2012 ANNUAL REPORT M ISSION
The New England Council is an alliance of businesses, academic
and health institutions, and public and private organizations
throughout New England formed to promote economic growth
and a high quality of life in the New England region.
The New England Council is a leading voice on the issues that shape
the region’s economy and quality of life. The Council focuses on
key industries that drive the region’s economic growth including
education, energy, transportation, technology and innovation,
healthcare and financial services. THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2012
4 President’s Letter 5 Chairman’s Letter
ADVOCACY & INITIATIVES 6 Overview 6 Defense
8 Energy & Environment
10 Financial Services 12 Healthcare 13 Higher Education 15 New England Economic Partnership 16 Smart Infrastructure Report 17 Technology 19 Transportation
EVENTS
20 Annual Dinner 22 Annual Spring Event 24 Congressional Roundtable Series 26 Featured Events 27 Governors’ Forums 28 Politics & Eggs Series
ABOUT THE COUNCIL 29 DC Dialogue 30 Board of Directors 34 New Members
3 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 PRESIDENT’S LETTER
DEAR NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL MEMBER:
As I look back at 2012, I am once again truly astounded at how much The New England Council has accomplished during the past year. Over the course of my 16 years at the helm of The New England Council, it has been remarkable to watch the organization evolve and grow as each year passes. When people ask me how we continue to thrive—particularly during the challenging economic situation in recent years—I tell them that it is because of our members. It is because of your engagement and ongoing support that The New England Council continues to be one of the nation’s premier business organizations.
I am thrilled to once again report that the past year has been an incredibly successful one for the Council; in fact, 2012 was easily one of our busiest years, with over 40 events held throughout the year. We have hosted Congressional Roundtables with members of both the House and Senate in all six New England states. As the presidential election played out over the course of the year, James T. Brett we’ve been fortunate to welcome several national political figures, including key campaign surrogates, at our popular Politics & Eggs series, co-sponsored by our friends at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics. Throughout the year, we have also had the opportunity to hold events featuring other key federal policymakers, including several senior Obama Administration officials.
Our two signature annual events—the Spring Event in Washington, DC, and the Annual Dinner—were once again both tremendous successes. The Annual Spring Event was attended by well over 200 Council members, making it one of the largest to date. We had the opportunity to hear from several senior federal officials, including White House Chief of Staff Jack Lew and Administrator Karen Mills of the U.S. Small Business Administration, and hosted many members of the Congressional delegation at our Capitol Hill Reception. At the Annual Dinner in October, nearly 1400 New England Council members and friends gathered to honor our inspiring New Englanders of the Year: U.S. Representative John Larson; Fidelity Financial Services President Abigail Johnson; esteemed historian David McCullough; and our dear friend Bob Sheridan, the recently retired CEO of Savings Bank Life Insurance and a long-time NEC Board Member.
Amidst all of this, membership continued to grow at an impressive rate. We were delighted to welcome more than 50 new members in 2012, bringing our total membership to over 400 businesses and organizations. Our members continue to be actively engaged in our policy committees as the Council advocated for a variety of policies that impact the economic well-being of our region throughout the year. From the ongoing implementation of historic healthcare and financial sector reforms, to initiatives to create new jobs and close the “skills gap,” to ongoing efforts to address the nation’s fiscal challenges, The New England Council has been the region’s voice in Washington, working to shape policy that will promote economic development and foster job creation.
This report offers a mere snapshot of The New England Council’s activities and work throughout 2012. I am proud to share it with you, and thank you again for your support.
Sincerely,
James T. Brett President & CEO Jim Brett with White House Chief of Staff Jack Lew in 4 Washington, DC. THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
CHAIRMAN’S LETTER 2012
DEAR NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL MEMBER:
During a year marked by continued political and economic uncertainty, the voice of the New England Council – advocating for the policies necessary to achieve sustained economic growth – was more critical than ever.
The year 2012 was one of growth for the New England Council. We increased our membership, with more businesses joining our organization than ever before. We also held a record number of events, from our Annual Dinner to a series of Congressional Roundtables, all of which provided important support to the business community as well as insight and thought leadership on the issues that matter most to our economy.
When respected and influential leaders in government and politics want to reach business leaders in this region, they come to the New England Council. We heard from a number of top federal officials and several key advisors to President Obama. We have the ability to bring new ideas and © W. Marc Bernsau/Boston Marc Journal Business W. © help create solutions, and by working with our elected leaders, we can continue to foster economic John Hailer growth in New England and across the country.
In a year of many challenges, we also received a reminder of just how important strong communities are in the wake of a national tragedy in Connecticut. We know that it is by working together with community leaders, businesses, institutions and citizens that we receive our strength and accomplish our goals. And we are fortunate to have so many great examples of leadership from which to draw as we tackle 2013.
This year we want to continue to focus our efforts on creating an environment that supports long-term sustainable growth, new jobs with secure futures, and a high quality of life for our families. We’re also excited by the national conversation on immigration reform, which we believe is an important ingredient to the long-term sustainability of our economy. A sensible set of policies that provide better access for U.S. companies to the global workforce is something we all want to achieve. The New England Council looks forward to the debate which lies ahead and to representing the interests of our members.
Thank you for making 2012 such a productive year, and for being such strong partners in pursuing our collective agenda. We are always at our best when working for you means working with you.
Sincerely,
John Hailer Chairman
John Hailer with Pulitzer Prize winning author David McCullough and Jim Brett. 5 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 Advocacy & Initiatives
OVERVIEW DEFENSE
New England continued to experience slow but steady Early in 2012, as some leaders in Washington raised the economic recovery in 2012. While the unemployment possibility of military base realignment and closure rate declined over the year, many employers were still proceedings as a defense cost-saving measure, The New hesitant to hire. Businesses large and small remain England Council took steps to begin to organize our uncertain about the future and have gotten little members to support our region’s military installations. reassurance from leaders in Washington. The Council played a significant role in advocating for the region’s bases during the last round of closure Despite a growing list of critical issues in need of Congress’ proceedings in 2005. While it soon became clear that attention, the nation’s fiscal challenges dominated the debate there would not be any base closure proceedings in the on Capitol Hill in 2012. The fierce partisanship that has next year, the Budget Control Act and the Super plagued Washington in recent years continued to hinder compromise on many issues. At the same time, November’s Committee’s failure to reach an agreement—triggering Congressional and Presidential elections played a significant possible sequestration cuts in 2013—spurred significant role in shaping the agenda for both parties in 2012. concern within the defense sector. The defense sector in Through it all, The New England Council continued to New England includes a wide range of businesses, from work closely with its members across various sectors to large Department of Defense contractors to the small, identify issues that affect the region and to advocate for precision manufacturers who make up their supply policies that will support economic growth and job creation chains. Combined, these companies and organizations throughout New England. In addition to advocacy efforts, the Council also offered members a variety of opportunities employ thousands and pour millions of dollars into the to educate themselves on the issues and stay abreast of region’s economy. the latest updates, from small group discussions with Congressional staffers, to Council-wide forums with key To best address concerns about both base closures and the federal policymakers. region’s defense sector, The New England Council in 2012 launched a Defense Working Group comprised of Council members with an interest in one or both of these issues. Chaired by Board Member Kevin Conroy of Foley Hoag, the group serves as a forum for information sharing and as a vehicle for members to work collaboratively in support of the region’s military bases and defense sector.
Regional Coalition Building Recognizing that safeguarding the region’s military bases and defense sector was likely a priority to a variety of other business groups throughout the region, The New England Council conducted outreach over the course of 2012 to build a coalition of regional business leaders in support of defense interests in the region. The Council convened meetings in Boston and Hartford, inviting the leaders of chambers of commerce and other regional and state-wide Board Member Lauren Rowley of CVS Caremark with Sen. Jack Reed.
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business associations to discuss ways in which the various like-minded organizations can collaborate to support defense activities in the region. As cuts are implemented in the coming months and years, the coalition stands ready to share resources and speak with one united voice on behalf of the region’s business community.
