The agenda for the 2011 CRI West meeting has been finalized, with several issues set for discussion of particular interest to West Coast carpet manufacturers. According to Carpet and Rug Institute Vice-President Frank Hurd, two agenda items will cover information vital to California mills. First, Mr. Hurd will give details of the ongoing implementation of AB 2398, California's Carpet Stewardship Program. Under the law, which is set to take effect July 1, 2011, manufacturers will be required to submit a stewardship plan to the state. The law also requires an assessment of 5 cents per square yard on all carpet shipped into California.

In addition, CRI President Werner Braun will provide information on current limits on caprolactam proposed by California's Office of Environmental Health and Hazard Assessment (OEHHA). Mr. Braun will discuss the implications of the new limits, what actions CRI has taken on behalf of the industry, as well as the expected outcomes of the efforts.

The meeting will take place May, 3, 2011 from 8 until 11am at the Irvine Marriott in Irvine, California. A breakfast sponsored by Bentley Prince Street will be served starting at 7:15am. Reservations are still being accepted; call 949 553 0100. To register for the event, contact Linda Harrington at lharrington@carpet-rug.org