What you can do in 2002. (Observations from NAA's President).

I wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year. I'm very excited to continue working with the National Apartment Association (NAA) members and affiliates throughout 2002. There are many important legislative topics that will be affecting the multifamily housing industry this year--mold, the Millennial Housing Commission's report, terrorist legislation and taxes, just to name a few. You may be wondering what exactly the "hot topics" for this year are, or how you can make a difference in how your representatives vote. This month's issue will help to answer those questions and more.

NAA's state and local policy department--which includes three attorneys and a lobbyist--monitors and tracks legislation throughout the United States. In State Legislative Forecast, on page 32, they share with you a 2002 state-by-state breakdown of current laws and legislation that are occurring in your communities.

NAA/National Multi Housing Council's (NMHC) Joint Legislative Staff lobby's and advocates for the multifamily homing industry on Capitol Hill. The Joint Legislative Staff is made up of 10 multifamily professionals. This diverse group has experience in all aspects of the industry, ranging from taxes to the environment, to building codes. See what each of them has to say about their specialized field for 2002 in the Joint Legislative Staff Forecast on page 40.

NAA/NMHC aren't the only industry experts featured in this issue. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) professionals discuss topics that affect us all. Hear from HUD Secretary Md Martinez, Mary Smith, EPA's Director of the Office of Indoor Environments, and Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao in What's in Store? on page 46.

I've told you about some of the issues that we believe will be important this year. You may be wondering what you can do to make sure your congressman or representative is on the same side of an issue as you. One of the best ways to do that is to meet with him in person and make yourself heard. The NAA Capitol Conference, held in Washington, D.C., March 9-12, 2002 --held at the Pentagon City Ritz Carlton--will give you this opportunity. The Capitol Conference enables NAA members to rally on the Hill for our legislative priorities and to meet with their representatives. For more information on the Capitol Conference see Making Your Voice Heard on the Hill on page 52. If you'd like more information about the Capitol Conference or would like to register, contact Meredith Thomas at 703/518-6141, Ext. 136, or via e-mail at [e-mail]. The multifamily industry is made up of a unique combination of individuals. Industry Leaders, on page 58, gives you insight on a few of the industry's top movers and shakers.

From Leaks to Lawsuits, on page 62, explains how prevention is the best form of defense against mold lawsuits. It is of utmost importance that owners and residents have a dear and concise understanding of ways to prevent mold infestations from occurring. Residents and owners should each be responsible for mold prevention and keep the lines of communication open.