Support for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program The looming threat of sequestration threatened a variety of Department of Defense programs in 2012. One major project, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program, has a significant impact not only on our national defense, but also on the New England economy. The F-35 progam directly and indirectly supports more than 133,000 U.S. jobs, pumping more than Mike McBride of BAE Systems with Senate Armed Services Committee Member Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). $17 billion into the national economy and supporting 1,350 suppliers nationwide. New England is home to 269 suppliers to the F-35 program, pouring nearly $1.5 billion into our Massachusetts Military Asset and Security region’s economy and employing over 18,000 people. Strategy Task Force In November 2012, The New England Council sent letters In February 2012, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts launched outlining this significant economic impact to all members the Massachusetts Military Asset and Security Strategy Task Force. of the New England Congressional delegation. The letters The Task Force, chaired by Lt. Governor Tim Murray, is an provided the Members of Congress with data specific to the initiative to support military installations in Massachusetts in states they represent, and urged them to support the program order to both protect them and explore opportunities to bring in as defense cuts are considered. new missions. This Task Force coordinates efforts among state and Capitol Hill Defense Spending Forum quasi-public agencies and complements the work of the federal delegation. It also engages with industry, nonprofit, municipal In December 2012, the NEC’s Defense Working Group officials, elected officials, and community members surrounding hosted a Capitol Hill Discussion of Federal Defense Spending each installation in order to enhance and expand missions, in Washington, DC. The event featured remarks from two programs, facilities, and operations on or affecting the state’s members of the House Armed Services Committee: Rep. military bases. The Task Force includes a Subcommittee on Niki Tsongas (D-MA) and Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC). Business, Industry and Military Alignment, which Lt. Governor Murray asked The New England Council to co-chair with the Following the Representatives’ remarks, Defense Working Defense Technology Initiative. As co-chairs of the subcommittee, Group Chair and NEC Board Member Kevin Conroy the NEC and DTI are charged with engaging the business and moderated a panel discussion featuring Congressional staffers industry community on efforts to protect the state’s military bases. for members of the New England delegation who specialize in defense issues. The well-attended event, hosted by NEC member Nelson Mullins, was an excellent opportunity for NEC members in the defense sector to get the latest updates from those on the front lines of fighting for defense spending on Capitol Hill.
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ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Energy costs and access to energy resources have always been critical issues for New England businesses and residents alike. The New England Council’s membership includes a wide range of businesses and organizations in the energy and environment sector including energy generators and distributors, developers of renewable and alternative energy sources, and energy and environmental technology firms. The Council’s Energy & Environment Committee, co-chaired by Mark Kalpin of WilmerHale and Dan Weekley of Dominion Resources, carefully monitors federal energy policy and regulation and its House Energy & Natural Resources Committee Member Rep. Ed Markey (D-MA) and Board Member Chris Vincze of TRC Companies, Inc. impact on the economy in New England. In 2012, the committee weighed in on several issues of importance to FERC Chairman Wellinghoff the region, and held a series of events featuring national In January, the Energy & Environment Committee hosted leaders on energy and environmental issues. a meeting in Washington, DC, featuring remarks from Jon Wellinghoff, Chairman of Federal Energy Regulatory Report on Electric Power Industry Commission (FERC). Chairman Wellinghoff’s comments focused on new environmental regulations, energy reliability, In January 2012, The New England Council’s Energy & transmission planning, cost allocation, natural gas pipeline Environment Committee released a report on New England’s tariffs, and federal transmission project siting authority. electric power market. The new report follows up on a 2001 The Chairman called for greater regional coordination in report released by the Council on energy supply and demand transmission planning, increased interregional coordination in in New England. The report, “State & Federal Rate Regulation transmission, and the increased reliability of natural gas-fired of the Electric Power Industry: A History,” focuses specifically generation in the New England market. The meeting was hosted on the electric market and seeks to provide a more basic by NEC member WilmerHale in their Washington office. introduction to understanding the market. The Council’s objective in preparing the report was to provide the reader Nuclear Waste Recommendations with basic information on the methods by which electricity is The New England Council has long advocated for the creation generated, transmitted and ultimately distributed to the retail of a federal depository for spent nuclear fuel, and in the past consumer; how the rates are determined for both wholesale has supported plans to develop such a depository at the Yucca and retail electricity sales; the philosophy behind the legislative Mountain site in Nevada. Plans for Yucca Mountain were put enactments and regulatory processes that lead to our current on hold by the Obama Administration several years ago, at which system; and the division between state and federal regulation time the President established a Blue Ribbon Commission on of the electric power industry. The goal of this report is to America’s Nuclear Future charged with reviewing federal policy provide the reader—particularly one lacking a background on spent nuclear fuel management and disposal and making in or pre-existing understanding of the industry—with a basic recommendations for a new plan to address these issues. understanding of the industry from its inception through the After a two-year review process that involved public hearings end of the 20th century, including a basic description of its and the collection of comments from stakeholders across regulatory history. Copies were provided to New England the country—including The New England Council—the Council members and members of the New England Commission submitted a report to the U.S. Secretary of Congressional delegation, and the report is also available Energy in January 2012, offering eight recommendations to the public on the Council’s website. to develop a new strategy to manage nuclear waste. Shortly
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thereafter, the Council wrote to U.S. Secretary of Energy House in Boston. During an interactive roundtable session, Steven Chu endorsing several of those recommendations Mr. Spalding spoke about environmental justice and urban and urging the Department of Energy to implement them. revitalization, highlighting the revitalization of Bridgeport, In particular, the Council suggested that DOE should create CT, and Holyoke, MA. He stressed the importance of a new organization to implement the federal government’s integrating environment and energy policy by promoting waste management program, allow access to utility waste green energy and making a commitment to sustainability. He disposal fees for their intended purpose, and make efforts noted that he enjoys great collaboration with all six of New to develop one or more consolidated storage facilities. The England’s state environmental commissioners. Mr. Spalding Council believes that the adoption of these recommendations discussed the EPA’s Clean Air Act regulation and noted that will help solve the challenge of how to store spent fuel from the New England region is far ahead of the rest of the country nuclear energy facilities. in reducing air pollution. Administrator Spalding also took a variety of questions and heard constructive feedback from Meeting with Senator Shaheen committee members. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) met with members of the Energy & Environment Committee as part of the NEC’s Smart Infrastructure Report Annual Spring Event in Washington, DC. Senator Shaheen, The Energy & Environment Committee met in November to who then served on the Senate Committee on Energy and review the energy-related suggestions in “Smart Infrastructure in Natural Resources, provided Committee members with an New England: An Investment for Growth and Prosperity,” a report update on her energy efficiency bill. She also discussed initiatives released by the NEC and Deloitte in October 2012. Committee to encourage greater access to natural gas in New England, and members assessed the report’s recommendations for mitigating the Blue Ribbon Commission’s recommendations to the DOE the high-cost of energy in New England with an eye towards concerning the transportation of spent fuel from the shutdown identifying action items that the Council should include in any reactor sites in New England to consolidated interim storage. final recommendations. After a comprehensive discussion, the Committee members agreed that it would be productive to hold Meeting With Representative Ed Markey a follow-up meeting with the report’s authors from Deloitte to In April, Representative Ed Markey (D-MA) spoke to New discuss their recommendations and research methodology. England Council Members at a Congressional Roundtable in Boston. Following his remarks, Representative Markey took The Committee members also agreed that the Committee should time to meet separately with the