colleagues and counterparts from across the globe. Each delegation will introduce its members.

Coffee will be available.

9:15 – 10:45 a.m.
Managing Your Online Image: Social Media Platforms in the Legislature
Participate in small group discussions with U.S. state legislators and legislative staff following a briefing on social media and online platform techniques.  A U.S. facilitator and list of suggested questions are at each table and main discussion points are shared with the room. Take this opportunity to network and exchange ideas with counterparts from around the world.

Speakers:
Andrew McVicar, Deputy Communications Director, House Democratic Caucus, Washington State Legislature
Sarah Stewart, Public Information Officer, Web and Social Media Coordinator, House Republican Caucus

10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Mechanics of Trade:  The Role of Infrastructure in Supporting Economic Growth
Given the world's increasing reliance on trade for spurring economic growth, it is essential that countries, regions, and states are looking at the infrastructure necessary to remain competitive and to reach trade goals.  Key infrastructure, such as highways, ports, rail and air, in addition to workforce development, are critical components to a robust economy.  Join us for a discussion and hear from experts and practitioners on the role that infrastructure plays in supporting economic growth goals around the world. 

Speakers:
Sam Kaplan, President, Seattle Trade Development Alliance, Washington
The Honorable Michael Sutherland, Speaker, Parliament of Western Australia
The Honorable Michael L. MacDonald, Senator, Parliament of Canada

11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
International Attendee Luncheon with Deputy Mayor of Seattle, Hyeok Kim
Hear from the Honorable Hyeok Kim, deputy mayor of Seattle, about the important role that Seattle holds in the state and its rich history of multiculturalism.

Speakers:
The Honorable Hyeok Kim, Deputy Mayor of Seattle, Washington

1:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Visit to Nintendo of America Inc. Headquarters

Buses will depart promptly at 1:15 p.m. from the Washington State Convention Center and will arrive back at the Convention Center around 3:30 p.m. Participate in a visit to Nintendo of America Inc. Headquarters in Redmond, Washington. You will hear from two of the company’s top executives of Nintendo. Attendees will participate in a briefing on the history of the company, showcasing its products, innovations and entrepreneurship over the past 35 years.  You will also be given a tour of Nintendo’s new headquarters building, designed with features qualifying the structure as environmentally friendly. Participation will be on a first come, first serve basis. We will order buses based on the number of RSVPs we receive for the tour. RSVP to courtney.bjorgaard@ncsl.org by Thursday, July 16th. 

Speakers:

Mr. Don James, Executive Vice President, Operations, Nintendo of America, Inc.

Mr. Flip Morse, Senior Vice President, Corporate Resources, Nintendo of America, Inc.

The 2015 Environmental Health Workshop explores the relationship between the environment and its impact on public health. The plenary sessions highlight three major policy concerns--hydraulic fracturing, water resources and a breakfast discussion on environmental justice--providing an open forum with experts in the field on their health impacts. Enjoy a lunch session afterward, with experts from several fields of environmental health policy. Discuss approaches to address toxics and chemicals, indoor air quality, U.S. Mexico border health concerns, environmental public health labs, and PCBs in schools. For further information, please contact Doug Farquhar (doug.farquhar@ncsl.org or 303-856-1397).

7:30 – 8:45 a.m.
Breakfast Session – Environmental Justice
Environmental justice remains a challenging issue for vulnerable communities and state policy makers. Join and participate in an open dialogue on one of the most challenging issues in environmental health with legislators, government officials, academics, advocates and members of the environmental community. 
Breakfast will be provided.

Speakers:
• Dr. Robin Fuchs-Young, COEC Director, NIEHS Center (CTEHR), Texas A&M University
• Dr. Johnnye Lewis, Director, Community Environmental Health Program, University of New Mexico
• Dr. Elena Craft, Environmental Defense Fund, Austin, Texas
• Dr. Clarita Lefthand-Begay, Department of American Indian Studies, University of Washington

9 – 10:15 a.m.
Hydraulic Fracturing and Environmental Health – Plenary Dialogue Session
Hydraulic fracturing has provided economic revitalization to many communities, but it has also brought on the impact it is having on the public’s health. Learn from scientific experts about the potential health concerns and options to avoid them.

