Latest news with #TTA
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Texas bill, a trucking priority for tort reform, dies in House committee
Legislation that passed the Texas Senate last month and that the trucking industry believed would bring about 'much-needed reforms' in trucking-related lawsuits has died in the House. But another piece of legislation backed by the industry, SB30, and its companion bill, HB 4806, are still considered alive as the Texas state legislative session races toward its Monday conclusion. The companion House bill to SB39, approved in April, was HB 4688. It was referred to the Committee for Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. While the House of Representatives' docket for the legislation shows several steps at the committee, including public hearings, there is no vote on the list of no action taken on the bill in recent days, barring a miraculous turn of events, the bill is considered dead in the Texas Legislature, which meets every two years. When the bill passed in the Senate, it was hailed by the Texas Trucking Association. In a prepared statement released at the time, TTA President John Esparaza said the legislation 'marks a significant step forward in protecting the integrity of our legal system and Texas trucking industry.' 'This bill introduces much-needed reforms to how commercial motor vehicle collision cases are handled in Texas courts,' he said at the time. 'These reforms will establish fair, consistent, and statewide standards, helping to ensure that justice is applied equally across the state.' But in a statement released to FreightWaves Thursday, Esparaza conceded defeat for this session.'SB 39 was an important piece of our tort reform package …,' he said in the statement. 'As a priority…we are disappointed that SB 39 died in the House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee and will not become law this session.' In a commentary about what SB39 and its companion House bill would have accomplished, attorneys for the law firm of Lewis Brisbois touched on several key points. One change would have minimized questions about the background of the driver, according to the law firm. 'Where defendant trucking companies have already stipulated to their drivers being in the course and scope of employment, plaintiffs' attorneys can no longer inflame juries with arguments about the trucking companies' actions when they have no causal/legal relationship with the harms alleged,' Lewis Brisbois said. 'In other words, if a case goes on to trial, then the jury should solely be focused on the actions of the drivers involved in the incident.' SB39 also was the vehicle that the TTA spoke of last year in trying to complete the unfinished work of HB 19, passed in 2021 but generally seen as not providing the relief in litigation that trucking attorneys had expected. In an interview last year with FreightWaves, Lee Parsley, general counsel for Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLS), said one of the goals of HB 19 was to give new emphasis to the 'admission rule.' Last year, Parsley said of that rule: 'It basically says that if I, as the employer, agree to accept responsibility for my employees' actions that may have caused the injury, it is supposed to simplify the trial. You don't need to go down the rabbit hole of figuring out things like negligent hiring and negligent training. It's supposed to simplify it so that in the trial, you're just focused on who actually caused the accident and what the damages are at that point.' The Lewis Brisbois commentary said SB39 would have 'recognized the admissions rule by eliminating key exceptions.' Quoting a precedent involving Werner Enterprises (NASDAQ: WERN), the attorneys said the admission rule clarifies that an 'employer's admission that an employee was acting in the course and scope of their employment when the employee allegedly engaged in negligent conduct bars a party allegedly injured by the employee's negligence from pursuing derivative theories of negligence against the employer.' That citation quoted by the attorneys is from the case of Blake vs. Werner, the nuclear verdict initially handed down in 2018 and which now awaits a decision by the Texas Supreme Court following oral arguments in December. The original verdict, less than $90 million, has ballooned to more than $100 million with case involves the death and injuries in a family that crossed the median strip in bad winter weather in West Texas and collided with a Werner truck headed the other direction. The jury verdict that the Werner driver should have been going slower in that weather and would therefore not have been in position to slam into the oncoming vehicle has been a particular source of anger within trucking. But the Blake family involved in the crash won at trial and on appeal before it headed to the state's highest court. The Lewis Brisbois commentary said the critics of SB39 'have voiced concerns that this change will further stifle plaintiffs' abilities to ensure that juries consider all parties and trucking companies' own liability in the harms by alleged company misdeeds.' There is still hope at the TTA for SB30, which seeks to limit various types of payouts in crashes involving trucks through a variety of steps. Like SB39, SB30 passed the Senate. It is considered to have life as HB 4806 before the end of the legislative session. 'We will continue to pursue tort reform in SB30, however, as we head into the weekend and our final day of session on Monday, June 2,' Esparaza said. HB 4806, is still listed as being in committee in the House. In a blog post from the law firm of Varghese Summersett, which among other activities represents plaintiffs suing trucking companies, the firm summed up the key points in the legislation. It would place caps on economic damages, the firm said. It restricts payouts only to amounts paid by the plaintiffs rather than what was billed by the providers of health care services to the plaintiffs. It makes changes in rules of evidence and also changes various liability standards. A jury must be unanimous in settling on noneconomic standards. There is also a shift in defining interest charges. In a summary of SB30 published by TLS, the organization said the combined SB30/HB 4806 'guides jurors with fair and consistent rules for awarding noneconomic damages, ensuring they are truly compensatory.' Among the provisions in the bill, according to TLS, are that the legislation 'gives jurors understandable definitions of pain and suffering and mental anguish and clear instructions that those damages should be based on the plaintiff's injury — not the defendant's conduct that is unrelated to the incident being litigated — and cannot be used to punish a defendant.' More articles by John Kingston Georgia tort reform aims to change practices in judicial 'hell hole' A Lego approach helps prepare Manhattan Associates' TMS for tariff chaos BMO's Q2 earnings show no improvement in credit conditions for trucking The post Texas bill, a trucking priority for tort reform, dies in House committee appeared first on FreightWaves.