Energy & Environment draft its own internal report, as it has done in the past. The Committee to discuss federal energy policy. Representative meeting closed with agreement among the members that the Markey, the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee has been presented with a unique opportunity to act, Committee, spoke about his involvement with several key with several of the State Energy Secretaries expressing their interest federal energy issues. Representative Markey discussed his in the report and the Committee’s specific follow-up proposals. concerns about the proposed Keystone Pipeline project, the In early December, the committee met with Mike Reopel potential for job growth through investment in wind and of Deloitte, the lead author of the report and an NEC Board solar energy, and his support for deploying the U.S. strategic Member, to further discuss the energy-related recommendations petroleum reserve. The Congressman also addressed a variety of contained in the Smart Infrastructure report. Mr. Reopel questions raised by committee members. The meeting provided explained that he and his team at Deloitte envisioned the an excellent forum for Council members in the energy sector to report as containing initial “discussion points” meant to generate have a more in-depth conversation with the Congressman on further research and refinement as opposed to concrete final issues of critical importance to their businesses. recommendations. Committee members offered their comments, and will assist Mr. Reopel and his team as they work on an Briefing with EPA Regional Administrator updated version of the report in 2013. In October, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 1 Administrator Curt Spalding met with The New England Council’s Energy & Environment Committee at the Hampshire
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
New England continues to be a center for the global financial services industry, and the sector is integral to the region’s economic wellbeing. The region is home to some of the largest banking institutions and top financial services firms in the nation—many of which are active New England Council members. The New England Council’s Financial Services Committee, co-chaired by Jim Febeo of Fidelity Investments and Paul Giordano of Ironshore, Inc., includes a wide range of companies and organizations in the financial services sectors, including large investment banks, community banks, investment House Financial Services Committee Member Rep. Stephen Lynch firms, insurance companies, and accounting firms. (D-MA) and Tracey Flaherty of Natixis Global Asset Management. Throughout 2012, the committee continued to monitor the ongoing implementation of the Dodd-Frank Wall Later, in June 2012, the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, while also Affairs Committee held a hearing on the proposed reforms. In actively advocating for tax and fiscal policies that will testimony, SEC Chair Schapiro emphasized her interest in the benefit the region. Floating NAV as a reform alternative for money market funds. Continuing its advocacy on this issue, the Council worked Money Market Reforms with Senator Jack Reed’s office to submit a letter outlining the NEC’s concerns as part of the record of this hearing. Money market funds have long served as a cost-effective means for a variety of investors to achieve market rates of return, In August, Schapiro announced that the SEC would not move while promoting stability of principal and liquidity of their forward with the Floating NAV proposal, marking a significant investment. They are highly regulated and serve as a crucial victory for the Council. However, Treasury Secretary Tim source of short-term financing, especially in the recovering Geithner later suggested the issue will remain a priority and U.S. economy. at year-end, and prospects for the reform measure remain unclear. The Council will continue to voice its concerns and In recent years, federal regulators have proposed that money advocate for maintaining the current system for the valuation market funds shift from the standard $1 per share valuation to of money market funds. a floating Net Asset Value (NAV). This proposal was designed to help shareholders better understand the risk of investing, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Briefing however, members of the Council’s Financial Services Committee have concerns that, while well-intentioned, the floating NAV As part of The New England Council’s Annual Spring Event proposal would have serious unintended consequences. in Washington, DC, in March 2012, members of the Financial Services Committee had the opportunity to participate in a In a January 2012 letter to then-SEC Chairman Mary L. small group meeting with Steve Antonakes, Associate Director Schapiro, the Council outlined its concerns. In particular, the for Supervision, Enforcement, and Fair Lending at the letter noted that states and municipalities in our region could newly-created Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). face a contraction of available financing during an already Antonakes also previously served as the Commissioner of Banks challenging fiscal climate. The letter outlined the consequences in Massachusetts. During the meeting, Antonakes briefed of a move to a floating NAV, including administrative costs for members on the ongoing implementation of the Dodd-Frank money market funds, administrative burden for shareholders, Act, particularly as it relates to larger lending institutions, and and a reduction in available funds for such expenses as answered their questions about the newly-created federal agency corporate operating needs, infrastructure projects, and other and its approach to enforcement. municipal cash needs. 10 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
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Retirement Savings The four tax provisions that the Council suggested addressing are: As Congress continued to work toward reducing the federal deficit in 2012, some leaders in Washington suggested 1. E xtending the Research & Development Tax Credit, eliminating tax incentives for certain individual retirement which allows businesses to recover a portion of the savings accounts, such as 401(k)s, Individual Retirement financial investments they have made to create new Accounts (IRAs) and other private retirement plans. The or better products. This type of investment fosters New England Council’s Financial Services Committee, along high-salaried and high-skilled employment in New with other regional leaders in the financial services industry, England and the NEC has long supported making have concerns about the potentially devastating long-term this tax credit permanent. consequences of such a measure. The Council advocated against 2. E xtending the Active Financing Exception, which this proposal on several occasions in 2011, and continued that ensures that American companies earning certain types advocacy in 2012. In December 2012, the Council wrote to of banking or finance income in other countries are not members of the New England Congressional delegation to urge subject to U.S. tax until the funds are repatriated to the them to support a Concurrent Resolution filed by Senators United States. This ensures that these companies can Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) compete globally and grow jobs domestically. affirming that existing tax incentives for retirement savings 3. E xtending two Bonus Appreciation Allowance tax provide important benefits in planning for a financially secure provisions that allow businesses to rapidly write off retirement. The resolution mirrors a resolution filed in the investments in equipment and other capital expenditures, House in late 2011 by Representatives Richard Neal (D-MA) thereby encouraging businesses to invest capital and and Jim Gerlach (R-PA), which the NEC also supported. expand operations. The Council’s letter outlined the long-term benefits of 4. M aintaining favorable Capital Gains and Dividend Tax encouraging Americans to save for retirement by deferring rates that encourage investment in companies large and taxation on retirement savings until the funds are withdrawn small, leading to increased overall confidence, job creation, years later. The Council stressed that the current tax deferral for and eventual economic growth. savings not only promotes individual financial self-sufficiency, but also reduces the long-term burden on our already strained All four of these tax provisions were addressed in the eventual government resources such as Social Security and Medicare. deal reached by Congress to avert the fiscal cliff. The Council also voiced concerns that if there is less incentive to invest in retirement savings accounts, there would be a Briefing by U.S. Comptroller of the Currency significant impact on the financial services industry, which Tom Curry plays a large role in the New England economy. In December 2012, the Financial Services Committee sponsored a luncheon for all New England Council members Fiscal Cliff Tax Advocacy featuring remarks from the U.S. Comptroller of the Currency As Congress worked during the “lame duck” session at Thomas Curry. A New England native, Comptroller Curry the end of 2012 to address the so-called “fiscal cliff,” The is charged with ensuring a safe and sound national banking New England Council urged members of the New England system for all Americans. At the luncheon hosted by Bank of delegation to consider several key tax provisions that would America in downtown Boston, Comptroller Curry provided support economic growth. In letters to members of the an overview of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency delegation in early December, the Council outlined four (OCC), as well as the OCC’s approach to bank regulation and tax provisions that it believes will promote business growth the agency’s priorities. The luncheon provided an excellent and job creation. forum for many of the NEC’s members in the banking industry to gain insight into this key regulatory agency.
