LAS VEGAS -- The political landscape is changing this week as voters around the United States cast their votes on Election Day. Expectations run high that republicans will capture a fair share of democratic seats, and health care is a primary reason for this expected shift in the balance of power.

The recently passed health care legislation was the focal point of an executive briefing at the 2010 Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) Business & Education Conference taking place in Las Vegas. The two-part briefing was produced by the University of the Aftermarket, sponsored by Tenneco and supported by Activant Solutions and Wells Vehicle Electronics.

Amanda Austin, director of federal public policy for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), sorted through some key points from the health care legislation. In the end, Austin admitted that the legislation is so vast and complex, business owners large and small will have a hard time. Changes in 1099 filings, for instance, will demand additional information beyond what is currently required.

“It’s going to be a paperwork nightmare for business owners and the IRS,” said Austin, who works directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill. She advised business owners in the meeting to be vigilant in their efforts to educate themselves and their employees about the new laws.

It will be particularly challenging for everyone as they attempt to comply with rules that are not clearcut. Employers may think they are in compliance when they actually are not. And failing to comply will be costly. In a panel discussion at the event, Richard Beirne with United Auto Supply admitted he’s having a hard time with all the legislation.

“I’m having a hard time comprehending hidden costs in this,” Beirne told the audience. “They are going to ask for information we’ve never provided before. Information that we may have no idea how to get.”

AWDA looks forward after successful 2010
The Opening General Session for AWDA highlighted accomplishments as Willie Alexander, chairman of the group’s board of governors passed the torch to incoming chair David Segal of Sanel Auto Parts.

The group handed out several award, giving its highest honor, Leader of the Year, to Rollie Olson of Parts Depot. Humbled by the honor, Olson told the audience it was “one of my proudest moments since I’ve been involved in the aftermarket.”

The AWDA also gave out two Pursuit of Excellence Awards to retired industry veteran and Chairman of the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium David Caracci and Brian Cruickshank of the University of the Aftermarket.

The 2010 Art Fisher Memorial Scholarship was awarded to the late John Castle, a long-time industry advocate and Northwood University professor who passed away last summer.

See all the AWDA honorees in our community.