There is a simple solution to your "problems" with NALTEA.  You could join and volunteer to help.  As you are unwilling to be a part of the solution - it really is unfair of you to criticize others who are trying to make a difference.

And, just to clarify... NALTEA has been working to promote the value of the abstractor and has worked to influence changes that benefit all abstractors - including those who choose to sit back and criticize them.

NALTEA has:
1. Issued a press release about the hazards of online public records.
2. Sent a reply to Forbes regarding their infamous article on title insurance.
3. Established the first national code of ethics for abstractors.
4. Attended Michigan house of representative hearings on their public records laws.
5. Held 4 informative and educational conferences around the country.
6. Spoken to representatives with Fannie Mae regarding the importance of thorough title searches by professional abstractors.
7. Spoken to a representative from Fitch Ratings about the importance of thorough title searches by professional abstractors.
8. Spoken with the American Legal and Financial Network and several of their members at their annual conferences regarding the importance of thorough title searches by professional abstractors.
9. Arranged for member discounts on products and services from 5 companies for services including marketing, software, collections, retirement planning, etc...

NALTEA is currently:
1. Finishing the first abstractor certification criteria, should be ready by the end of the year.
2. Working on an amicus brief supporting an abstractor in a suit over third-party liability in Louisiana.
3. Corresponding with the authors of The American Title Insurance Industry: How A Cartel Fleeces The American Consumer.

So, while people, such as yourself, seem content to remain on the sidelines criticizing others who are volunteering their time to do something positive, NALTEA has been an excellent representative of abstractors.  Some people just won't be happy until NALTEA starts mailing out hundred dollar bills, but that is not what a professional association does.

I think the hardworking volunteers of NALTEA have been doing a fantastic job with the little support it has gotten from those who care about the profession, despite the complaints of those who continually try to undermine their efforts.  If you don't want to join and support them, fine - but, you have NO RIGHT to belittle them. 

No one from NALTEA is standing in your way if you want to create a co-op or anything else.  NALTEA has been nothing but supportive of abstractors and they will continue to represent them in a professional manner.  Why you feel the need to attack them for it is beyond my comprehension.  If you feel you can do something good for the abstractors, ANYTHING, then do it.  For God sake, just do SOMETHING besides COMPLAIN!

Best,
Robert A. Franco
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