Speakers:
• Dr. Erin Haynes, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, NIEHS Center
• Dr. Elena Craft, Environmental Defense Fund, Austin, Texas
• Dr. Gretchen Onstad, Department of Environment and Occupational Health Sciences, NIEHS Center (CEEH), University of Washington
• Representative T.J. Berry, Missouri

10:15 – 10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Water and Health: Quality and Quantity– Plenary Dialogue Session
From the drought in the far West, to chemical spills in West Virginia, to algal outbreaks in the Midwest, water is the critical resource for both the public health, economic development and agricultural communities. Explore efforts to maximize water resources, hear how states are addressing agricultural runoff in water, and learn about efforts to maintain healthy water resources.

Speakers:
• Professor David Osterberg, College of Public Health, Co-Director, Research Translation Core, Superfund Research Center, NIEHS Center (EHSRC), University of Iowa
• Representative Gary Scherer, Ohio 
• Assemblyman Adam Gray, California
• Ann K. Aquillo, Vice-President, The ScottsMiracle-Gro Company

12:00 – 1:15 p.m.
Lunch: Roundtable Discussion
Join the discussion on environmental health science concerns during this interactive session with experts from the academic and public health community.  Box lunches will be provided.

Topics include:
• Environmental Public Health Labs – Ruhiyyih Degeberg, APHL
• PCBs in Schools – Professor David Osterberg, College of Public Health, Co-Leader Research Translation Core, Superfund Research Center, NIEHS Center (EHSRC), University of Iowa
• U.S.–Mexico Border Environmental-Health Concerns – Dr. Robin Fuchs-Young, COEC Director, NIEHS Center (CTEHR), Texas A&M University
• Mining and Health – Dr. Johnnye Lewis, Director, Community Environmental Health Program, University of New Mexico
• Toxics and Chemicals – Dr. Terrence Kavanagh, Director, NIEHS Center (CEEH), University of Washington
• Indoor Air Quality/Radon – Professor Bruce Snead, Director, Engineering Extension, Kansas State University and Pat Daniels, Illinois Emergency Management Agency

Examine issues affecting military-community relations and the health and well-being of veterans. Discuss veteran employment, education and mental health, female veterans, and the impact of defense budget cuts.

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
Breakfast

8:00 – 8:10 a.m.
Task Force on Military and Veterans Affairs Convenes

Opening Remarks by Task Force Co-Chairs:
• Representative Dan Flynn, Texas
• Representative Ken Ito, Hawaii

Pledge of Allegiance

Introductions:  Task Force Members and Guests

8:10 – 8:20 a.m.
Welcome to Washington

Speaker:
• Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, Adjutant General, Washington National Guard

8:20 – 8:35 a.m.
Discussion of Proposed Policy Resolutions

Sponsor:
• Representative Tom Sloan, Kansas

8:35 – 9:15 a.m.
From Military Service to "Green" Service: Lessons from the Washington State Veterans Conservation Corps 

Presiding:
• Kristin Thomasgard-Spence, Program Director for Policy, Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment)

Speakers:
• Hannah Anderson, Program Manager, Center for Natural Lands Management, Olympia, Washington
• Jason Alves, Program Manager, Veterans Conservation Corps, Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
• Matt West, Intern Coordinator, Veterans Conservation Corps, Olympia, Washington

9:15 – 9:30 a.m.
Update from the DoD-State Liaison Office

Presiding:
• Representative Ken Ito, Hawaii

Speaker:
• Thomas Hinton, Senior State Liaison, Office of the Undersecretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness)

9:30 – 10:10 a.m.
Potential Impacts from Defense Budget Cuts and Available Resources

Presiding:
• Representative Dan Flynn, Texas

Speakers:
• Gary Willis, Program Director, U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Economic Adjustment, Washington, D.C.
• Kristine Reeves, Governor Inslee's Military and Defense Sector Lead, Washington

10:10 – 10:25 a.m.
Break

10:25 – 10:55 a.m.
U.S. Army Reserve: "Twice the Citizen"

Presiding:
• Representative Dan Flynn, Texas

Speaker:
• Maj. Gen. Glenn Lesniak, Deputy Chief of the Army Reserve

10:55 – 11:15 a.m.
Veterans Hiring Commitments in the Private Sector

Presiding:
• Representative Ken Ito, Hawaii

Speaker:
• Bill McSherry, Vice President of State and Local Government, and Global Corporate Citizenship, Boeing Company, Washington

11:15 a.m. – Noon
Military Suicide Prevention

Presiding:
• Representative Tina Orwall, Washington

Speakers:
• Lourdes E. "Alfie" Alvarado-Ramos, Director, Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
• Sue Eastgard, Director of Training, Forefront: Innovations in Suicide Prevention, Seattle, Washington
• Paul Quinnett, President and CEO, QPR Institute, Inc., Spokane, Washington
• Scot Pondelick, President, National Alliance to End Veteran Suicide; Chair, King County Veterans Advisory Board; Co-Founder, The Veterans Resource Fair

Noon – 1:15 p.m.
State Support for Female Veterans
Joint with Women’s Legislative Network of NCSL
Sponsored by Easter Seals.