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
TTA, a Certified Women-Owned Business, Named Top Learning Services Company for Fourth Consecutive Year
TTA proudly announces its recognition as a Top 20 Learning Services Company, marking the fourth consecutive year the company has received this award. 'We are committed to helping organizations achieve their learning goals. This recognition reflects the services we offer and how they help clients be agile and achieve results with on-demand talent.'— Maria Melfa, President and CEO MARLBOROUGH, MA, UNITED STATES, May 29, 2025 / / -- TTA proudly announces its recognition as a Top 20 Learning Services Company by Training Industry for 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year the company has received this prestigious distinction. This honor reflects our commitment to excellence and innovation in learning and development services. For over 30 years, TTA has been a trusted partner to organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, across all industries. Organizations rely on us for strategic learning solutions, including learning strategy, instructional design, training delivery, and expert L&D talent matched to each initiative. Our extensive network of highly qualified learning and development talent leverages the latest technologies and learning techniques to meet the unique needs of our clients, supporting their most innovative projects and initiatives. Training Industry, the leading research and information resource for corporate learning leaders, prepares the Training Industry Top 20 and Training Industry Watch List reports on critical sectors of the training marketplace to better inform professionals about the best and most innovative providers of training services and technologies. Selection to the 2025 Training Industry Top Learning Services Companies lists was determined on the following criteria: • Scope and quality of learning services. • Market presence, brand visibility, innovation, and impact. • Strength of client portfolio and customer relationships. • Business performance and growth trajectory. In addition to this recognition, TTA has received multiple accolades, including Top 20 Outsourcing Company (12 years), Watch List Leadership Training Company (8 years), Top 20 IT and Technology Company (13 years), Top Custom Content Development Company (9 years), and Top Staffing and Temporary Resources Company (2 years), and has received numerous Brandon Hall awards with our clients for innovation. 'At TTA, we are deeply committed to helping organizations achieve their learning goals, and we are honored to be recognized once again for Learning Services,' said Maria Melfa, President and CEO of TTA. 'This recognition reflects the wide range of services we offer and how they enable clients to be more agile and achieve results with on-demand talent. We are truly thankful for our clients who trust us as their training partner.' 'The companies selected for this year's Top 20 Learning Services list demonstrated a remarkable range of capabilities, delivering high-quality, end-to-end solutions including content development, learning technologies, strategic guidance, delivery support, and administrative services,' said Jalen Banks, Market Research Analyst at Training Industry, Inc. 'Through their innovation and measurable impact in the corporate training space, these providers are well-positioned to craft effective learning solutions tailored to any organization's needs.' About TTA TTA is a globally recognized, women-owned, certified business known for its agility in supporting learning and development initiatives of all sizes across diverse training modalities. Leveraging a vast network of on-demand, top-tier training talent, TTA expertly addresses all design, development, and delivery requirements using advanced technologies and contemporary learning strategies. In addition to this honor, TTA has consistently been recognized across multiple categories, including: • Top 20 Outsourcing Company (12 years) • Top 20 Learning Services Company (4 years) • Top 20 Staffing and Temporary Resources Company (2 years) • Top 20 IT and Technology Company (13 years) • Watch List Leadership Training Company (8 years) • Top Custom Content Development Company (9 years) TTA has also secured numerous Brandon Hall awards in partnership with its clients for innovation in learning. For more information, visit About Training Industry, Inc. Training Industry ( ) is the most trusted source of information on the business of learning. Our authority is built on deep ties with more than 450 expert contributors who share insights and actionable information with their peers. Training Industry's courses, live events, articles, magazines, webinars, podcasts, research, and reports generate more than 10 million industry interactions each year, while the Top 20 Training Companies Lists help business leaders find the right training partners. For a complimentary referral, visit Rebecca Gendron TTA (The Training Associates) +1 508-890-8500 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
WPC Announces Launch of Ki Certification Testing