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HEALTHCARE
New England is home to some of the world’s top teaching Meeting with Senior HHS Official hospitals and medical schools, local community hospitals In addition to several other committee meetings over the and health centers, local and national insurance providers, course of the year, Healthcare Committee members gathered and cutting edge pharmaceutical and medical device for a special meeting in September at The Boston Home in Dorchester. The Boston Home is a not-for-profit specialized companies. With such a large and diverse healthcare care residence for 96 adults with advanced Multiple Sclerosis industry, this sector is a significant economic driver in New and other neurological diseases. The organization joined England. In 2012, the Council’s Healthcare Committee, The New England Council in 2012. co-chaired by Laurel Sweeney of Philips Healthcare and The Boston Home invited fellow Healthcare Committee Frank MacDougall of Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical members to attend their 2012 Open House to hear from Center, continued to focus significantly on ongoing Henry Claypool, a senior official at the U.S. Department implementation of the Affordable Care Act, as well looming of Health and Human Services (HHS). Mr. Claypool serves federal spending cuts that could have a devastating impact as Principal Deputy Administrator of the Administration for Community Living, as well as a member of the HHS on the healthcare sector. Secretary’s senior staff as Senior Advisor to the Secretary for Disability Policy. Mr. Claypool discussed the Administration’s Healthcare Reform goal of supporting the needs of both the aging and disability The ongoing implementation of the Affordable Care Act populations, reducing the fragmentation within programs that (ACA) continued to be a key issue of concern for the healthcare address the community living service and enhancing access to sector in New England in 2012. To assist members in preparing quality healthcare and long-term services and support for all for the implementation of the law, and to aid them in under- individuals. The meeting provided NEC members an excellent standing its new rules and regulations, the Council provided opportunity to learn more about the Obama Administration’s guidance and updates for members in 2012. While some of work to support individuals with disabilities in our region and these materials were targeted specifically to members in the across the country. healthcare sector, including both providers and insurers, others were made available to all Council members as the new law Fiscal Cliff Advocacy applies to employers large and small across the country. Topics In late 2012, as the so-called “fiscal cliff” approached and covered in these various updates included Employers’ Shared Congressional leaders worked to negotiate a plan to address Responsibility, Medicare Payment Regulations, Coverage the impending tax increases and spending cuts, The New Waiting Periods, and a variety of other related topics. England Council called on Congress to prevent devastating sequestration cuts to programs that fuel New England’s The most significant development regarding the ACA in healthcare economy. In a letter sent to members of the New 2012 was the U.S. Supreme Court’s June ruling in National England Congressional delegation in December, the Council Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) v. Kathleen stressed that it is because of New England’s prominence as Sebelius, a challenge to the new law. Upon the Court’s a leader in healthcare and the life sciences that the region decision to uphold the law, Council staff provided a series is acutely and disproportionately impacted by legislative of information updates to members regarding the impact of and regulatory initiatives that affect these industries. The the Court’s ruling, including its impact on various sectors letter outlines the importance of the healthcare industry to of the healthcare industry. In November 2012, the Council New England and urges caution when it comes to potential also provided all members with a guide to Employer-Related cuts to healthcare and research programs. In particular, the Affordable Care Act Provisions for 2013 so that they could Council called on lawmakers to preserve funding for the best prepare for the year ahead. National Institutes of Health (NIH), avoid cuts in payments to hospitals, avoid cuts in payments to doctors under the Medicare Advantage program, protect residency programs at teaching hospitals and replace the expiring “doc fix” to avoid cuts in Medicare payments. 12 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
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HIGHER EDUCATION
As home to hundreds of institutions of higher learning, Department of Education Briefing the higher education sector is a vital part of the New In February 2012, Kay Gilcher, head of the Department of England economy, employing thousands and ensuring Education’s Accreditation Group, participated in a Higher that the region continues to have a highly skilled Education Committee meeting to brief members on the workforce. Co-chaired by Dean College President Paula reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. Ms. Gilcher worked with the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Rooney and EMC’s Chris Goode, The New England Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) to develop recommendations Council’s Higher Education Committee includes for the reauthorization. NACIQI was charged with examining representatives from colleges, universities, and education- the relationship between states, the federal government, and related non-profits throughout the six New England accrediting agencies and Ms. Gilcher noted that the federal states. Throughout 2012, the committee provided forums government prefers to leave the determination of institutional quality largely up to the states. She discussed how this approach for members to hear from key policymakers on education is creating challenges as institutions expand distance education and workforce development policy, as well as to work and technology-assisted learning across state lines. She also more closely with employers in the region to ensure that discussed the difficulty of assessing student achievement when there is a pipeline of skilled workers to fill important students are increasingly deviating from the “traditional student” positions in our region’s economy. path as they complete their education. Assessment of institutions has gained significance as the Administration pursues initiatives that tie campus-based aid to several metrics, including cost- containment and student outcomes.
Capitol Hill Meetings As part of The New England Council’s Annual Spring Event in Washington, DC, in March, Higher Education Committee members had the opportunity to meet with education staffers in the offices of Senator Scott Brown (R-MA), as well as with Representative Richard Neal (D-MA). Given increased enrollment in colleges and universities during the economic recession, the conversations focused on college access and affordability. Participants also discussed budgeted proposals and the funding that would be allocated for Pell Grants, the Perkins Loan program, and formula grant programs including TRIO and GEAR UP. Staffers and NEC members discussed ways that Congress could ensure that increased scrutiny of Board Member Dr. James Birge, President of Franklin Pierce University, and college cost does not unfairly penalize colleges. The meetings Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH). also covered the Race to the Top: College Affordability and Completion competitive grant program, in which states compete for grant funding by submitting plans to contain tuition costs and increase completion rates. These meetings provided Council members an excellent opportunity to get updates from staffers on the front lines of federal education policy and to voice their concerns to key members of the New England delegation.
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HIGHER EDUCATION continued from page 13
Briefings with Representative John Tierney Pathways to Prosperity Briefing Representative John Tierney (D-MA), the lone New At a November 2012 meeting, the Higher Education Englander serving on the House Education and the Workforce Committee heard from Dr. Robert Schwartz, Francis Keppel Committee during the 112th Congress, met with the Higher Professor of Practice in Educational Policy and Administration Education Committee on two occasions in 2012. In June, at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. Dr. Schwartz is Representative Tierney met with the committee to discuss his a co-author of the ground-breaking 2011 report, Pathways to efforts to avert increases in student loan interest rates. He also Prosperity: Meeting the Challenge of Preparing Young Americans discussed the enormous debt load that today’s students carry for the 21st Century. The report calls for the establishment upon graduation and voiced his support for the Consumer of a national “Pathways to Prosperity Network,” to bridge Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) efforts to create standards employers, educators and policymakers across city, county and for loan counseling. state lines. The report challenged thinking around the globe about traditional education approaches and the emerging Following his appearance at a Congressional Roundtable event needs of tomorrow’s workforce. The report’s recommendations in September, the Congressman again met with the Higher lay the groundwork for the Council’s Higher Education Education Committee, inviting feedback on a range of Committee to focus its efforts in 2013 on addressing the education issues from financial aid to the need for work skills gap by building partnerships between New England’s experience on the part of students entering the workforce. employers and the higher education community. Rep. Tierney expressed concern about the federal financial aid programs at risk in the current budgetary environment. He also discussed the need to prepare students for success in the workplace and heard from NEC members about the need for more employer participation in internship and cooperative education training.
Beth Bower of Salem State University and Rep. Niki Tsongas (D-MA). Marian Court College President Denise Hammon chats with House Education Committee member Rep. John Tierney (D-MA).
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NEW ENGLAND ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
In 2012, The New England Council became the exclusive As the exclusive sponsor of the twice-yearly conference, The sponsor of the New England Economic Partnership’s New England Council has access to NEEP’s experts in our own advocacy efforts and is able to share NEEP’s summary (NEEP) bi-annual economic outlook conferences. NEEP forecasts with our members. In addition, NEC members is a highly ressected organization dedicated to providing receive a discount on registration for the NEEP economic objective economic analyses and forecasts that can be used outlook conferences. as tools to make informed, insightful business and policy decisions. Twice a year, NEEP publishes macroeconomic NEEP’s Spring Economic Outlook Conference was held in May 2012 at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. The topic of forecasts for the New England region and its six the conference was “Skills & People Matching: Where are the individual states. Jobs?” Following a presentation on the U.S. economic outlook by Scott Hoyt, Senior Director of Consumer Economics at Moody’s Analytics, the NEEP forecast managers presented the regional economic outlook, as well as forecasts for each of the six New England states. Dr. Robert Schwartz of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, a co-author of the acclaimed Pathways to Prosperity report, offered keynote remarks. The day concluded with a panel discussion focused on how the region can best address the skills gap.
Following the spring conference, Council President & CEO Jim Brett partnered with several of the NEEP economists to pen op-ed pieces highlighting the forecast data and urging action to address the skills gap. These pieces appeared in The Hartford Business Journal, The MetroWest Daily News, The New Hampshire Union Leader, The Patriot Ledger, and The Worcester Business Journal.
The Fall Economic Outlook Conference was hosted by Bryant University in Smithfield, RI, in December 2012. The fall conference focused on the Post-Election Economic Outlook, and kicked off with a look at the U.S. Economic Outlook presented by Dr. Edward Friedman, Director at Moody’s Analytics. The NEEP forecast managers then presented the regional economic outlook, as well as forecasts for each of the six New England states. The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring several of the NEEP forecast managers, as well as editors from several of the region’s top newspapers.
