I think your idea of an association that represents our industry and not a particular company is a great idea. Business owners want a level playing field for all including the companies we represent. The ability to win in a legal contest based on who has the most financial staying power in the legal system is wrong. That philosophy violates fairness and exploits all but the financially strong. When rules are made by companies that injure distributors there is no advocate that educates the law makers. The direct Selling Association (DSA) has lobbyist that influence lawmakers for individual companies like Amway, Avon, Marykay, etc., but the distributors do not. Thus gaps in the legal system need fixed. The individual distributor has real challenges getting sound legal advice that doesnt start off with "How much money do you have to pay legal fees to represent your interests" ? "How many years are you prepared to go into litigation before you run out of money"? At this eye opening meeting with your first attempt at a fair resolution, the distributor picks up his toys and goes home, never attempting beyond the initial interview with their lawyer, to get the fair resolution he or she deserve. The Attorney Generals for the individual states cannot battle some billion dollar companies. I live in Kansas. The total AG budget is $5.5 million. The consumer fraud department of the AG's office has a little over $1million to contest companies that have $40 million, and huge legal staffs. I am appalled at the legal system that kicks you out of your position to get justice because your check book size. The framers of our constitution would be more than out raged. The idea of an independant association for the Networking industry that is not tied to any company is a fabulous idea. Lets put a think tank together with distributors, and IBOs, and reps, from a variety of Networking companies. We dont need any companies permission to move forward on a project like this. You can count on my full support of such an important mission. Bill Newton .