MLA In The News
Experts debate whether the unexpected demise of the "death tax" will breathe new life into the 1031 exchange market in 2010. MLA partner J. Timothy Scott, for one, doesn't see the zero estate tax goosing exchanges.
Talk has revived that the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. is putting in place a plan to securitize assets from the failed banks that it currently holds on its books. Last October, the agency indicated that such a plan was under consideration; more recently similar comments have been made. Managing Director Brian Olasov is quoted.
Stefan Passantino, Partner, McKenna Long and Aldridge LLP, and Head of the Political Law practice, responds in a blog of The National Law Journal to President Obama’s recent State of the Union address in which he laid out further restrictions on lobbyists.
Brian Olasov addressed the Congressional Oversight Panel in a hearing focused on banks' reluctance to finance new developments or refinance existing deals with reasonable workouts.
The Congressional Oversight Panel is widening its inquiry into the souring commercial loan market as part of its review of a federal bailout program. Brian Olasov, a managing director at law firm McKenna Long Aldridge, spoke at the Panel's hearing in Atlanta.
MLA Political Law practice chair, Stefan Passantino, discusses the impact the Citizens United v. FEC ruling will likely have on state pay to play laws.
Michael Boucher is quoted regarding EPA's announced plans to take a closer look at those chemical identities claimed as confidential in TSCA section 8(e) filings, which are submitted when a company discovers a chemical may pose a substantial risk.
California Real Estate Journal selected the Malibu City Hall transaction, represented by McKenna Long & Aldridge partners Tony Canzoneri and Geoffrey Mitchell, as one its top Deals of 2009.
Peter Gray is quoted regarding the significance of a toxic tort case.
MLA Partner Sharon Gay is quoted discussing the governor’s plan for special tax districts used to fund road and rail projects.
Michael Boucher is quoted regarding a recent analysis by the Environmental Working Group saying confidential business information (CBI) protections in the U.S. keep crucial chemical information from the public and even from EPA personnel.
Senior Counsel, C. Stanley Dees is quoted discussing the new appointment of Daniel Gordon the new head of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP).
Washington DC associates, Jason Silverman and Jason Workmaster were both named to the McKenna Long & Aldridge partnership in the Washington DC office as of January 1, 2010.
Ethics attorneys, including MLA Partner Stefan Passantino, are finding ways to help clients respond to the growing number of restrictions on registered lobbyists
MLA partner and chair of the Global Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnership team, Frank Rapoport, comments on the government's struggle to keep up with maintaining aging infrastructure and explains why they should be turning to private investments.
Patrick McGeehan discusses the importance of understanding that buying distressed mortgage debt is not the same as buying the real estate collateral.
Georgia had a record number of bank failures in 2009, and 2010 could be as bad or worse.
The FDIC recently closed its 22nd, 23rd and 24th banks in Georgia this year — more than any other state in the country. The populist response to these banking failures — and the broader financial crisis — has been to lump financial services firms together indiscriminately and rail against excessive bonuses, risk-taking and “bail out” money many of these firms received under the TARP program. In this op-ed, Brian Olasov discusses why Georgia's economic recovery hinges on the outlook for Georgia’s banks.
During the December 15 edition of The Hayes Advantage on Bloomberg Radio, Peter Gray discusses the Climate Change conference in Copenhagen as well as the chances of passage of a climate change bill.
During a December 15 interview with Fox Business Network, Peter Gray discusses what has been happening in Copenhagen and how the talks there could change the way companies do business in the US.
Brian Olasov, a former Wall Street executive who consults on banking and finance for McKenna Long & Aldridge, said he's doubtful bankers will fall in line with the White House.
Alison Doyle is quoted regarding a Freedom of Information Act request is an act of public disclosure under the False Claims Act.
As one of the most contentious issues in the international climate negotiations, climate finance is expected to be a major focus in Copenhagen. During today's OnPoint, Jon Sohn explains the climate finance issue and discusses U.S. and European pledges for international aid to developing nations.
One of the biggest obstacles to achieving a global climate change agreement is a fundamental difference between how developed and developing economies would set carbon-emission goals. The big developed economies prefer absolute emissions targets while emerging markets want “carbon intensity” cuts based on the rate of a country’s GDP growth.
Partners Bill Pham and Tony Canzoneri were quoted in Real Estate Southern California magazine, which wanted to know how Southern California's most prominent real estate lawyers saw the most pressing legal issues of the day—and what they are doing to survive.
