TLPA Conference Explores What’s New for 2019

TLPA President Terry O’Toole Rockville, Md. — The preliminary agenda for the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association’s (TLPA’s) Spring Conference & Expo has been published, offering attendees a first look at the event that’s heading to New Orleans this April.

The action starts April 24 with an exciting keynote speaker, an important discussion on a threat to nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) funding, the exploration of new opportunities in mobility options, and the unveiling of a major rebranding effort for the association itself, among other topics.

Among the hottest of sessions will be a presentation on federal efforts to allow states to waive Medicaid-funded transportation. This funding threat is part of cost-cutting measures by the federal government that could potentially affect millions of passengers in need of transportation, including people with dialysis appointments, the elderly with doctors’ appointments and children with disabilities.

“Transportation companies across the United States are a lifeline for these passengers who otherwise could not afford these trips,” said TLPA President Terry O’Toole. “Cutting service in any way will result in increased healthcare costs due to untreated conditions and missed appointments with doctors. Our members need to be united, educated and involved in ensuring these services remain in place.”

Meanwhile, buzz is building about the conference’s much-anticipated keynote speaker, Kayvan Baroumand, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and incubator founder, who will speak on Total Quality Management. A recent training session on delivering top-quality service he conducted for drivers in one TLPA fleet elicited a standing ovation.

Members will also have the historic opportunity to cast their vote to change the name of TLPA. An overall strategic repositioning and rebranding effort has been underway for more than a year.

The Expo portion of the event will showcase services and products of familiar faces and new vendors alike, from across North America and from as far away as India and the Philippines. From dispatching software to insurance, and from call centers to wheelchair equipment, the Expo always offers something for fleets of all sizes. Attendees will have the chance to mingle in a relaxed and casual atmosphere with exhibitors throughout the evening, enjoying an open bar sponsored by MTI Dispatch.

Some 200 transportation executives and top industry vendors are expected to attend the Conference & Expo from April 24 to 25. Exhibit space is filling up quickly, so vendors are encouraged to reserve a spot today. Attendees can also make hotel reservations through TLPA’s portal.

Visit tlpa.org for more information.

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