Metalworking association to hold government action meeting

The Precision Metalforming Association's (PMA's) Southern California District is ramping up efforts to become politically active in California. The organization is gathering information about other metal-related associations in the state, both independent groups and affiliates of other national associations.

According to a letter from PMA to metalworking executives, the first priority is an effort to make a difference on the California workers' comp issue. The organization is considering launching a "CapWiz" California Web site to help with the grassroots efforts. The California Cast Metals Association already has formed an advocacy group – California Metals Coalition – to tackle some of the state's business issues. PMA feels that all metalworking industry associations "need to put our California memberships in touch with each other."

On April 15 at 5 p.m., the southern California PMA is holding a government action meeting at the Amada Plaza, 7025 Firestone Blvd., Buena Park, Calif. State legislators, congressmen, and their staffs have been invited. Members of other metalworking associations also are invited.

Before the 5 p.m. meeting, key contacts from various metalworking associations will meet at 3:30 p.m. to determine interest in building a coalition. PMA is requesting that contact information for any chapters, affiliates, or other group contacts based in southern California be sent to Patricia Torres, ptorres@domputedtool.com, and copied to Justin Ketchem, jketchem@pma.com.