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 ASSIST
and the Security Profession in Texas
“Providing the Leadership and Vision for Today and Tomorrow” By
Bob Burt, ASSIST President
Greetings ASSIST members.
The new year is upon us and I know all of you are ready to put the economic troubles of 2009 behind us.
2009 was a tough year not only in terms of the economy, but also in terms of what the security profession faced from the legislature. Sweeping changes were made that directly affected us, and the details of those changes are still being worked out. Most notably, “endorsements” now will be on pocket cards indicating what regulated services the registrant may perform. In fact, the registration process was changed and the online registration still needs a lot of work. Criminal history guidelines were changed and we were successful in the passage of HB 3147. We wrapped up 2009 with an outstanding convention in Austin. Central Texas Region President Alan Trevino and his regional members did an outstanding job in making us feel welcome. The venue was exceptional and the continuing education was top notch.
That brings us to 2010. As we start the new year, I would like to remind you to please pay your 2010 membership dues if you have not already done so. Your dues are essential for us to carry on the work we do for you. ASSIST develops and proposes legislation to protect your interests, testifies at legislative hearings and tracks security related bills as they make their way through the legislative process and defends against harmful legislation, all on your behalf. In addition, we form alliances with other trade organizations with similar interests and goals to provide a united front.
ASSIST is also deeply involved in the board rule process of the Private Security Board. We offer comment and provide our expertise as new board rules are developed.
We testify at PSB meetings providing our expertise as security professionals. In addition, we provide support and comment in the license and enforcement divisions of the bureau. Our relationship with the PSB has always been exceptional and it remains that way today.
Your membership also allows you to participate in the Safety Group Program. This program was started in 1993 by ASSIST with El Dorado Insurance and results in substantial discounts in workers compensation insurance premiums. It has been successful beyond our dreams and it is one more benefit or tool that you can use to run your company.
Every member I have talked with agrees our conventions are the best. We have outstanding speakers providing great value continuing education. The venues around the state allow all of us to share and participate in regional attractions and it is always good to see old friends and make new ones.
The ASSIST web site now includes two new sections. The ASSIST board minutes are on the web site for your review. In addition, a month-to-month calendar is provided to keep you up-to-date with regional meetings and other events. If you are in another region during one of their meetings, drop in and enjoy.
All of these things are possible because you are a member. You get critical information you need to run your business that others do not get. That alone is well worth the investment of your dues.
I am looking forward to 2010 because the opportunity is there to accomplish so much. Working together, we can make our profession even better.
Bob Burt
ASSIST State President
(713) 944-6210
president@assisttexas.org
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