Stefan Passantino discusses the ethical issues and prevalence of legal defense funds, and the increase of these funds on the state level.
Following a recent speaking engagement at the Wharton School, Brian Olasov joined Dr. Sam Chandan to discuss the TALF and PPIP programs and the outlook for the private-public interface in 2010.
In an ominous sign for the recovery, bank loans are drying up faster than ever. "There are people with legitimate projects out there who cannot get loans, and we can't sustain a real recovery without access to credit," said Brian Olasov.
Joann Jones, a partner in the Real Estate practice, has been named as the Atlanta Office Managing Partner.
MLA Chairman, Jeff Haidet is a featured speaker at the new leadership program offered by the Terry College of Business at its Buckhead campus.
Cal/EPA’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) hosted its fifth nanotechnology symposium, “Nanotechnology Initiative Symposium V: An Industry Perspective” in Sacramento on November 16, 2009. The symposium focused on the benefits, risks, potential health and environmental impacts of the emerging nanotechnology industry.
Federal regulators haven’t put enough pressure on banks to unload poorly performing commercial real estate loans, according to a panel of industry leaders convened by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. “Investors don’t feel the (banks) are under real regulatory pressure to liquidate,” said Brian Olasov.
Duke Realty Corp. has taken a $50 million write-down on the value of its 3630 Peachtree project in Buckhead, another sign of the worsening commercial real estate mess. “Atlanta has always been a developers’ market,” said Brian Olasov, a managing director with the law firm McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP. “To that extent, banks are going to suffer disproportionately in Atlanta.”
Commercial real estate has more rough water ahead of it as the economy recovers, though some bright spots exist in the market, according to Brian Olasov and other panelists who spoke at the 15th annual FSU Real Estate Trends & Networking Conference.
The Commerce Department released GDP figures that showed a 3.5% growth in Q3 – the fastest pace in two years, but the real estate industry is taking little solace from the numbers.
Lisa Oberg comments on the San Francisco County Superior Court’s efforts to create a single asbestos department where all discovery, law and motion, and case management matters will be heard.
Scotty Greenwood's article discussing the importance of the arts in a culture’s diplomatic efforts and reputation.
Mark Meagher, office managing partner of McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP's Denver office, discusses government contracts law.
Partner Mick Cochran is quoted in an article about private equity firms eager to enter banking.
New Orleans is considering privatizing Louis Armstrong International Airport next year despite the failed $2.5 billion transaction for Chicago's Midway Airport over the summer. Frank M. Rapoport, Senior Partner and Chair of the Global Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnerships practice, is quoted on the likelihood investors and operators will consider bidding on Armstrong International.
MLA Chairman Jeff Haidet, and Chief Recruiting Officer Jennifer Queen are quoted regarding the firm's hiring and growth in the current economic climate.
Corporate partner Ann-Marie McGaughey is quoted on the cooperation and team work between the U.S. and Canada in the government bailouts for the auto industry.
Scotty Greenwood comments on the honor and importance of Ambassador David Jacobson’s post as ambassador to Canada in Canada.
The postmortem reports on many of Georgia's failed banks have blistered directors and management for their actions, but they have also characterized the watchdogs of the industry as being asleep at the switch, observers say. Brian Olasov comments.
Peter Gray, Partner with the firm's Environment, Energy & Product Regulation practice, weighs in on climate change from a corporate perspective.
Gail Zirkelbach, a government-contracts attorney, has rejoined the firm as a partner.
Scotty Greenwood discusses the issues the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada will face upon arrival, as well as the knowledge he has gained from working in Washington, D.C. before reporting to his new post.
Dan Beale weighs in on the legality, and possible implications, of employers mandating the H1N1, or swine flu, vaccine.
Robert Bohn, a senior associate in the government contracts practice group in McKenna Long & Aldridge's Los Angeles office, believes that treating yourself as just an employee won't get you far.
Scotty Greenwood is quoted discussing the honor of David Jacobson’s new role as ambassador to Canada.
Partner Bill Ide is mentioned in this article on the recently released report on executive pay by The Conference Board Task Force on Executive Compensation.
U.S. bank regulators are considering tapping a line of credit with the U.S. Treasury Department and may explore other lesser-known options to replenish the dwindling fund that safeguards bank deposits. Brian Olasov says "there are a few options available to the fund - none of them very palatable."
Tony Canzoneri is recognized for making Real Estate deals possible in 2009.
Regarding 1031 tax-deferred exchanges in the real estate downturn, Tim Scott illustrates an individuals' tax basis and paying gains on losses.
