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LOBBYING REPORT |
Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 (Section 5) - All Filers Are Required to Complete This Page
2. Address
Address1 | 75-20 ASTORIA BLVD. |
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City | EAST ELMHURST |
State | NY |
Zip Code | 11370 |
Country | USA |
3. Principal place of business (if different than line 2)
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5. Senate ID# 12994-12
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6. House ID# 334210000
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TYPE OF REPORT | 8. Year | 2013 |
Q1 (1/1 - 3/31) | Q2 (4/1 - 6/30) | Q3 (7/1 - 9/30) | Q4 (10/1 - 12/31) |
9. Check if this filing amends a previously filed version of this report
10. Check if this is a Termination Report | Termination Date | |
11. No Lobbying Issue Activity |
INCOME OR EXPENSES - YOU MUST complete either Line 12 or Line 13 | |||||||||
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12. Lobbying | 13. Organizations | ||||||||
INCOME relating to lobbying activities for this reporting period was: | EXPENSE relating to lobbying activities for this reporting period were: | ||||||||
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Provide a good faith estimate, rounded to the nearest $10,000, of all lobbying related income for the client (including all payments to the registrant by any other entity for lobbying activities on behalf of the client). | 14. REPORTING Check box to indicate expense accounting method. See instructions for description of options. | ||||||||
Method A.
Reporting amounts using LDA definitions only
Method B. Reporting amounts under section 6033(b)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code Method C. Reporting amounts under section 162(e) of the Internal Revenue Code |
Signature | Digitally Signed By: Alexandra Bennewith, Vice President, Government Relations |
Date | 01/21/2014 |
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code CIV
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed with DOJ Civil Rights Division a multitude of issues related to the ability of people with disabilities to fully integrate into their communities, including access to voting.
Discussed with DOJ efforts to provide long-term services and supports to veterans in the most integrated setting.
Opposed the ADA Compliance for Customer Entry to Stores and Services (ACCESS) Act (H.R. 994).
Opposed the Pool Safety and Accessibility for Everyone (Pool SAFE) Act (H.R. 203).
Opposed the ADA Notification Act (H.R. 777).
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code TAX
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the Veterans Homebuyer Accessibility Act (H.R. 3422) which would provide tax credits for first time veteran homebuyers and for housing adaptations.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code FIR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed the need to ensure that efforts to address mental health needs as part of gun control do not create barriers for or discriminate against people with disabilities.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
White House Office
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code DEF
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported H.R. 164 which would permit former members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated as total to travel on military aircraft in the same manner and to the same extent as retired members of the Armed Forces are entitled to travel on such aircraft.
Supported the Rehabilitative Therapy Parity for Military Beneficiaries Act (H.R. 1705).
Discussed legislation that would provide certain behavioral health treatment under the TRICARE program for adults and children with developmental disabilities.
Discussed the Military Justice Improvement Act of 2013 (S. 967).
Supported the Disabled Military Child Protection Act (H.R. 2249/S. 1076).
Supported House efforts to increase DOD and VA support for Joint Centers of Excellence.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code BUD
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported The Independent Budget for the VA budget recommendations for VA and related agencies serving veterans for FY 2014 and FY 2015.
Advocated to protect social security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits and services on behalf of people with disabilities.
Supported an amendment to the Senates FY 2014 Budget Resolution that would prohibit using the chained CPI to determine the COLA for veterans and Social Security benefits.
Supported the highest funding level possible for the House and Senate versions of the Transportation and Housing and Urban Development appropriation for FY 2014.
Supported the Barber Amendment to the House Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill (H.R. 2610) which would add $1 million to the HUD VASH program.
Supported efforts to limit educational institutions use of GI Bill funds in the House and Senate versions of the Military Construction VA appropriation for FY 2014 (H.R. 2216).
Supported efforts to limit educational institutions use of DODs Tuition Assistance Program and MyCAA funds and level fund spinal cord injury research in the House and Senate versions of the Defense appropriation for FY 2014.
Discussed the FY 2014 National Defense Authorization Act and related amendments (H.R. 1960/H.R. 3304/S. 1197).
FY2014 budget appropriations letter U.S Congress requesting funding for programs that matter most to people with disabilities: ADA compliance, paratransit, technical assistance, and programs that increase access to transportation options.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code INS
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the CHAMPVA Childrens Protection Act (H.R. 288/S. 325). This legislation increases from 23 to 26 the maximum age of eligibility for certain dependent children of veterans for medical care under CHAMPVA (the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs).
Supported an amendment to the Senates FY 2014 Budget Resolution that would prohibit using the chained CPI to determine the COLA for veterans and Social Security benefits.
Supported Senate Concurrent Resolution 15 which expresses the sense of Congress that the Chained CPI should not be used to calculate COLAs for Social Security or veterans benefits.
