While full implementation of the Affordable Care Act is delayed, that doesn’t give businesses a reason to delay in preparing, according to Ross Pendergraft of USI Insurance. USI will present a panel discussion on coming healthcare changes at the next VIA Keynote Luncheon, Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 11:30 a.m. at the Valencia Country Club.

“We want to clarify the role of the employer and how they should look at healthcare going forward,” Pendergraft said.

He said the panel will include top industry experts, weighing in on changes businesses should start making now, and policies of which business owners need to be aware. Panelists include: Mark Wilbue, Employers Group; Karen Kirkpatrick, Infinisource; Chris Patton, V.P., Covered California; and Stephen J. Landsman, Squar, Milner, Peterson, Miranda and Williamson, LLP.

“With so many small businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, it is vital to prepare now for the changes coming to healthcare,” said Kathy Norris, president and CEO of VIA. “Business owners have a lot of questions about how they and their employees will be affected, and I believe this panel will have some solid answers.”

Reservations are required for the luncheon. Members who reserve by Sept. 5 pay $40, or $45 between Sept. 6-12. After Sept. 12, the cost is $50. The cost for non-members is $65. “No shows” or cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will be billed. There is a $10 surcharge for attendees without a reservation. The Valencia Country Club is located at 27330 N. Tourney Road.

The luncheon is sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita, Poole and Shaffery, L/B/W Insurance and Financial Services, Inc., Mellady Direct Marketing, SCVTV, KHTS AM-1220 and The Signal. Reservations can be made by visiting www.VIA.org/Calendar or calling the VIA office at (661) 294-8088.

The Valley Industry Association of Santa Clarita represents business interests throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, providing members the opportunity to network and collaborate on a broad range of business issues. More information about VIA is available at www.via.org.