On Sept. 15, 2008, Lehman Brothers became the largest company by a factor of three to file for bankruptcy protection in U.S. history. In this op-ed, Brian Olasov considers the hard-earned lessons from this past year.
Partner Mick Cochran is quoted in an article about the role private equity deals may play in the Georgia banking sector comeback.
Washington Mutual is long gone, but its lax lending could haunt us for years. Brian Olasov comments on the uncertainty ahead.
Banks face a possible liquidity crunch if the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation goes ahead with plans to drop a loan guarantee program. Brian Olasov, managing director at McKenna Long & Aldridge, said the FDIC's pullback from the loan guarantee program had been a long-anticipated step that ultimately shows the strength of the slowly recuperating financial system.
Tony Canzoneri, partner in the law firm McKenna Long & Aldridge, believes the regulators learned a lot from the earlier crash.
With commercial mortgage defaults rising and increased regulatory pressure on banks, private equity investors see a potential flood of opportunities for distressed assets in the near future. Brian Olasov discusses the marketplace.
Maggie Joslin is recognized in the Law & Accounting “Who’s Who” section of the Atlanta Business Chronicle.
Tom Abbott is quoted regarding McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP's lease at One California Plaza.
Former U.S. Congressman Paul McHale was the keynote luncheon speaker for the event. A former Assistant Secretary of Defense, McHale is now Of Counsel with the Washington, DC office of McKenna Long & Aldridge.
Partner Mick Cochran is quoted in an article about a troubled banking company looking to explore private equity options.
The number of "problem banks" in the United States reached a 15 year high, while 28.3% were unprofitable, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, which delivered a litany of painful quarterly data from the lending industry. Brian Olasov comments.
Brian Olasov comments on the FDIC's announcement Thursday there are no immediate plans to borrow money from the government to bolster its insurance fund, which has shrunk under the weight of collapsing banks.
Brian Olasov comments on the Fed's extension of the commercial mortgage-backed securities portion of the TALF program.
Many communities have been laid low by the financial crisis and housing bust, but in Malibu, Calif., it has presented a golden opportunity. Tony Canzoneri is quoted.
The Deal highlights McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP's addition of David Pollak to the firm's government affairs practice.
Three Gwinnett County CIDs are making the case for the addition of five tax allocation districts, to foster economic development in the county.
Penny Cobey is quoted regarding the new Fourth Avenue Underpass in Tuscon and the a previously undisclosed development cost of $46 million.
Steve Sorett, partner with McKenna Long & Aldridge's Government Contracts practice, is quoted regarding security risks associated with peer-to-peer software.
The FDIC is considering lowering the capital ratios that bidders for failed financial institutions would need to retain, experts told Markets Media. Brian Olasov is quoted.
Earle Taylor and the Kilpatrick public finance team left the firm and joined McKenna Long & Aldridge’s corporate practice group.
Jeff Haidet, MLA Chairman and Mike Rizzo, MLA Hiring and Professional Development Partner are quoted discussing the value of the firms merit-based promotion system for associates.
Moore's report praises subsequent actions by TVA's board of directors on July 21 to publicly acknowledge "that mistakes were made" and to accept a study more critical of management by McKenna Long and Aldridge.
Janine Bowen, a partner with McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP discusses data privacy and data security requirements in an interview conducted by Lora Bentley.
When Security Bank closed on Friday, it was Georgia’s 10th bank to fail this year. But unlike other closures in the state, Security was acquired by a group of investors, not a competitor. There may be more investors lining up to buy Georgia’s troubled banks. The Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Crystal Edmonson interviews Brian Olasov.
Richard Hankins, Labor and Employment partner, is quoted discussing labor relations.
Eric Tanenblatt, former Chief of Staff to Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue, discusses the Governor’s accomplishments and leadership skills during his tenure.
Government contracts work normally picks up in down times. But one McKenna Long & Aldridge partner tells us these are especially fruitful times. And that means the firm is hiring. Tom Abbott, who chairs the group from Los Angeles, says the firm's interviewing associates for two open positions in L.A., one in San Diego, two in Denver and two in Washington, D.C.
Todd Silliman, who has been assisting Rabun County with the acquisition and permitting of a facility for the past two years, addresses water quality concerns and emphasizes that the discharge permit the county is applying for would feature strict requirements.
Mick Cochran, partner in the Corporate practice, discusses the factors that make the timing right for investing.