Achieving a Better Life Experiecne Act of 203 (ABLE Act) - HR 647/S. 313
adjusts the Internal Revenue Code to establish tax-exempt ABLE accounts to assist people with disabilities save private funds to pay for education, housing, transportation, employment support and other personal support expenses.
Special Needs Trust Fairness Act, H.R. 2123 - The bill rewrites statute to state that individuals with disabilities are allowed to set up and administer their own trusts.
United Spinal supports S. 308/Protecting and Preserving Social Security Act; and S. 567 /H.R. 3118 Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013, all of which would increase cost-of-living adjustments.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code VET
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed S. 1584 which would provide replacement automobiles for certain disabled veterans and servicemembers.
Supported H.R. 3508 which would clarify qualifications of hearing aid specialist of the VHA.
Discussed with VAs Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service standards for installation of adaptive auto equipment paid for by VA.
Discussed legislation to provide a presumption of service connection for mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma.
Discussed legislation regarding telework for certain VA employees.
Discussed H.R. 2088 which would direct VA to carry out a pilot program to establish claims adjudication centers of excellence.
Supported the Support our Services to Veterans Caregivers (SOS Veterans Caregivers) Act (H.R. 3672).
Supported the Protecting Those Who Protected Us Act of 2013 (S. 1564).
Discussed H.R. 2726 which would authorize VA to enter into contracts and agreements for the transfer of veterans to non-VA medical foster homes for certain veterans who are unable to live independently.
Discussed the Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act (H.R. 1980).
Supported House efforts to increase DOD and VA support for Joint Centers of Excellence.
Supported the Homeless Veterans Assistance Fund Act of 2013 (H.R. 2797).
Supported the Veterans Independent Living Enhancement Act (H.R. 3330).
Discussed the Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2013, as amended (S. 944).
Discussed the Access to Appropriate Immunizations for Veterans Act of 2013 (S. 1165).
Discussed the Improving the Lives of Children with Spina Bifida Act (S. 832).
Supported the Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act (H.R. 569).
Supported the American Heroes COLA Act (H.R. 570).
Supported the Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act (H.R. 602).
Supported the Ruth Moore Act of 2013 (H.R. 671).
Supported the Honor Americas Guard-Reserve Retirees Act (H.R. 679).
Supported the VA Claims, Operations, and Records Efficiency Act (H.R. 1729).
Discussed the Ending VA Claims Disability Backlog and Accountability Act (H.R. 2138).
Supported the World War II Merchant Mariner Service Act (H.R. 1288).
Supported the Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act (H.R. 1494).
Discussed the VA Claims Efficiency Through Information Act (H.R. 1623).
Supported the Pay As You Rate Act (H.R. 2086).
Supported H.R. 1809 which would require VA to provide notice of average times for processing claims and percentage of claims approved.
Supported the Prioritizing Urgent Claims for Veterans Act (H.R. 2382).
Supported the Disabled Veterans Access to Medical Exams Improvement Act (H.R. 2423).
Supported the Putting Veterans Funding First Act of 2013 (H.R. 813/S. 932).
Discussed the Veterans Pension Protection Act (H.R. 2341).
Opposed the Access to Veterans Benefits Improvement Act (H.R. 733).
Supported the Wounded Warrior Workforce Enhancement Act (S. 522).
Supported the Veterans Affairs Research Transparency Act (S. 877).
Supported legislation authorizing VA to transport individuals to and from VA facilities in connection with rehabilitation, counseling, examination, treatment, and care (H.R. 1702/S. 455).
Supported the Caregivers Expansion and Improvement Act of 2013 (H.R. 3383/S. 851).
Supported (H.R. 1284/S. 633) which would provide coverage under the beneficiary travel program of VA of certain disabled veterans for travel in connection with certain special disabilities rehabilitation.
Supported H.R. 1405 which would require VA to include an appeals form in any notice of decision issued for the denial of a benefit.
Discussed H.R. 2189 which would establish a commission or task force to evaluate the backlog of disability claims.
Supported the Servicemembers Choice in Transition Act of 2013 (H.R. 631/S. 889) and recommended an amendment that would ensure inclusion of information about disability related protections for disabled veterans seeking employment and/or education opportunities. This provision is now part of H.R. 357.
Discussed reforming the VAs claims process to ensure that it is veteran-centered.
Urged VA to expedite housing adaptations available for disabled veterans with ALS and other terminal illnesses under chapter 21 of title 38, USC.
Supported the Women Veterans and Other Health Care Improvements Act of 2013 (S. 131/H.R. 958). This legislation includes greater assistance through VA for veterans who have infertility issues related to their military service.
Discussed with advocates a legislative proposal to expand the approved uses of the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Discussed access to VA mental health services with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration.
