2026 AEA Annual Education Conference: Session 1

June 13th 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Session Highlights

D.C. Beat

Stay on top of the D.C. Beats that are shaping the escrow and title industry. From Capitol Hill to federal agencies, Washington, D.C. continues to set the tempo for regulatory and legislative activity impacting settlement services. This timely update will cover key developments, enforcement trends, and policy priorities that may affect escrow operations, compliance responsibilities, and business practices. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of what’s happening now, what’s gaining momentum, and how to prepare for what may be next.

Chris Kaumo

Policy Advisor, American Escrow Association

Chris Kaumo is a policy and government affairs professional who works closely with the real estate settlement industry on federal legislative and regulatory issues. He is known for helping industry professionals understand how developments in Washington, D.C. affect the title and escrow business.

He serves as a policy advisor for the American Escrow Association, where he provides members with regular updates on federal legislation, regulatory activity, and emerging policy issues impacting settlement professionals.

Before working with industry organizations, Kaumo spent years in federal policy roles on Capitol Hill. He served as a staff director and deputy staff director for committees in the U.S. House of Representatives, including work with the House Committee on Natural Resources and related subcommittees.

In those roles, he helped manage legislative strategy, oversee hearings, and advise members of Congress on complex policy matters.

Through his work with industry groups and policymakers, Kaumo focuses on helping professionals understand:

  • Federal regulatory developments
  • Congressional policy affecting real estate transactions
  • Advocacy strategies for the settlement industry
  • Emerging legislative issues that may impact escrow and title professionals

He is a frequent contributor to industry updates and presentations explaining “what’s happening in Washington” and what it means for settlement professionals.