Liz Chace Marino of Stop & Shop Supermarkets with Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) Following the fall conference, Council President & CEO Jim in Washington, DC. Brett again teamed with several of the NEEP economists to author op-ed pieces to be published in early 2013 highlighting the forecast data presented at the conference.
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SMART INFRASTRUCTURE REPORT
Throughout 2012, The New England Council Smart Infrastructure in New England suggests that in order collaborated with Council member Deloitte on a new to build a 21st century infrastructure that can enable economic growth and prosperity, public and private stakeholders must report that examines infrastructure in New England. work together to take several key steps: In October 2012, the Council was pleased to release Smart Infrastructure in New England: An Investment 1. E xploit the region’s structural advantages to achieve a responsive supply chain, operating at lower cost with less for Growth and Prosperity. The report, written by congestion, by taking advantage of lower cost “home- NEC Board Member Mike Reopel and his team at shoring” sub-regions in support of dominant industries. Deloitte, assesses the region’s infrastructure strengths and 2. Connect its regional networks and industry clusters to weaknesses, and identifies opportunities for investment in leverage their inherent economies with the appropriate “smart infrastructure” that can support economic growth infrastructure technology and management. and global competitiveness. The goal of the report is to 3. D evelop workforce skills in a “learnings with earnings” serve as a starting point for a broader discussion among collaboration, following a new apprenticeship model that public and private sector stakeholders about how we can can bring together the interests of business, education, invest in smart infrastructure in a way that promotes and government. economic growth in New England. 4. F inance strategic opportunities creatively using a range of innovative options to match affordability with productivity and speed to market.
The report was released on October 23, 2012, at a well-attended event hosted by Bank of America in Boston. Following a presentation on the report by Mr. Reopel, a panel of industry representatives discussed the report and offered their thoughts on its recommendations.
Following the report’s release, Council President & CEO Jim Brett authored an op-ed piece outlining the report’s recommendations. The piece appeared in a variety of publications throughout the region, including The Boston Business Journal, The Day (New London, CT), The Fall River Herald News, The Lowell Sun, The New Hampshire Union Leader, and The Providence Journal.
Rep. Michael Capuano (D-MA) and Tim Leshan of Northeastern University in Washington, DC.
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Advocacy & Initiatives 2012
TECHNOLOGY
New England is home to some of the world’s leading Data Breach Advocacy technology companies and is the birthplace of innovations As Congress considered several cyber security proposals in 2012, that have changed the way that we do business around the the Council wrote to members of the New England delegation world. Technology represents a multi-billion dollar global urging them to adopt a federal data security breach provision that would preempt the current patchwork of state laws. This issue industry that is integral to our economy and that employs impacts a wide range of businesses throughout New England that thousands of New Englanders. New England Council handle various types of sensitive information. In its May 2012 members in the technology sector include software letter, the Council noted that businesses must currently comply developers, internet companies, telecommunications with different data breach security laws in nearly every state. firms, and biomedical manufacturers. The Council’s The Council stressed that a federal breach of data security statute would protect consumers while streamlining the process to make Technology Committee, chaired by Annmarie Levins of it more efficient for businesses. Microsoft, supports policies that encourage technological advancement, provide funding for innovation and In late July, when the Senate began debating a last minute compromise cyber security bill prior to the August recess, the research, and develop a skilled workforce to fill critical NEC reached out to the New England Senate delegation and positions in the technology sector. key staffers to reiterate the Council’s position and encourage inclusion of a data breach provision. While the Senate failed to advance this particular bill to a final vote, an amendment was drafted during negotiations to address the data breach issue. The Council will continue to advocate for the inclusion of this provision in any future cyber security legislation.
Cyber Security Panel Discussion At the conclusion of the Annual Spring Event in Washington, DC, the NEC, in partnership with the New England Advanced Cyber Security Center, held a briefing on Capital Hill bringing together a range of business perspectives on cyber security. The panelists discussed current and emerging threats, research priorities, educational initiatives, and pending legislation in the House and Senate.
The panel was moderated by Michele Whitham of Foley Hoag and included the following panelists: • Shannon Kellogg, Government Affairs and Public Policy, EMC • D r. David Luzzi, Executive Director of Northeastern University’s Strategic Security Initiative Board Member David Goggin of Amgen and Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) at the Annual Capitol Hill Reception. • T om Quinn, Chief Information Security Officer, State Street Bank • C arlos Solari, former White House Chief Information Officer, author of Security in a Web 2.0+ World
Continued on page 18
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TECHNOLOGY continued from page 17
Advocacy for Visa Program Changes continues to grow, yet the limit on the number of visas issued in both programs is quickly reached each year, leaving Recognizing the critical role that immigrants play in the New employers unable to fill open positions. England economy, the Council advocated in 2012 for several The NEC also suggested increasing the number of permanent changes to the nation’s visa program to make it easier for resident “green cards” available to foreign-born graduates with highly skilled workers from other countries to remain in the advanced STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) U.S. to fill much-needed positions. In September, The New degrees. Providing green cards for the top foreign graduates of England Council wrote to the New England delegation to U.S. universities with advanced degrees in the STEM fields suggest some updates to the nation’s visa programs that the will help close the skills gap and will enable U.S. companies to Council believes can be addressed on a bipartisan basis and be more competitive in the global economy. While the STEM will have a direct impact on the New England economy. These Jobs Act failed to pass the House in the fall of 2012, the NEC include changes to several visa categories that provide access to is encouraged that Congress recognizes the importance of the U.S. for workers who directly drive the knowledge-based, addressing this issue and will continue to advocate in support services and seasonal businesses of the New England region. of this change in 2013. In particular, the Council’s letter identifies two specific changes To complement the letter to the delegation, NEC President that would be beneficial to our region. First, the letter & CEO Jim Brett also wrote an op-ed piece urging support suggested increasing the cap on H-1B visas—a measure the for these important visa program changes. The piece ran in Council has long supported. The H-1B visa program allows several regional newspapers, including employers to supplement their current workforce with highly The Hartford Business skilled foreign workers in occupations requiring specialized Journal, Mass High Tech, The New Hampshire Business Review, and knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. The Patriot Ledger, The Providence Business News. The demand for workers under the H-1B visa program
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley with Board Member Kathleen Golden of MITRE with Rep. Michael Michaud (D-ME) at Rick Jenkinson of Thermo Fisher Scientific. a Congressional Roundtable in Boston.
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Advocacy & Initiatives 2012
TRANSPORTATION
From the men and women who build our roads and bridges, to the companies who rely on a seamless over- the-road business to business delivery system, to the entrepreneur looking to draw in new international markets, each understands how integral a role a first-class transportation network plays in growing the economic vitality of the New England region. Business leaders look to Capitol Hill to guarantee that New England is treated equitably in whatever transportation legislation is passed, Rep. Frank Guinta (R-NH) and Board Member Mary Usovicz of Repsol at a breakfast in New Hampshire. while New England’s congressional delegation looks to the region’s businesses and policy experts for their ideas Congressman Mike Capuano Addresses Transportation Committee and input as to how the network can be improved. This relationship is fostered through the work of The New In May 2012, members of The New England Council’s Transportation Committee met with Representative Mike England Council’s Transportation Committee, chaired by Capuano (D-MA), the highest-ranking New England Democrat Steve Silveira of ML Strategies, which brings all parties to on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. the table to ensure the transportation needs of the region The meeting, hosted by Committee Chair Steve Silveira, are addressed with one voice. afforded Council members a chance to hear the Congressman’s views on prospects for a surface transportation bill and other pressing transportation matters affecting the region. Conversation with Congressman Frank Guinta The Congressman provided an update on the current state of In March 2012, members of The New England Council’s negotiations over a highway bill, and expressed his frustration Transportation Committee had the opportunity to participate that there was not a more bipartisan approach to tackling our in a conference call with Congressman Frank Guinta (R-NH) nation’s transportation challenges. Congressman Capuano also regarding Congress’ ongoing effort pass a long-term surface fielded questions on other transportation matters, including transportation bill. Through the first half of the year, and the current state of the Highway Trust Fund, the Harbor in particular during consideration of the “Highway Bill,” Maintenance Tax fund, financing challenges for local projects, and Congressman Guinta served on the House Transportation the prospects for increasing the gas tax or a miles-traveled tax. and Infrastructure Committee. st During the call, the Congressman discussed the challenges of Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21 Century reaching compromise on the surface transportation bill and (MAP-21) – Overview outlined the competing priorities. Rep. Guinta highlighted Prefaced by two conversations with New England Congressional the benefits of the House-passed bill, including that it provides leaders on the prospects of passing a Highway bill in 2012, in five years of funding, was free of earmarks that would eliminate late June the House and Senate did just that, adopting the or consolidate about 70 transportation programs, and that it Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) would cut down delivery time of highway projects. Congressman by overwhelming majorities. On July 6th, President Obama Guinta’s remarks were quite timely, as the surface transportation signed the measure into law, ensuring the continued flow of law was set to expire at the end of March. His assessment federal dollars to a number of federal highway, bridge, transit, provided members a window on how elusive deals can be even safety, and other related programs. Subsequently, The New on such perennially popular bills as determining highway England Council provided members a detailed summary of spending levels for each state in the nation. major provisions included in the new law.
