California Associations Merge for Stronger Collective Voice

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The California Independent Oil Marketers Association (CIOMA) is merging with the California Service Station and Automotive Repair Association (CSSARA) to strengthen the state's petroleum marketing and retail voice.

For decades, CIOMA and CSSARA have independently provided members with legislative and regulatory advocacy at the state level.

"In an effort to better serve our members, both boards recognized the importance of coming together to fight for the preservation of small business in California," said Reed Rinehart, 2012 CIOMA President. "There are so many synergies between our organizations -- goals, mission statement and vision -- becoming a united front just makes sense."

The combined entity will operate under the CIOMA brand. CIOMA will manage the overall day-to-day operations of CSSARA, including government relations, membership services, events and education. CIOMA is in the process of reaching out to CSSARA members with a comprehensive member services program: employee benefits, workers' compensation, property liability insurance and credit card processing.

"The challenges that small businesses face like out-of-control taxes, mandates and fees, runaway health insurance costs, and the constant needs for capital and other resources are increasing constantly," said David Sahagun, past president of CSSARA. "…We considered the best ways to address these same small business challenges, assuring that our membership was provided with quality representation, services and a viable networking structure. We found a relationship with CIOMA as the best possible solution. We look forward to a smooth transition and an exciting future."

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