Discussed the VetSuccess Enhancement Act (H.R. 844). This legislation would extend from 12 to 17 years the authorized period for an eligible veteran to receive vocational training and rehabilitation from VA.
Discussed H.R. 894 which would reform VAs fiduciary program.
Discussed the Reducing Barriers to Veterans Benefits Act (H.R. 369).
Discussed the Veteran Voting Support Act that would direct the VA Secretary to provide mail voter registration application forms to each veteran who: (1) seeks to enroll in VA health care system at the time of such enrollment; and (2) is already enrolled in such system when there is a change in the veteran's enrollment status or when there is a change in the veteran's address.
Supported the Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act (H.R. 183). This legislation would direct the VA Secretary to carry out a pilot program for assessing the effectiveness of addressing post-deployment mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms through a therapeutic medium of service dog training and handling for veterans with disabilities.
Supported the CHAMPVA Childrens Protection Act (H.R. 288/S. 325). This legislation increases from 23 to 26 the maximum age of eligibility for certain dependent children of veterans for medical care under CHAMPVA (the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs [VA]).
Urged Congress to expand VA home and community-based services for veterans with disabilities.
Urged Congress to provide appropriate oversight for and resources to address the VAs benefits claims processing backlog.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Christopher |
Neiweem |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code MMM
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed possible solutions for improving access to Medicaid for military families who have children with disabilities.
HR 942/S. 948 - Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2013
Creates a separate benefit category under Medicare for CRT, protecting access to these customized products so that people living with significant disabilities, including MS, can remain independent and address their medical needs.
Advocate for improved benefits and services under Medicare and Medicaid for people with disabilities.
Supports HR 1717 - The Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act of 2013/HR 1717 will replace the poorly designed bidding program at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a market pricing program to ensure that access to quality equipment and services is protected.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
Defense - Dept of (DOD), Health & Human Services - Dept of (HHS), U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code LBR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed efforts to ensure that disabled veterans have information regarding disability rights and protections in seeking employment and education opportunities.
Discussed elimination of subminimum wage for people with disabilities that is authorized by section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act, including the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act of 2013 (H.R. 831).
Submitted testimony to the House Committee on Education and Workforce, Subcommittee on Workforce Protections regarding the VEVRAA and Section 503 final regulations.
Workforce Investment Act - reauthorization.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Labor - Dept of (DOL)
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code MED
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the CAL Undiagnosed Diseases Research and Collaboration Network Act of 2013 (H.R. 1591).
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code HOU
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the Eleanor Smith Inclusive Home Design Act (H.R. 2352).
Supported the Housing Assistance for Veterans Act of 2013 (Haven Act) (H.R. 385/H.R. 3743/S. 1387). This legislation will leverage the ability of nonprofits to assist disabled and low-income veterans with needed housing adaptations and home repairs.
Discussed the Homes for Heroes Act of 2013 (H.R. 384/H.R. 386).
Discussed improving accessibility and visitability in Department of Housing and Urban Development programs.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Christopher |
Neiweem |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code FOR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Christopher |
Neiweem |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code TRA
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed potential modifications to the Air Carriers Access Act to allow a private right of action.
Discussed the Transportation for Heroes Act of 2013 (H.R. 2362).
Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Act (HR 3494 and S 1708) - which would require the DOT to set a non-motorized safety performance measure.
Discussed "New Opportunities for Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Financing Act (NOBPIFA)" - a bill yet to be introduced which would include funding for projects to achieve compliance with the ADA
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
LOBBYING ACTIVITY. Select as many codes as necessary to reflect the general issue areas in which the registrant engaged in lobbying on behalf of the client during the reporting period. Using a separate page for each code, provide information as requested. Add additional page(s) as needed.
15. General issue area code EDU
16. Specific lobbying issues
Opposed the Academic Freedom Through Regulatory Relief Act (H.R. 2637).
Advocate for the TEACH Act (Technology, Equality, and Accessibility in College and Higher Education Act, HR 3505), the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and requests for increased funding of state assistive technology programs.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE
18. Name of each individual who acted as a lobbyist in this issue area
First Name | Last Name | Suffix | Covered Official Position (if applicable) | New |
Heather |
Ansley |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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19. Interest of each foreign entity in the specific issues listed on line 16 above Check if None
Information Update Page - Complete ONLY where registration information has changed.
20. Client new address
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22. New General description of client’s business or activities
LOBBYIST UPDATE
23. Name of each previously reported individual who is no longer expected to act as a lobbyist for the client
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ISSUE UPDATE
24. General lobbying issue that no longer pertains
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AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS
25. Add the following affiliated organization(s)
Internet Address:
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26. Name of each previously reported organization that is no longer affiliated with the registrant or client
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FOREIGN ENTITIES
27. Add the following foreign entities:
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28. Name of each previously reported foreign entity that no longer owns, or controls, or is affiliated with the registrant, client or affiliated organization
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