Yesterday, several companies announced the formation of the Unmanned Systems Association of Virginia (USAV), which will seek to “promote a legal and regulatory framework that supports innovation, collaboration and growth in the unmanned systems industry in the Commonwealth.” Leading the effort for Williams Mullen are attorneys Kevin Pomfret and Patrick Cushing. The USAV was formed with support and encouragement from Governor McAuliffe and U.S. Senator Mark Warner.
Kevin will serve as the Interim Executive Director of the USAV, while Patrick will serve as one of the association’s registered lobbyists before the Virginia General Assembly and Administration. A team from McGuireWoods Consulting will also support the management of the association as well as share in lobbying responsibilities.
The organization’s mission will be to help grow the unmanned systems industry in Virginia through “advocacy efforts focused on economic and workforce development, financial incentives and a business-friendly regulatory environment.”
In a press release, Kevin stated: “It is anticipated that the 2017 legislative session will see a significant number of bills introduced that will impact unmanned systems and it is critical that Virginia remain competitive, not only to Virginia’s existing industry, but to those businesses that may wish to relocate here.”
To read the full press release, click here.
For more information on the USAV, visit their website at http://unmatchedva.org.
If you have any questions about the USAV, please contact Kevin or Patrick.