Examine how states are addressing the unique needs of female veterans regarding education, employment and reintegration.  (Lunch will be provided.)

Speakers:
• Col. David W. Sutherland, U.S. Army (Ret.), Chairman and Co-Founder, Easter Seals Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, Washington, D.C.
• Kimberly M. Mitchell (Former U.S. Navy), President and Co-Founder, Easter Seals Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, Washington, D.C.

1:15 p.m.
Adjournment

If you plan to attend the Task Force on Immigration & the States Pre-Conference Meeting, please register here. More information about the Task Force can be found here.

State legislators continue to be innovators in developing immigration solutions appropriate to their states, such as education/language assistance, driver's licenses, instate tuition, and economic integration of skilled immigrants. Hear about fiscal and economic impacts of immigrants, state efforts to capitalize on immigrant talent, and federal programs that support business development and entrepreneurship. Find out about the White House Task Force on New Americans and efforts to promote citizenship and immigrant integration. More information about the Task Force can be found here. The meeting is sponsored by the Task Force on Immigration and the States but open to legislators and legislative staff conference-wide and other registrants.

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
Breakfast

8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
Welcome and Introductions
Discussion of Task Force business and 2015 activities; highlights from the release of NCSL's report on state immigration laws enacted in 2015. 

Moderators:
• Senator Ellen Roberts, Colorado
• Senator Mo Denis, Nevada

9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Immigration and Economic Development
Both federal and state governments are crafting new ways to strengthen skills of immigrant workers and support business development by immigrant entrepreneurs.  Panelists will include a representative from the U.S. Small Business Administration and a local immigrant business.  

Speakers:
• Brian Surratt, Director, Office of Economic Development, City of Seattle
• Taylor Hoang, Small Business Owner, Washington
• Mark Giralt, Immigration Program Manager, Embassy of Canada

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Innovations in Immigrant Integration
State legislators have been leading the way in supporting immigrant families and workers, from driver's licenses to health care access to professional licensing.  The White House Task Force on New Americans is creating a strategic plan on refugee and immigrant integration and seeks recommendations how to effectively engage with partners in state government.  

Speakers:
• Juliet Choi, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Chief of Staff
• Senator Ricardo Lara, California
• Representative Joe Miro, Delaware

12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Working Lunch/Immigration Focus Group
Discuss recent activity on immigration in their states, review the task force questionnaire and identify priorities for 2015-16 task force activities. 

Sponsored by:  NCSL gratefully acknowledges The Pew Charitable Trusts for sponsoring this lunch.

7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Breakfast

8:00 – 8:15 a.m.
Welcome and Introductions

8:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Smart, Efficient and Clean—Why Businesses are Engaging in Energy Policy
A number of industry and business leaders are leveraging clean energy technology and policy opportunities to save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and spur investment. More companies are adopting clean energy strategies to improve their bottom line and meet the needs of investors, customers and consumers. What does this mean for energy policy in the states? How can policymakers engage with the private sector on state energy policy? Hear from companies investing in this area and discuss what’s driving these changes.

Moderator:
• Representative Jeff Morris, Washington 

Speakers:
• Jonas Kron, Senior Vice President, Director of Shareholder Advocacy, Trillium Asset Management
• Jim Hanna, Director, Environmental Impact, Starbucks Coffee Company
• Anna Pavlova, Vice President of Government Relations, Schneider Electric
• Rob Bernard, General Manager, Chief Environmental and Cities Strategist, Microsoft

9:45 – 10:00 a.m.
Break

10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Changing the Mix with EPA Climate Regulations
The proposed EPA greenhouse gas emissions rules have the potential to create massive changes in the electric energy industry. Discuss how the nation’s fuel and energy producers adapt and what role they paly in helping states meet these requirements. Examine the challenges the energy industry faces and what state policies will influence them.

