[EstGift] Estate and Gift Tax Subcommittees

[Mickey Davis]

First, let me say how gratified I am that merely proposing subcommittees has given rise to such a broad measure of participation. The topic has generated a number of comments, and I appreciate the input and people's willingness to get involved.

Second, let me remind everyone that the subcommittee idea is still in the design phase.  The responses that I have received have been overwhelmingly positive, which tells me that we are moving in the right direction.  At the same time, I acknowledge that subcommittees can have their shortcomings.  The challenge will be to maximize the benefits while dealing with the limitations.

A number of people have suggested new subcommittees or combinations of subcommittees (e.g., life insurance, decanting, string statutes, etc.). Coming up with a comprehensive but manageable number of groups is a priority.  I'll provide an updated list soon.

Some have noted that they prefer not to have break-out sessions during the meeting.  As some of you have observed, my original e-mail did not mention break-out sessions.  Other committees have used break-outs as a way to facilitate discussion, and have invited visitors to attend the break-out session of their choice.  With committee meetings being shortened from 3 to 2 ½ hours, I believe break-outs would prove to be more of a challenge.  At the same time, there needs to be a forum for subcommittees to operate so that one or two members don't end up doing all of the work (or dominating the discussion)-Remember, this is a committee.  We should also encourage visitor participation at the subcommittee level if they are interested. I have some ideas about how to balance all of that, and will let you know my thoughts and ask for more input when I finish running some traps.

One of the Chair's jobs is to set the agenda. I expect that not all subcommittees will have something to report at every meeting. Naturally, I am hopeful that subcommittees will be clamoring for time on the agenda, and I'll have to work to allocate time fairly, sometimes deferring reports if necessary. I want to leave time for people not only to hear a subcommittee's report, but also time for committee members and visitors to comment on it and add their insights.

As my first e-mail noted, my goal is to broaden participation. I simply find that I get more from meetings (and have more fun!) when I get to hear lots of points of view, as well as the thoughts of people immersed in a topic.  A shift from a presentation format to a discussion format allows more ideas to percolate, and I think everyone benefits from being in that environment.

Thanks and I look forward to continued discussions.

Mickey R. Davis
Davis & Willms, PLLC
3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 1250
Houston, Texas 77027
(281) 786-4502 voice
(281) 742-2600 fax
mickey at daviswillms.com<mailto:mickey at daviswillms.com>

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