The 13th and 14th bank failures in the state in the last nine months signal an acceleration of what some are considering the worst financial industry crisis in the state since the Great Depression. Brian Olasov is quoted.
Jesse Spikes is profiled in an article featuring attorneys who have been featured in the Am Law 200 who are currently running for Mayor.
Jeremy Silverman and Gary Marsh represented firm client HD Supply in its purchase of ORCO Construction Supply Inc. at auction last week.
Wayne Bradley offers his perspective on the evolving legal field, including advice to those interested in entering the profession.
Ambassador Gordon Giffin shares some of the advice he has given the newly appointed Ambassador to Canada, David Jacobson, based on his experience in the position under President Clinton.
Ambassador Gordon Giffin is quoted, supporting President Obama’s choice of David Jacobson as the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada.
Scotty Greenwood praises President Obama’s selection of David Jacobson as the new United States Ambassador to Canada.
Deals in the private sector may have dried up, but lawyers are looking to the public sector as an uptick in infrastructure projects is giving hope to the thirsty.
MLA partner, John Clerici discusses the new administration and its impact on the work load of Washington DC’s Top 200 law firms.
This article explores the often complicated relationship between agency policymakers and the contracting officers that are charged with executing agency procurements. In particular, the article explores the role of the contracting officer in maximizing the use of streamlined contracting practices under the Project BioShield Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-276).
Janine Bowen is highlighted in an article about issues relating to the future of cloud computing.
SunTrust Banks announced Friday that it would sell up to $1.25 billion in common stock and slash its dividend as part of a plan to satisfy the federal government’s order to shore up its capital buffer by $2.2 billion.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. has shelved plans to extend its program to guarantee bank bonds to 10 years after the Obama administration opposed the move, Chairman Sheila Bair said.
John Clerici, partner in the firm's Government Contracts practice, is quoted regarding stimulus funds.
Now that the results of the federal banking regulators’ stress tests of the 19 largest U.S. banks is complete, the scramble is about to begin for the 10 that need additional capital.
Detainee issues continue, of course, to remain at the forefront of the current political discourse. And Thomas Abbott, chair of McKenna’s government contracts practice, says Carter’s background makes him ideal for the job. “This is what he did for a living. He was in enforcement. He’s worked with the Iraqi police even,” says Abbott, a partner in McKenna’s Los Angeles office. “He actually understands this at a ground level.”
McKenna Long & Aldridge of the District named Elizabeth Ferrell, partner in its government contracts practice.
The Obama administration has chosen a lawyer and Iraq war veteran who has denounced U.S. detention policy to direct detainee affairs at the Department of Defense. Until starting at the Pentagon this week, Phillip E. Carter, 33, was an associate at New York’s Park Avenue law firm McKenna Long & Aldridge. He specialized in government contracting and national security regulation.
Elizabeth “Beth” Ferrell has joined the government contracts practice of McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP as a partner.
Frank M. Rapoport, chair of the Global Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnerships practice, is quoted regarding the collapse of the $2.5 billion Midway deal and the future of private funding for public-private partnerships in the United States.
Elizabeth Ferrell has joined McKenna Long & Aldridge as a partner in the firm’s government contracts practice.
John Clerici, chair of the Life Sciences and Public Health Preparedness practice, is quoted regarding vaccine development for pandemic influenza.
John Clerici, chair of the Life Sciences and Public Health Preparedness practice, is quote regarding vaccine development for the swine flu.
Atlanta-based Labor and Employment Partner Richard Hankins is quoted based on his extensive knowledge of and experience with the proposed legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). Hankins maintains "EFCA Report" (www.efcareport.com), a blog dedicated to providing news, insights, and management perspectives on the legislation and related traditional labor law issues.
Stefan Passantino is quoted in the Roll Call regarding a story alleging that Rep. Jane Harman (D-Calif.) engaged in a quid pro quo with a suspected Israeli agent to advance her stature in Congress.
McKenna Long & Aldridge of the District named Ipsita Smolinski, former J.P. Morgan Chase health-care policy analyst, senior adviser and independent consultant in its life sciences and public health preparedness practice.
Brian Olasov comments on President Barack Obama's nomination of Fannie Mae Chief Executive Officer Herb Allison to run the Treasury office overseeing the $700 billion bank rescue.
Clay Long discusses his background and the roots of his success as an attorney in Atlanta as well as his efforts to give back to a community that has given him so much.
Ipsita Smolinski, former JPMorgan Chase Healthcare Policy Analyst, has joined McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP’s (MLA) Life Sciences and Public Health Preparedness practice as a Senior Advisor. In this role, Smolinski will advise clients on policy issues and their potential impact on institutional investing.