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The kitchen of the future is one giant step closer to reality with the completion of Ki certification testing of the first Ki Cordless Kitchen products. Following the release of the Ki specification last December, advancing Ki Cordless Kitchen products through certification testing represents a significant milestone in the launch of WPC's newest standard in the application of wireless power. Ki's launch follows the launch of Qi2, WPC's highly successful next-generation standard for small consumer electronics, which was available in over 1.5 billion devices worldwide by the end of its first year. The Ki Cordless Kitchen standard revolutionizes everyday kitchen appliances – such as blenders, toasters, air fryers, and water kettles – by eliminating power cords and adding a communication channel between the appliance and the Ki power unit. The Ki power function will initially be available in induction cooktops or standalone Ki power units. Future Ki releases in development are aimed at adding support for concealed Ki power units mounted under countertops or kitchen islands. 'The Ki standard brings unprecedented innovation to the most used room in the house - the kitchen', said Paul Struhsaker, Executive Director of the WPC. 'Ki eliminates the mess, inconvenience and potential safety issues of power cords, which is something consumers have told us repeatedly is an important benefit. Ki will not only change the way people cook and prepare food by making cooking and clean up easier, but it will even change the way kitchens look, enabling sleek modern designs and better utilization of space. We congratulate, Elektro-Gerätebau Oberderdingen GmbH (E.G.O)., Koninklijke Philips NV, Telecommunications Technology Association of Korea (TTA), Resillion (Belgium), and Defion BV for leading the way in Ki's launch: E.G.O. for the first Ki certified induction module, Philips for contributing its Ki technology, TTA and Resillion for becoming the first authorized Ki certification test labs, and Defion for providing the certification tools and equipment supporting the development of Ki Cordless Kitchen products." Opportunities to learn more about Ki WPC members will be conducting two Ki seminars in June: in Seoul June 25 th hosted by TTA and in Guangzhou June 27 th hosted by SGS. More information will be available on the WPC website shortly. Members of WPC's leadership team will be at IFA Berlin in September to meet with companies interested in the Ki standard and WPC membership. If you will be at IFA and are interested in meeting to learn more, please let us know through the contact information below. The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) is the prevailing standards organization for wireless power applications worldwide, representing more than 300 member companies including industry leaders such as Apple, Bosch, Google, Huawei, Philips and Samsung. Since its founding in 2008, the WPC has provided consumers and manufacturers with a vision of wireless power that is convenient, safe, and efficient while ensuring standardized testing offers products that are certificated and interoperable. The WPC's Qi standard is the global standard for wireless charging mobile, handheld electronic devices. The WPC is continuously exploring new applications of wireless power including the Ki standard for cordless kitchen appliances.
Associated Press
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Taiwan Tourism Captivates Los Angeles with its Waves of Wonder Highlight Event
LOS ANGELES, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) brought the vibrant culture of Taiwan to Los Angeles this past weekend with one of its most memorable events of the year — Waves of Wonderland — held at Westfield Century City's iconic Atrium. Just weeks ahead of the first anniversary of TTA's 3.0 brand relaunch, 'Taiwan – Waves of Wonder,' the event delivered a high-energy, family-friendly experience designed to immerse Angelenos in the beauty, fun, and culture of Taiwan. Transforming the bustling courtyard into a mini fairground, the event featured hands-on activity booths, eye-catching performances, and interactive experiences — all inspired by the essence of Taiwan's rich tourism offerings. With tens of thousands of weekend shoppers passing through Westfield Century City, and even more reached through social media thanks to a flight ticket giveaway courtesy of STARLUX Airlines, the event made a splash not only in LA but across America. From traditional Taiwanese pinball, umbrella painting hosted by Mr. Brown Coffee, to a DIY sand art station and a night market-style pitching game, the booths offered a sensory trip to Taiwan. A major crowd favorite was the #DanceToTaiwan booth hosted by China Airlines, where visitors could groove to the 'Dance to the Waves of Wonder' theme song and record their moves as part of TTA's online dance challenge. The #DanceToTaiwan online challenge gives participants a chance to win 1 of 3 round-trip flights to Taiwan from China Airlines. Each ticket will be awarded by one of the dance stars, who recently filmed energetic dances across Taiwan's most iconic landmarks. To enter and learn more, visit Vivian Lin, Director of TTA's Los Angeles office, shared her excitement about the success of the event and the growth of Taiwan tourism: 'North America hit record highs last year, and we're incredibly grateful to our airline partners for helping make Taiwan more accessible than ever. With programs like 'Taiwan the Lucky Land' offering foreign visitors the chance to win NT$5,000 (~US$150) just by landing in Taiwan, and exclusive Buy-One-Get-One-Free