Moderator:
• Representative Tom Sloan, Kansas

Speakers:
• Susan Mathiascheck, Senior Director, Environmental Policy, Nuclear Energy Institute
• Matt Stanberry, Vice President of Market Development, Advanced Energy Economy
• Erica Bowman, Vice President of Research and Policy Analysis, America's Natural Gas Alliance
• Margaret Hodnik, Vice President of Regulatory and Legislative Affairs, Minnesota Power/ALLETE 

11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Exporting Coal, Oil and Natural Gas
The slowing demand for coal, along with the increasing production of natural gas and crude, is increasing the interest in exporting these products outside the U.S. Supporters claim this will help American products reach higher demand markets, while some critics are concerned about the impact on domestic energy prices and the environment. Explore the motivations, policy implications, benefits and challenges to increasing the export of the nation’s fossil fuel resources. (Lunch will be provided.)

Moderator:
• Representative Al Carlson, North Dakota

Speakers:
• Bill Chapman, Chief Executive Officer, Millennium Bulk
• Joe Ritzman, Vice President of Business Development, SSA Marine
• Johan Hellman, Executive Director of State Government Affairs, BNSF Railway
• Ross MacFarlane, Senior Advisor for Business Partnerships, Climate Solutions
• American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers

Explore one important factor that often holds women back from being the most effective leaders we could be: ourselves. Using humor and examples, we will explore how closely tied our success is with our ability to initiate and navigate courageous (A.K.A. difficult!) conversations. Discuss how to give feedback to a colleague, address the seemingly intractable challenge within your caucus, propose the bold idea you've been sitting on, or acknowledge the "elephant in the subcommittee" that everyone has been avoiding. In this lively, thought-provoking session, you’ll learn how to:
• Identify the factors that are holding you back from speaking up
• Increase your skills and confidence in how to identify and prepare for important conversations
• Articulate strategies to navigate high-stakes conversations effectively
• Connect with your peers to access the collective wisdom in the room, sharing success stories and lessons learned

Did you know that approximately half of people who are incarcerated have a child under the age of 18? States struggle to balance the need to enforce child support orders and provide for children, with the potentially damaging consequences that incarceration can have on the parent’s ability to pay. Hear what states are doing to keep parents out of jail, reduce recidivism, and improve the employment prospects of formerly incarcerated parents.

Examine how states are addressing the unique needs of female veterans regarding education, employment and reintegration.

Speaker:
• Col. David W. Sutherland, Chairman, Easter Seals Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, Washington, D.C.

The culture of the legislature is changing, and most people believe it is a change for the worse. At the heart is decreasing trust among members, staff, and the people they serve, and the belief that legislatures can effectively solve complex social problems. The Returning to Trust program is a facilitator-led, interactive learning experience designed to teach participants how to reestablish the connections, practices, values and organizational culture that build trust.

What you'll learn:
--Thorough discussions and exercises get at the reasons that people say the "fun" has gone out of legislative service.
--Identify values critical to the effectiveness of state legislatures.
--Learn how to set goals and take actions that foster a culture of civility, respect and trust within our treasured institutions.
--Take home new tools, skills and an action plan to begin similar discussions in your state capitol.

-- Welcome and Introductions
-- Federal Update: Committee staff review key federal regulatory, legislative and court actions related to health and human services programs.
-- Review of the NCSL Policy process
-- Review of Proposed Consent Calendar
-- Review of Policies to be debated on Tuesday
-- Request for amendments to policies to be debated on Tuesday

Brian Baird, former six term U.S. representative and a clinical psychologist, is an avid proponent of ethical conduct in the legal and legislative professions. Baird discusses how the ability to effectively communicate relates to ethical practice and conduct for legislators, legislative staff and legislative attorneys. This engaging and entertaining presentation provides best practices to develop strong, strategic and ethical communication in your legislature.

What you'll learn:

• The six essential elements of communication and how they affect ethical thinking and conduct.
• Practical application of communication principals to those situations that appear to be ethically ambiguous.
• The power of ethical reasoning and choosing to do what is right.

Come and meet your fellow LSS-ers at the Summit! This low-key dutch-treat reception will be at the Tap House Grill – an easy, right-around-the-corner walk from the convention center. Leadership staff will meet in the Billiards Lounge. Then, you and your new friends can head back to the opening social event!

Tap House Grill: 1506 6th Ave, Seattle

The day begins with a visit to one of Washington's most popular scenic attractions, Snoqualmie Falls. Here, the Snoqualmie River cascades 270 feet through a spectacular rock gorge into a 65-foot-deep pool. On top of the falls sits one of Seattle’s most romantic getaways, the Salish Lodge & Spa, which may look familiar to fans of "Twin Peaks," as it was featured in the '90s TV hit.

The tour will continue to Boehm's Candy Kitchen, where you will sample the region's premier Swiss chocolates, watch the candy-making process and tour the property. The tour will continue to Januik Winery where guests will enjoy a wine tasting lunch. The final stop of the day is nearby Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery. Here you will learn the fine art and science of wine-making, enjoy a wine tasting and stroll the beautiful, arboretum-like grounds.

Cost is $105.

International parliamentarians and parliamentary staff travel to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia, Washington. Hear from Washington legislators and legislative staff and enjoy a tour of the Washington Legislature. Lunch will be provided.

10:00 a.m.
Busses depart for the Washington State Capitol Building

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tour of the Capitol Building

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch and Welcome at Pritchard Cafe, Washington State Capitol Building

Welcome Remarks:

• The Honorable Brad Owen, Lieutenant Governor and President of the Senate, Washington

1:00 – 2:15 p.m.
U.S. Legislative Process and Mock Floor Debate, House Chambers

Speaker:

• Bernard Dean, Deputy Chief Clerk (invited)
• Barbara Baker, Chief Clerk (invited)

2:15 p.m.
Busses Depart Washington State Capitol

3:30 p.m.
Busses arrive at the Seattle Convention Center

Municipal Broadband
In light of the FCC’s recent Municipal Broadband Order, should states be concerned about continuing to allow this process?

Net Neutrality
What is it? How does it affect you? And is this set of rules here to stay?

Broadband in 2016
What should legislators have their mind on for next session?

Formatted as a legislative committee hearing, participants will hear from a series of panelists on EPA's greenhouse gas emission proposed standards. NRI Committee members will be at the helm, directing the panelists' statements and asking in-depth questions.

Panel 1:
• Kate Kelly, Director, Region 10, Office of Air, Waste and Toxics, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Washington
• Dennis McLerran, Region 10 Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Washington 

Panel 2:
• Honorable Tony Clark, Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
• Kathleen Robertson, Sr. Environmental & Fuels Policy Manager, Exelon
• Craig Glazer, Vice President, Federal Government Policy, PJM Interconnection

Panel 3:
• Roger Martella, Partner, Sidley Austin LLP
• David Hoppock, Senior Policy Associate, Duke University Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions
• Doug Scott, Vice President Strategic Initiatives, Great Plains Institute

4:30 – 5 p.m. 
Vice Presidential Candidates

5 – 6 p.m.
All NCSL Executive Committee Candidates 

Colorado and Washington are trailblazers in legalized marijuana, but the potholes and blind curves are plenty. Among them: the potential for revenue, licensing businesses, regulating practices and products, enforcement and more.

What you'll learn:
-- All the matters you might not anticipate, regulation of edibles and new cannabis products.
--The money—how much to expect, tax rates, and revenue estimates.
-- What drugged driving looks like from the experts enforcing it in the field.

Society is moving at break-neck speed. It's difficult to keep up with rapid change and nearly impossible to stay ahead of it. Take a glimpse into the future and what’s in store for people, jobs and commerce. How will you and your state face the future—seen and unforeseen? Fasten your seat belts, it’s going to be an exciting ride!

What you'll learn:
--Where society is headed and how you can take advantage of imminent changes by being innovative and nimble with new technology.
--What are the jobs of the future?
--What it means for you, your constituents and the policy you craft.

Funding transportation is a perennial problem. And there are myriad reasons: construction costs are rising, travel patterns are changing, electric cars are emerging, and gas tax revenue isn't cutting it. Legislatures have to do something—and quick. Attend this session and you’ll create a roadmap to a sound transportation plan that creates sustainable revenue, prepares for the future and meets immediate transportation needs.

What you'll learn:
--Methods to meet short-term needs for funding your state's transportation system.
-- The newest, bold ideas from states to create long-term, sustainable transportation revenues.
-- How measuring performance, prioritizing projects and strategic spending can stretch existing transportation money.

Kids become adults and then run the world. If they have brilliant brains—because we've invested in them early on—we can move from preschool to prosperity as a nation. Scientific and economic research shows that directing money into the health and education of children when they're very young can solve some of our most intractable problems.

What you'll learn:
--How brain science works.
--The economics of early childhood investment—and the pay-off.
--What's the proof—lower crime, better health, higher graduation rates.
--How pioneering states, like Washington's, are building human capital and a stronger workforce.