Josh Hochberg is quoted in the National Journal regarding problems at the Public Integrity section and potential changes that could be made to address the problems.
Government Contracts partner, Jack Horan discusses the rise in bid protests, and the response of some agencies to "protest proof" their processes.
The U.S. Senate voted to prevent the budget reconciliation process from being used to push through climate change legislation. Peter Gray, chairman of the Environment, Energy and Product Regulation Department at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, is quoted on his doubts that the Democrats ever planned to use the budget reconciliation process to pass a climate bill.
Michael Cochran discusses Chapter 11 and its ease and frequency for companies or varying sizes.
Clay Long is quoted on the peregrine falcons that nest outside the firm's 51st floor offices.
The plan is rather short on details as to how the agency's goals will be achieved, but that is to be expected with such a massive paradigm shift. As Richard Canady, a toxicologist and senior adviser for McKenna Long & Aldridge, cautioned, the plan “is more intention than action.”
"When you take all these new disclosure schemes -- which are all online, which are all downloadable, which are all sortable -- the lobbyist community and their clients face a heightened risk," Stefan C. Passantino, head of the political law team at McKenna Long & Aldridge, told National Journal earlier this year.
Josh Hochberg, a former chief of the fraud section at Justice during the Bush administration and now a partner at law firm McKenna Long & Aldridge, echoes that view. "The need for white-collar enforcement dwarfs anything we've seen before." The federal government's plan to spend nearly $1.5 trillion on the economic stimulus plan and the financial bailout creates the potential for considerable fraud, Hochberg added. "The public just won't tolerate misspending of bailout money," he said, stressing that both programs need close monitoring.
“Cooperating doesn’t guarantee a free pass,” said Josh Hochberg, a lawyer with McKenna Long & Aldridge in Washington and a former fraud section chief at the U.S. Department of Justice. “It’s a complex negotiation based on what he knows and the degree of culpability.”
Investors will know an economic recovery is under way when the housing market finds price stability and foreclosures moderate.
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses the positive aspects of the Treasury's toxic asset plan, as well as potential pitfalls.
Treasury's plan for toxic assets could help thaw the marketplace by raising the prices investors can afford to pay while still generating an acceptable rate of return. However, Managing Director Brian Olasov notes that it's unclear whether the availability of federal financing will bring prices high enough to entice the banks to participate.
Dr. Jennifer Hannesschlager, managing director with MLA's Life Sciences and Public Health Preparedness practice, will serve as a featured speaker at Cambridge Healthtech Institute's Second Annual Advanced Biofuels Development Summit, to be held April 20-21, 2009 at the Marriott at Metro Center in Washington, D.C.
Josh Hochberg is interviewed on CNBC regarding the Bernie Madoff proceedings and plea.
Josh Hochberg is interviewed on MSNBC regarding the Bernie Madoff proceedings and plea.
Bill Ide named Chairman of The Conference Board Governance Center's Advisory Board.
The announcement about the availability of Form 1 and new filing instructions was published in the Federal Register, but many associations that operate PACs are likely unaware of the new reporting requirement, especially if their PAC does not engage in bundling. A new client advisory being prepared by the law firm McKenna Long & Aldridge outlines steps existing PACs need to take to ensure they have updated their Form 1 and are prepared for the publicity and criticism of the lobbying community that is likely to result from the release of the first bundling reports that will be filed by reporting committees in May.
Josh Hochberg is interviewed on Madoff's guilty plea and ponzi scheme.
With Newt Gingrich, his top client, eyeballing a possible run for president in 2012, J. Randolph "Randy" Evans plans to step down as general counsel of the state Republican Party in May. "With all of those [groups], my roles have dramatically shifted and gotten larger," said Evans, a partner at McKenna Long & Aldridge.
Josh Hochberg is interviewed on Madoff's guilty plea and ponzi scheme.
Larry Ebner is quoted on the possible impact of the Supreme Court's Wyeth decision on FIFRA preemption.
McKenna Long & Aldridge has landed Howard B. Dean III and added 17 attorneys from a Los Angeles real estate boutique to its office there.
McKenna Long & Aldridge has beefed up its real estate and litigation practices with the addition of seventeen attorneys. The large lateral group came from the small Los Angeles law firm of Brown Winfield Canzoneri Abram.
"These lawyers are a perfect fit with our existing real estate practice, and with the stimulus bill emphasizing shovel-ready infrastructure projects that require our joint expertise," MLA Chairman Jeff Haidet said.