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2012 EVENTS
ANNUAL DINNER OCTOBER 4, 2012 BOSTON, MA
With nearly 1400 members in attendance, our 2012 The Honorable John Larson Annual Dinner was the largest and most successful in United States Representative The New England Council’s history. Held on October 4, Congressman John Larson has represented Connecticut’s 1st 2012, at the Seaport Hotel/World Trade Center in Congressional District in the House of Representatives since Boston, the dinner was chaired by Greg Butler, Senior January 1999. In November 2010, his colleagues reelected him to a second term as the Chair of the House Democratic Vice President & General Counsel at Northeast Utilities, Caucus, making him the 4th ranking Democrat in the House. a member of our Board of Directors. Renowned Irish Rep. Larson also serves on the influential Ways & Means Tenor Ronan Tynan once again lent his incredible voice Committee, and has been a leader on a wide range of issues to provide the evening’s entertainment. affecting the New England region, from job creation, to energy independence, to advanced manufacturing.
David McCullough Pulitzer Prize Winning Author Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner David McCullough has been described as a “master of the art of narrative history,” and has been honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award. Time and again, his books top the New York Times Best Sellers list, and his 2001 biography John Adams remains one of the most praised and widely read American biographies of all time. He has lectured around the world, and is one of the few private citizens to address a joint session of Congress. Board Member Ann Daley of Pitney Bowes with New Englander of the Year Rep. John Larson (D-CT). Robert K. Sheridan The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2012 President & CEO, Savings Bank Life Insurance (SBLI) New Englander of the Year awards. We were pleased to honor In November 2012, Bob Sheridan retired after 20 remarkable several distinguished recipients this year: years at the helm of one of the nation’s leading life insurance providers, Savings Bank Life Insurance (SBLI). During his Abigail P. Johnson tenure, Bob led SBLI through impressive growth and success, President, Fidelity Financial Services transforming the company from a small local insurer to a large Abigail Johnson is president of Fidelity Financial Services, national competitor. In addition to his personal support for an organization which comprises all of the core financial a wide range of charitable causes, from higher education to services businesses of Fidelity Investments, including asset children’s charities, Bob also established SBLI as one of our management, retail and institutional brokerage, retirement region’s most generous corporate citizens. planning, portfolio guidance, and benefits services for more than 20 million individuals, institutions and financial intermediaries. Ms. Johnson also is vice chairman and director of FMR LLC, the holding company for the businesses of Fidelity Investments; a member of the Fidelity Executive Committee; and chairman of Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMRCo) and the Fixed-Income/Asset Allocation Board of Trustees.
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EVENTS 2012
New Englander of the Year David McCullough accepts Board Member Mark Reilly of Comcast with Mark Gallagher Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) presents Bob Sheridan his award from NEC President & CEO Jim Brett. and John Muggeridge of Fidelity Investments. with his New Englander of the Year Award.
[LARGE PHOTO TOP] Our 2012 Honorees: Bob Sheridan, Rep. John Larson (D-CT), Abigail Johnson, and David McCullough. 21 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 EVENTS
ANNUAL SPRING EVENT MARCH 28-29, 2012 WASHINGTON, DC
The New England Council’s 2012 Annual Spring Event We kicked off the Annual Spring Event with a briefing by in Washington, DC, was easily our biggest and most Obama Administration officials at the White House. It was successful to date. Well over 200 New England Council standing room only in the South Court Auditorium of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building as NEC members heard members representing all six states gathered in our from an impressive line-up of speakers, including White nation’s capital on March 28th and 29th for a fantastic House Chief of Staff Jack Lew, SBA Administrator Karen lineup of events. Mills, Deputy Director of the National Economic Council Brian Deese, and Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Demetrios Marantis.
Following the White House Briefing, NEC members gathered in the historic Kennedy Caucus Room in the Russell Senate Office Building for our annual Capitol Hill Reception. Always a highlight of the Annual Spring Event, the reception was attended by many members of the New England Congressional delegation, as well as many members of their staffs. The reception was a great opportunity for NEC members to network with each other and with their representatives in Congress.
We concluded the formal program with our annual Congressional Breakfast on Thursday morning. With four members of the New England delegation set to retire at the end of 2012, the NEC used the breakfast as an opportunity to Board Member John Stadtler of PriceWaterhouseCoopers with Sen. John Kerry honor them with lifetime achievement awards in recognition (D-MA) at the Capital Hill Reception. of their contributions to the region. Congressmen Barney Frank and John Olver were on hand to accept their awards, and Senators Joe Lieberman and Olympia Snow were represented by their Chiefs of Staff.
Following the Congressional Breakfast, several of our policy committees gathered for meetings with members of Congress and Administration officials to discuss issues specific to their sector.
Rep. Niki Tsongas (D-MA) and Board Member Laurel Sweeney of Philips Healthcare at the Captial Hill Reception.
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EVENTS 2012
Board Member Tom Flannery of Ernst & Young with Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) chats with Board Members Tom Board Member Frank McDougall of Dartmouth Hitchcock Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT) Samoluk of John Hancock Financial Services and Paul Mattera Medical Center with White House Chief of Staff Jack Lew of Liberty Mutual. at the White House Briefing.
[LARGE PHOTO TOP] Ken Lemanski of Westfield State University, Board Member John Doyle of PretiFlaherty, Patrick Doyle of 23 Rolling Stone Magazine, Severin Beliveau of Preti Flaherty, Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), and Mike Cuzzi of VOX Global. THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 EVENTS
CONGRESSIONAL ROUNDTABLE SERIES
The Congressional Roundtable series offers New England Council In 2012, the New England Council members the opportunity to hear from and interact with members hosted over 25 Congressional Roundtable of the New England Congressional delegation in a small group events in all six New England states featuring members of the New England setting, usually over breakfast or lunch. Congressional delegation:
Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal Congressman Joe Courtney Congressman Jim Himes Congressman John Larson Congressman Chris Murphy
Maine Congressman Michael Michaud Congresswoman Chellie Pingree
Massachusetts Senator John Kerry Senator Scott Brown Congressman Michael Capuano Congressman Barney Frank Congressman William Keating Board Member Bob DiMuccio of Amica Mutual Insurance with Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-RI) at a roundtable in Providence, RI. Congressman Edward Markey Congressman Richard Neal Congressman James McGovern Congressman John Tierney Congresswoman Niki Tsongas
New Hampshire Senator Kelly Ayotte Senator Jeanne Shaheen Congressman Charles Bass Congressman Frank Guinta
Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed Senator Sheldon Whitehouse Congressman David Cicilline Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME) with Hilary Rapkin of WEX at a roundtable in Congressman James Langevin Portland, ME. Vermont Congressman Peter Welch
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EVENTS 2012
Rep. Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Peg Morton of Board Member Teresa Rosenberger of Devine Strategies with Jim Segel of Smith, Smith, Segel & Ruddock with Rep. Jim Northeast Utilities at a roundtable in Hartford, CT. Rep. Charles Bass (R-NH) in Bedford, NH. McGovern (D-MA) at a roundtable in Boston, MA.
[LARGE PHOTO TOP] MetroHartford Alliance CEO Oz Griebel, Kevin Hennessey of Dominon Resources, Rep. Joe Courtney 25 (D-CT), and NEC President & CEO Jim Brett. THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 EVENTS
FEATURED EVENTS
From time to time throughout the year, The New England During 2012, the Council hosted a variety of featured events: Council hosts special events or roundtables with other Briefing with World Bank & OPIC Officials key federal policymakers and regional and national At a special briefing in March 2012 at Bank of America in political figures. Boston, World Bank U.S. Executive Director Ian Solomon and OPIC (Overseas Private Investment Corporation) Executive Vice President Mimi Alemayehou spoke to NEC members about World Bank and OPIC programs and highlighted upcoming activities that would be of interest to U.S. firms involved in international trade and investment.
Immigration Forum with Mayor Michael Bloomberg & Rupert Murdoch In August 2012, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and News Corporation Chairman & CEO Rupert Murdoch discussed federal immigration policy and its impact on economic growth in a panel discussion moderated by The Wall Street Journal’s Jerry Seib. The forum was held at the Seaport Hotel in Boston and sponsored by SBLI.
Smart Infrastructure Report Release The NEC and Deloitte released the Smart Infrastructure in New England report at a special event at Bank of America in Boston in October 2012. The event featured a presentation Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Curry College President Kenneth Quigley, by NEC board member Mike Reopel, the lead author of the and Rupert Murdoch of News Corporation. report, followed by a panel discussion of the issues raised in the report.
Breakfast with MA Attorney General Martha Coakley Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley spoke to NEC members at a breakfast event at the Hampshire House in Boston in October 2012. The AG highlighted her office’s work on a wide range of issues, including the foreclosure crisis, human trafficking, and energy costs.
Post-Election Analysis with Mark Shields Renowned political analyst Mark Shields of the PBS News Hour offered his insights and analysis of the 2012 Presidential and Congressional races at a special event at the Hampshire House in Boston. The event was sponsored by Blue Cross Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley with Board Member Blue Shield of MA and Bank of America. Joe Alviani of Partners Healthcare.
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EVENTS 2012
Governors’ Forums
While the New England Council has traditionally focused on Governor Deval Patrick fostering relationships between member organizations and members In April 2012, some 200 New England Council members of the New England Congressional delegation, the Council also gathered at Bank of America in Boston for a special recognizes the important role that the Governors of the six New presentation by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. England states play in shaping policy on issues of importance to the Governor Patrick outlined the Commonwealth’s strategy for economic growth, which focuses on investment in entire region. In 2012, the Council provided members with several three key areas: education, innovation, and infrastructure. opportunities to hear from some of the region’s Governors on their The Governor highlighted some of the successes that have work to support the region’s economy and to promote growth and already resulted from that three-prong strategy, and job creation in each of their states. outlined the challenges that still remain.
Governor John Lynch As he neared the conclusion of his fourth and final term as the Granite State’s chief executive, New Hampshire Governor John Lynch met with New England Council members at a forum in Boston. The Governor highlighted his work to support businesses in New Hampshire, particularly by keeping the cost of doing business low, and by providing a skilled workforce and job training resources to support growth.
Bob Gallery and Anne Finucane of Bank of America talk with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick.
Patricia Jacobs of AT&T with New Hampshire Governor John Lynch.
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2012 EVENTS
POLITICS & EGGS SERIES
Taking advantage of New England’s unique position as home After hosting a majority of the GOP to the nation’s first presidential primary in New Hampshire, the presidential candidates in 2011, the Politics & Politics & Eggs series was launched in 1996 as a forum for local Eggs series played host to several high profile surrogates in 2012: business leaders to hear from presidential candidates in an intimate
setting as they visit the Granite State to campaign and build early The Honorable Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) support. Since its inception, the breakfast series has played host Chair of the Democratic National Committee to nearly every major party presidential candidate and is today The Honorable Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) considered as “must-stop” on the presidential campaign trail. Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee In recent years, the series has expanded to include issues forums held in the years between presidential election cycles. These events The Honorable Ted Strickland (D-OH) feature nationally known political figures, analysts, and respected Former Governor of Ohio & national co-chair of President Obama’s reelection campaign journalists. Politics & Eggs is a partnership between The New England Council and the New Hampshire Institute of Politics & Political Library at Saint Anselm College.
Shannon Ames of Brookfield Renewable Energy Group with Jack Sanders of Pierce Atwood with Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL).
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ABOUT THE COUNCIL 2012
DC DIALOGUE
Each month, The New England Council partners with New Guests appearing on “DC Dialogue” England Cable News (NECN) and Natixis Global Asset in 2012 included: Management to produce “DC Dialogue,” a half-hour public Administrator Karen Mills U.S. Small Business Administration affairs discussion show airing on NECN on Sunday mornings. Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) The show is hosted by NECN anchor Kristy Lee, and New England Council President & CEO Jim Brett and Board Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) Chairman John Hailer serve as the show’s regular panelists. Representative Michael Capuano (D-MA) Representative David Cicilline (D-RI) Through thoughtful discussions with key federal policymakers Representative Edward Markey (D-MA) and economic experts, “DC Dialogue” explores decisions made John Hoffmeister on Capitol Hill and their impact on the economy here in New Citizens for Affordable Energy England. During 2012, the show explored a wide range of Carl Hulse The New York Times important issues, including federal energy policy, cyber security, David Paleologos small business, advanced manufacturing, transportation and Suffolk University Political Research Center infrastructure, and the 2012 elections. Mike Reopel Deloitte Consulting Paula Rooney Dean College
NECN’s Kristy Lee on set with Jim Brett and John Hailer. 29 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 ABOUT THE COUNCIL
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Led by Chairman John Hailer, CEO of Natixis Global CHAIRMAN David T. Blackburn Asset Management, The New England Council’s Board John T. Hailer Managing Director President & CEO Marsh USA Inc. of Directors includes some of the top executives at Natixis Global Asset Management, LP Boston, MA the region’s most well-known and highly respected Boston, MA institutions. Bringing expertise from a wide range of Peter T. Bowman TREASURER Vice President industries and a deep understanding of the unique Thomas F. Flannery MA /RI External Affairs elements of the New England economy, the board works Partner Verizon closely with Council staff to build the membership, to Ernst & Young LLP Boston, MA identify issues in which the Council should be engaged, Boston, MA Connie L. Brennan to shape the council’s policy positions, and to develop SECRETARY Senior Vice President, high-quality programming for members. The following James T. Brett Northern Group Manager is a list of board members as of December 2012. President & CEO TD Bank The New England Council Portland, ME Boston, MA Stephen H. Bryant Joseph Alviani President Vice President for Government Affairs Columbia Gas Partners HealthCare System, Inc. of Massachusetts Boston, MA Westborough, MA
