As another year comes to a close, we look back on a year of successes for our Association and our membership. The transfer of the Household Goods Movers regulatory program from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) Bureau of Electronic Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation (BEARHFTI) (FYI – their name changes January 2019) has been about as successful a transition as any of us could have imagined. Without CMSA’s proactive and continuous engagement, the transfer could have been very different and much more challenging for permitted movers. Our scholarship program, started in 1994 with four $1000 awards, has grown to include vocational awards and this year passed the one-million-dollar mark. The success and vitality of our chapters, committees and board results in our association being respected throughout the industry.

We have been working with the DCA on many issues and expect the MAX4 annual (negotiated CPI formula based) adjustments by the end of January 2019. One change from the old CPUC methodology is that the amended pages will not be mailed to carriers but posted on the BEARHFTI website. Of course, CMSA will keep members informed as information and updates become available.

Unfortunately, just like 2017 this year ended with some of the worst fires our state has ever seen. CMSA members have stepped up in a big way, as they always do, giving not only their dollars but also their time and professional skills, to support efforts to provide aid to people in need. I am always proud to be part of an Association whose members have always been there with an outstretched hand to help. In regard to the recent disasters, we have seen individual members organize and provide trucking of much needed supplies to groups in communities ravished by deadly wildfires. The Association has coordinated with the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) and six CMSA member companies have committed to providing logistic services at needed times during the recovery. Thank you to all who have volunteered either individually or as part of our call for help.

Included with this issue are registration materials for the 2019 CMSA 101st Annual Convention in beautiful San Diego. I would encourage you to take a few minutes and complete your registration today. We are going to have a program not to be missed and as always, those in attendance will have a terrific time.

The team at CMSA (Renee, Gale and Debbie) join my family and I in wishing you a Happy Holiday Season and health and happiness in 2019!

December 2018 - CMSA Communicator