"It would be almost impossible for the defense" to take the case to trial, said attorney Joshua Hochberg, a former head of the U.S. Justice Department's criminal fraud section and now a defense lawyer at the McKenna Long & Aldridge law firm.
Doug Farry, a managing partner at MLA in San Diego, drafted an Op-Ed for San Diego's Daily Transcript on the impact of President Obama's cyber-security strategy and how it relates to contractors who specialize in related products and services.
But changes in Congress, as well as clear signals from the Obama administration that there will be more scrutiny on government contracting, could have a shorter-term impact on San Diego defense contractors, said Doug Farry, a managing director in the San Diego office of Washington, D.C. law firm McKenna, Long & Aldridge.
Joshua Hochberg, a former head of the U.S. Justice Department's criminal fraud section, said the judgment in part enables the SEC to "get out of the line of fire," the storm of criticism over the agency's failure to uncover the alleged Madoff fraud. "Now they can let the criminal prosecutors handle the tougher task of finding out if there were co-conspirators, and where the money went," said Hochberg, a Washington, D.C.-based partner at the McKenna Long & Aldridge law firm.
The U.S. Senate is expected to pass an economic stimulus plan on Tuesday. Brian Olasov, a Managing Director at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, doesn't expect the recession to end immediately after the plan is given the nod.
"That to me indicates a warning, or a red flag, that there is going to be a federal procurement lobbying disclosure [regime] and restrictions that don't exist currently," said Stefan C. Passantino, who heads the political law team for McKenna Long & Aldridge. "And that's something that anyone involved in federal procurement is going to want to be watching and looking for."
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses the Treasury Department's plan to create incentives for private sector investment into troubled banks.
Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner is scheduled to announce his financial sector stabilization plan in a speech Tuesday morning.
Synovus Financial Corp., Georgia’s third-largest bank, has created a new subsidiary company, whose sole mission is to acquire, manage and sell foreclosed land, lots and homes from Synovus’ 31 banks across the Southeast.
The Treasury Department has set up guarantee plans for giant pools of bad assets from Citigroup and Bank of America.
When a real estate developer dropped out of a military housing project in Texas, McKenna Long & Aldridge partner G. Scott Rafshoon's client stepped into the void. Balfour Beatty Communities LLC last month closed on a $142 million deal to acquire a project to privatize housing at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.
Brian Olasov, a Managing Director at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, talks with Bloomberg's Ken Prewitt about TARP and its inability thus far to shore up the participating banks' stock prices.
Frank Rapoport, chair of the firm's Public-Private Partnerships practice, testified before the Joint Transportation Committees of the Colorado General Assembly on January 27, 2009. His testimony is included here.
But Stefan Passantino, a lawyer at McKenna Long & Aldridge, said the administration’s definition was not necessarily broad enough and could inadvertently create confusion for lower-level staffers who may technically fall outside of the document’s legal definition — and therefore, still be eligible to take up to $20 from lobbyists. “The ethics pledge and the gift ban is only applicable to ‘appointees’ — and ‘appointees’ are defined in there as a fairly senior person,” Passantino said.
The 111th Congress will march forward largely under the ethics regime enacted by the previous Congress — and that may be a good thing, according to private-sector attorneys who specialize in ethics compliance. That’s because lobbyists, corporations and even Members are still grappling with how exactly to comply with the gift rules and disclosure requirements Congress imposed last year. “Notwithstanding the fact that it is not as much in the news as it was last year, the message did get through to the private sector,” said Stefan Passantino, head of political law at McKenna Long & Aldridge. “All of those issues are still very much front of mind with the general counsels.”
Stefan Passantino, a partner at the McKenna, Long & Aldridge law firm who has represented former House Speakers Rep. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) and Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.), assessed the situation matter of factly. “Very often in Washington and in politics there are efforts to – make grand pronouncements reflecting a grand change in policy,” Passantino said. “It’s the common phenomenon of the law of good intentions running headlong into the law of unintended consequences.”
Scott Rafshoon is quoted on his client's recent $142 million deal.
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses moving problem assets off banks’ balance sheets to open the market to new capital.
What is driving this effort is the need and desire for the U.S. to be economically competitive with other countries so goods can be moved more efficiently from ports into cities, according to Frank M. Rapoport, chair of the Public Private Partnership (P3) team at McKenna, Long & Aldridge LLP, a law firm that specializes in helping business better interact with government.