High Speed Rail tickets, the Taiwan PASS, free half-day tour for transit passengers, and 'Taiwan Tour Bus' buy-one-get-one-free packages, it's a great time to explore everything Taiwan has to offer — especially our hidden gems in the south. This year, we're especially proud to highlight Taiwan's commitment to sustainability, with eco-conscious destinations like Yehliu Geopark, Sicao Green Tunnel, and the Gaomei Wetlands showcasing the natural beauty and innovation that make Taiwan a green traveler's dream.' High-quality photos from Taiwan's Waves of Wonderland event at Westfield Century City are available here. The celebration doesn't stop here — on June 8th, Taiwan Tourism will continue spreading the waves of wonder with a vibrant float in the LA Pride Parade, proudly supporting diversity, inclusivity, and the LGBTQ+ community. As Taiwan continues to attract adventurers, culture seekers, and nature lovers alike, events like Waves of Wonderland invite North Americans to discover — and fall in love with — the many wonders of Taiwan. ABOUT TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Southwestern US market is managed by the Los Angeles office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is 'Waves of Wonder.' The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. For more information about Taiwan tourism, please visit the official website of the Taiwan Tourism Administration: Follow us on social media in North America: Instagram: @ Facebook: Tour Taiwan - America Media Contact: Alex Trup Marketing Director, Purple Media [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Taiwan Tourism Captivates Los Angeles with its Waves of Wonder Highlight Event
LOS ANGELES, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) brought the vibrant culture of Taiwan to Los Angeles this past weekend with one of its most memorable events of the year — Waves of Wonderland — held at Westfield Century City's iconic Atrium. Just weeks ahead of the first anniversary of TTA's 3.0 brand relaunch, "Taiwan – Waves of Wonder," the event delivered a high-energy, family-friendly experience designed to immerse Angelenos in the beauty, fun, and culture of Taiwan. Transforming the bustling courtyard into a mini fairground, the event featured hands-on activity booths, eye-catching performances, and interactive experiences — all inspired by the essence of Taiwan's rich tourism offerings. With tens of thousands of weekend shoppers passing through Westfield Century City, and even more reached through social media thanks to a flight ticket giveaway courtesy of STARLUX Airlines, the event made a splash not only in LA but across America. From traditional Taiwanese pinball, umbrella painting hosted by Mr. Brown Coffee, to a DIY sand art station and a night market-style pitching game, the booths offered a sensory trip to Taiwan. A major crowd favorite was the #DanceToTaiwan booth hosted by China Airlines, where visitors could groove to the "Dance to the Waves of Wonder" theme song and record their moves as part of TTA's online dance challenge. The #DanceToTaiwan online challenge gives participants a chance to win 1 of 3 round-trip flights to Taiwan from China Airlines. Each ticket will be awarded by one of the dance stars, who recently filmed energetic dances across Taiwan's most iconic landmarks. To enter and learn more, visit Vivian Lin, Director of TTA's Los Angeles office, shared her excitement about the success of the event and the growth of Taiwan tourism: "North America hit record highs last year, and we're incredibly grateful to our airline partners for helping make Taiwan more accessible than ever. With programs like 'Taiwan the Lucky Land' offering foreign visitors the chance to win NT$5,000 (~US$150) just by landing in Taiwan, and exclusive Buy-One-Get-One-Free High Speed Rail tickets, the Taiwan PASS, free half-day tour for transit passengers, and "Taiwan Tour Bus" buy-one-get-one-free packages, it's a great time to explore everything Taiwan has to offer — especially our hidden gems in the south. This year, we're especially proud to highlight Taiwan's commitment to sustainability, with eco-conscious destinations like Yehliu Geopark, Sicao Green Tunnel, and the Gaomei Wetlands showcasing the natural beauty and innovation that make Taiwan a green traveler's dream." High-quality photos from Taiwan's Waves of Wonderland event at Westfield Century City are available here. The celebration doesn't stop here — on June 8th, Taiwan Tourism will continue spreading the waves of wonder with a vibrant float in the LA Pride Parade, proudly supporting diversity, inclusivity, and the LGBTQ+ community. As Taiwan continues to attract adventurers, culture seekers, and nature lovers alike, events like Waves of Wonderland invite North Americans to discover — and fall in love with — the many wonders of Taiwan. ABOUT TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Southwestern US market is managed by the Los Angeles office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is "Waves of Wonder." The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. For more information about Taiwan tourism, please visit the official website of the Taiwan Tourism Administration: Follow us on social media in North America:Instagram: @ Tour Taiwan - America Media Contact:Alex TrupMarketing Director, Purple Mediattala@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration
