NSC Develops Federal Check-off Program
By Masonry
The Natural Stone Council (NSC) announced the development of a congressionally authorized “check-off” program, an industry-funded research and promotion effort that would expand the market for natural stone in the United States and increase demand of natural stone products.
Other industries, including the avocado producers, cotton farmers, the pork industry and milk producers have experienced tremendous success through similar programs. Revenue from the check-off program will be administered and approved by the government-appointed Natural Stone Research & Promotion Board (NSRPB). This group will be representative of all industry segments, including importers, and would be responsible for allocating funds and approving business and marketing plans.
In order to move the program forward, Congress must pass special legislation to authorize a check-off program for natural stone. Cornerstone Government Affairs has been retained to work on behalf of the NSC to further the passage of this legislation in Congress. Both will work with the appropriate Federal agencies and Congress to achieve authorization of the natural stone check-off program. Ideally, the check-off program will be implemented by early-2010.
For more information, visit www.genuinestone.org.
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