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses the RTC's role in getting markets moving again after the savings-and-loan crisis in the early 1990s.
R. Todd Silliman, a partner at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, representing Georgia in the Lanier Lake case is quoted on Georgia's position in the U.S. Supreme Court appeal.
Recent quotes made by Thomas Papson to Government Executive regarding the upward trend of challenged bid awards by federal contractors are referenced in the January 9th blog entry, Government Inc., published by the Washington Post.com
National Government Contracts practice chairman, Thomas Abbott, is quoted regarding the implications of President Elect Obama's pledge to "reform federal contracting and reduce the number of contractors, saving $40 billion a year."
Mick Cochran and Trey Wainwright are highlighted for their role in the acquisition of PlayON! Sports
Washington, DC Managing Partner, Thomas Papson is quoted discussing the upward trend of bid protests filed by federal contractors in fiscal year 2008.
Ann-Marie McGaughey is profiled in Atlanta Woman Magazine as part of the firstPro Leaders in Law Series
Along with job creation, what is driving this effort is the need and desire for the U.S. to be economically competitive with other countries so goods can be moved more efficiently from ports into cities, according to Frank M. Rapoport, chair of the Public Private Partnership (P3) team at McKenna, Long & Aldridge LLP, a law firm that specializes in helping business better interact with government.
The election of Barack Obama promises a new era of eco-awareness in the US. Fred Anderson, a partner at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, is quoted on thoughts of integrating the high priority environment policy into other industries.
MedNous, printed journal and website covering advances in medicine in Europe, features an article authored by Life Sciences and Public Health Preparedness practice members, John Clerici and Jennifer Hannesschlager.
Joseph Dennin is quoted extensively on the new rules for foreign buyers under CFIUS.
Mick Cochran and Allix Magaziner are highlighted for their role in Morgan Keegan's acquisition of Burke Capital
Frank Rapoport is quoted regarding President-elect Obama's plans for infrastructure spending.
MLA advised KeyCorp's KeyBank in connection with a $100 million secured loan for DuPont Fabros Technology Inc.
McKenna Long & Aldridge named Stephen Goldsmith senior strategic adviser for its global infrastructure finance and public-private partnerships practice.
Student and home loan applications ask for far more information than the two-page request form required of banks seeking money from the government's $700 billion Troubled Asset Relief Program. However, Managing Director Brian Olasov points out there's more to the application process.
President-elect Barack Obama calls it "the largest new investment in our national infrastructure since the creation of the federal highway system in the 1950s."
Frank Rapoport is quoted discussing Obama's plans for transportation infrastructure.
SunTrust Banks is seeking an additional infusion of funds from the Treasury Department’s Capital Purchase Program. Managing Director Brian Olasov said the federal program is providing banks with a relatively inexpensive way of raising capital.
Frank Rapoport is quoted discussing Mayor Goldsmith teaming up with MLA's Global Infrastructure Finance and Public-Private Partnerships Practice.
Maggie Joslin is quoted on bond sales in DeKalb County
The Daily Report's Second Annual Law Firm Climate Change Survey confirms that there's a strong movement from the sidelines to the playing field of climate change. Peter Gray, Chair of the firm’s Environment, Energy and Product Regulation Department, is quoted saying companies are "looking at not just how to survive, but to thrive" as climate change shapes a new agenda in business, the regulatory arena and politics.
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson's announcement that the government will not buy troubled mortgage assets and instead focus on the consumer credit market.
Mick Cochran and David Brown are highlighted for their role in a transaction for client Osiris Therapeutics.
Republican Eric Tanenblatt and Democrat Keith Mason discuss what gains were made for the Democratic Party in the 2008 Election.
Eric Tanenblatt discusses the Senate runoff, saying “I think this will be a full-fledged campaign. I think we will have a flood of surrogates coming in to energize the base.” He goes on to say, however, that this will likely not create an advantage for Jim Martin’s candidacy, just as it did not in 1992 for Wyche Fowler’s.
Marcia Hale speaks positively of Rahm Emanuel, Obama’s new Chief of Staff, and credits him for sticking it out through a demotion under the Clinton administration.
Scotty Greenwood discusses the priorities of the new American president, saying there are many more issues that will be addressed before bilateral relations with Canada are brought up.
While we might all agree that the ability to cast our ballot the week before Election Day has been a convenience, our nation’s founding fathers would not be pleased with what advance voting —- in place in 34 states and involving well over half of the population —- has become. Especially in states like Georgia, which permits voting more than a full month before Election Day; or Ohio, which permits registration and same day voting, couldn’t it more aptly be called “uncontrolled voting?” In
Marcia Hale, managing director with McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, is quoted regarding Rahm Emanuel's appointment to chief of staff to President-elect Barack Obama.