Dr. Joseph Aoun Greg Butler President Senior Vice President Northeastern University & General Counsel Boston, MA Northeast Utilities Hartford, CT Joseph Baerlein President Robert L. Caret Rasky/Baerlein Strategic President Communications, Inc. University of Massachusetts Board Member David Blackburn of Marsh USA with Rep. Jim Himes Boston, MA Boston, MA (D-CT). Joseph J. Barry Paul Choquette, III Senior Vice President – Regulatory, Vice President Industry & Government Affairs Gilbane Building Company State Street Corporation Providence, RI Boston, MA Kevin C. Conroy Elizabeth C. Barton Counsel Partner Foley Hoag LLP Day Pitney LLP Boston, MA Hartford, CT Jay Curley Dr. James F. Birge Senior Vice President President Blue Cross Blue Shield Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) and Board Member Jay Curley of Franklin Pierce University of Massachusetts Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Rindge, NH Boston, MA
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ABOUT THE COUNCIL 2012
Ann M. Daley William J. Geary, Esq. Vice President, Government External Counsel & Regulatory Affairs Clean Harbors Environmental Pitney Bowes Inc. Services, Inc. Stamford, CT Squantum, MA
Joseph Dalton David Goggin Director, Government Director of State Government Affairs & Regulatory Affairs Amgen Inc. IPR-GDF SUEZ North America Cambridge, MA Charlestown, MA New Board Member Kristin Fraser of KPMG with Christopher E. Goode Rep. James Langevin (D-RI). Gerald “Jerry” Daly Vice President, Regional Vice President, Global Corporate Affairs W. Patrick Hughes Client Management & Public Policy President & CEO UnitedHealthcare EMC Corporation Fallon Community Health Plan Hartford, CT Hopkinton, MA Worcester, MA
Robert A. DiMuccio James A. Grasso James W. Hunt, Jr. Chairman, President & CEO President & CEO President & CEO Amica Mutual Insurance Company Grasso Associates, LLC MA League of Community Lincoln, RI Needham, MA Health Centers Boston, MA John P. Doyle, Jr. Gary R. Greenberg Chair, Health Law Practice Group Co-Managing Shareholder Joanne Y. Jaxtimer Preti Flaherty Greenberg Traurig, LLP Managing Director – Portland, ME Boston, MA Corporate Affairs/New England BNY Mellon Donald J. Farish, Ph.D Anne Hawley Boston, MA President Director Roger Williams University Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Richard D. Jenkinson Bristol, RI Boston, MA Director of Government Relations & Public Affairs Joseph Fay, Esq. Thomas F. Holt, Jr. Thermo Fisher Scientific General Counsel Partner Waltham, MA Yankee Atomic Electric Company K&L Gates LLP Wiscasset, ME Boston, MA James ‘J.J.’ Johnson Executive Vice President, Thomas F. Flaherty Government Relations & Public Policy Vice President Fidelity Investments Sprague Operating Resources LLC Boston, MA Portsmouth, NH Damon D. Jones Kristin L. Fraser Global Communications Director Managing Partner Procter & Gamble KPMG LLP Boston, MA Providence, RI
Board Member Tom Flaherty of Sprague Operating Resources with Sen. Kelly Ayotee (R-NH). 31 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 ABOUT THE COUNCIL
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Marty Jones Annmarie Levins President & CEO Associate General Counsel MassDevelopment Microsoft Corporation Boston, MA Cambridge, MA
Dennis J. Kearney, Esq. Raymond G. Long Partner Vice President of Government Affairs – Kearney, Donovan, & McGee, PC Northeast Region Boston, MA NRG Energy, Inc. Middletown, CT Thomas Kershaw Board Member Ray Long of LNG Energy with Owner & President James Mahoney Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). The Hampshire House Senior Vice President Patrick C. McHugh Boston, MA Bank of America President – New Hampshire Boston, MA Eric A. Kraus FairPoint Communications Senior Vice President of Corporate Paul Mattera Manchester, NH Communications & Public Affairs Senior Vice President & Dianne M. Mercier Covidien Chief Public Affairs Officer President – New Hampshire Mansfield, MA The Liberty Mutual Group People’s United Bank Boston, MA William P. Leahy Portsmouth, NH Vice President, State & Legislative James McCaffrey Dr. Patricia Maguire Meservey Affairs Strategy Senior Partner President AT&T Mercer Salem State University Boston, MA Boston, MA Salem, MA Matthew B. LeBretton, Esq. Frank McDougall Edmund F. Murphy, III Director of Public Affairs Vice President, Government Relations Head of Defined Contribution New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Putnam Investments Boston, MA Lebanon, NH Boston, MA
Joseph R. Nolan, Jr. Senior Vice President, Corporate Relations Northeast Utilities Boston, MA
Matthew F. Power Executive Vice President Lexington Insurance Boston, MA
Thomas D. Rath Managing Partner Rath, Young, and Pignatelli, PA Concord, NH
Board Member Matt LeBretton of New Balance with Rep. Michael Michaud (D-ME) and Patrick Welch, also of New Balance. 32 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
ABOUT THE COUNCIL 2012
Marcy L. Reed Lauren M. Rowley Joanne M. Sullivan President – Massachusetts Vice President, Vice President & Director of National Grid USA Government Affairs Government and Community Relations Waltham, MA CVS Federal Home Loan Bank Boston Washington, DC Boston, MA Mark E. Reilly Senior Vice President, Thomas Samoluk Laurel Sweeney Government & Regulatory Vice President & Counsel, Senior Director, Reimbursement Relations, Northeast Division Government Relations & Legislative Affairs Comcast Cable Communications John Hancock Financial Services Philips Healthcare Manchester, NH Boston, MA Andover, MA
Michael Reopel Eric H. Schultz H. Lawrence Tafe, III Principal President & CEO Of Counsel Deloitte Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Day Pitney LLP Boston, MA Wellesley, MA Boston, MA
Ken Robinson Robert K. Sheridan Mary Usovicz Senior Vice President & President & CEO Vice President, External Affairs Director of Government Affairs Savings Bank Life Insurance Repsol Energy, N.A. Citizens Bank of Massachusetts Salem, MA Providence, RI Woburn, MA Christopher P. Vincze James Roosevelt, Jr. Gregory H. Smith Chairman & CEO Chief Executive Officer Director TRC Companies, Inc. Tufts Health Plan McLane, Graf, Raulerson Lowell, MA Watertown, MA & Middleton, P.A. Concord, NH Daniel A. Weekley Teresa R. Rosenberger Managing Director – President John W. Stadtler Northeast Government Affairs Devine Strategies Senior Partner Dominion Resources Manchester, NH PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Waterford, CT Boston, MA Peter Welsh Executive Vice President, Work Acquisition – Northeast Region Suffolk Construction Boston, MA
William K. Wray Chief Operating Officer Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island Providence, RI
Board Member Marcy Reed of National Grid with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. 33 THE NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL
2012 ABOUT THE COUNCIL
NEW MEMBERS
The New England Council was pleased to welcome the following new members during 2012:
AARP-NH Hill Holliday Admirals Bespoke Banking Jenzabar, Inc. Ameresco Johnson and Wales University American Red Cross Kirkland Albrecht & Fredrickson, LLC Anbaric Transmission Liberty Utilities Bank of Canton McGladrey & Pullen BELL Foundation MSA Security Boston Scientific New England Power Generators Association Annabel Beerel of the New England Women’s Boston University New England Women’s Leadership Institute Leadership Institute with Rep. Bill Keating Bridgewater State University Nixon Peabody Bridgewell NOREL Service Co., Inc. Burns & Levinson Northeastern Retail Lumber Association Cassidy Turley FHO Polar Beverages Catholic Medical Center Rhode Island Association of School Committees Collaborative Consulting Rivier College Commodore Builders Rockland Trust Company Community Credit Union Saint Joseph’s College of Maine Congress Asset Management Company SCI EasCare Solomon McCown & Company EDC Stonehill College Expense Reduction Analysts The Boston Home
Christine Hayes of Admirals Bespoke Banking Federal Fabrics-Fibers Inc. The Commonwealth Corporation with Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI). Fitchburg State University Towers Watson GE UNITIL Get Your Edge University of Maine Granite State College WBIN TV Griffin York & Krause William Higgins Insurance H4B Back Bay
Rep. Ed Markey (D-MA) with Michael Bergan of EasCare.
34 New England Council Event Photography by Image Photo (Margaret Brett) M ISSION N EW E NGLAND C OUNCIL O FFICES
BOSTON WASHINGTON 98 North Washington St., Suite 201 331 Constitution Ave., NE Boston, MA 02114 Washington, DC 20002 PHONE: 617.723.4009 Phone: 202.547.0048 FAX: 617.723.3943 Fax: 202.547.9149
E-MAIL: [email protected] • WEB: www.newenglandcouncil.com
The New England Council gratefully acknowledges Northeast Utilities System for its support in the production of this report.