During a year marked by unusual and challenging circumstances, the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association hosted its 2020 Fall Legislative Conference virtually with sessions hitting a range of hot topics in the food industry.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, speakers covered state and federal legislation impacting
the industry, multiple angles of COVID’s effects on businesses, disability inclusion, loss
prevention, and cyber and data security. The sessions covered how the industry, state,
and nation have responded to changes particularly in the last seven months, what to
expect moving forward, and how to prepare for those expectations.
“This has been a year of incredible disruption, but our members continue to rise to the
challenge and adapt. I’m grateful to our conference speakers for sharing their valuable
insights and what the future might hold,” said Alex Baloga, president and CEO of PFMA.
“This conference is a valuable opportunity to meet with our industry, state, and federal
partners to discuss pressing issues and collaborate moving forward.”
Just one week out from the presidential election, PFMA was grateful to welcome PA
House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff to kick off the conference on Tuesday, and
PA House Democratic Whip Jordan A. Harris who joined conference attendees
Wednesday morning. Both representatives discussed timely issues impacting the
industry, including the state budget, liquor reform, COVID, and more.
Three representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce covered federal updates,
liability, and tax policy Wednesday afternoon
James Emmett of James Emmett & Co. discussed the significance of disability
inclusion, emphasizing that employees with disabilities are extremely loyal to their
companies and more focused on safety compliance. Dawn Roller, director of loss
prevention and POS at Brown’s Super Stores, shared their recent response and safety
recommendations in the midst of looting or rioting. Finally, members of EisnerAmper
provided the latest methods to ensure cyber and data security in the business world.
PFMA appreciates the time and expertise of all conference speakers, and thanks
association sponsors for making the conference possible.
Details on the PFMA spring annual conference will be shared in the coming weeks.