Scotty Greenwood is quoted discussing Canada’s position with Barack Obama, saying Canada can sell itself to the Obama administration as the solution to U.S. “obsession” with energy security.
Gordon Giffin discusses the safety of NAFTA and some of the priorities of an Obama administration that would most affect Canadian interests.
Craig Lesser discusses the merger of Delta and Northwest Airlines, saying, “It really confirms Atlanta as a global headquarters due in large part to Delta.”
After successful vaccination campaigns throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the WHO certified the complete eradication of smallpox in December 1979. Has it been really eradicated? John Clerici, who has played a significant role in formulating President Bush’s emergency Bio-terrorism laws, addresses that question.
John Clerici discusses bioterrorism and preparedness in relation to Australia while discussing leasons learned in the U.S.
Steve Sorett, partner in the firm's Public-Private Partnerships practice, co-authors an article about addressing the infrastructure problem.
Mark Budwig is quoted discussing the redevelopment of the Navy Broadway Complex in San Diego, CA.
Managing Director Brian Olasov is quoted on the similarities and differences between the current economic financial crisis and the Great Depression.
Managing Director Brian Olasov discusses banks' upcoming third-quarter reports, which bankers and industry analysts widely expect to show further worsening of loan portfolios and balance sheets across the Atlanta metro area.
Jeff Altman is featured discussing the changes and challenges nonprofit organizations face with Form 990.
Managing Director Brian Olasov speaks with Business to Business editor Tim Darnell in a podcast about the bailout bill and the global financial crisis.
DC Office Partner Josh Hochberg is quoted concerning the likelihood of criminal prosecutions of companies being investigated for financial fraud.
Jeffrey Haidet, Tom Wardell and Stacy Ingram Highlighted in Georgia Bar Journal
The parties look the same, but the guest lists are different. That’s the effect on the Republican National Convention social scene of new ethics rules (PL 110-81) barring lobbyists from hosting events that honor specific lawmakers. “It’s one of those things now that everyone feels that they have to inoculate themselves at the outset so that the invitation won’t fall on deaf ears,” said Stefan Passantino, who served as counsel to former Republican Speakers J. Dennis Hastert of Illinois (1987-2007) and Newt Gingrich (1979-1999).
Monday’s deference to Hurricane Gustav was proper and good, but Tuesday was the day this party got started. Georgia delegates to the Republican National Convention said there is important work to do the rest of this week. Doug Chalmers, an alternate delegate from Georgia who leads a lawyers’ committee for McCain, was eager to get back to business.
PPP Bulletin features an article focusing on public-private partnerships and the U.S. port sector authored by Sotiris Pagdadis, Managing Director with McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP. As stated in the article, “While funding has gone into US ports for increased security measures they remain vulnerable to acts of terrorism. This has led to some port authorities forming PPPs to address the crisis.”
Marcia Hale is quoted in an article highlighting South Carolina's participation at the Democratic National Convention.
Gordon Giffin discusses party unity and the Democratic National Convention.
Eric Tanenblatt discusses the Republican party's ability to rally around McCain.
DC Office Partner Cass Christenson discusses how companies can properly plan and manage the discovery of electronically stored information (ESI).
Buddy Darden discusses the selection of Joe Biden as Barack Obama's running mate.
R. Todd Silliman, a partner at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, representing Georgia in the Lanier Lake case is quoted on Georgia's position in the U.S. Supreme Court appeal.
R. Todd Silliman, a partner at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP, representing Georgia in the Lanier Lake case is quoted on Georgia's position in the U.S. Supreme Court appeal.
McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP's Political Law practice is highlighted as providing counsel to House Minority Whip Roy Blunt (R-Mo.)in a Roll Call article on House legal spending fees.
Joshua Hochberg is quoted regarding the upcoming trial of Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens (R) who is accused of repeatedly filing false financial statements concealing the receipt of more than $250,000 in gifts over an eight-year period.
Mitchell, who is traveling in the Middle East this week, may need a waiver from Obama’s new policy on ethics and lobbying, which says government officials must wait two years before working on matters “directly and substantially” related to pre-government employers or clients even if they weren’t registered lobbyists, said Stefan Passantino, head of the Washington-based political law group for McKenna Long & Aldridge.




