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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 | JACKSON HEIGHTS |
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 | 2010 |
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: Paul Tobin, President and CEO, United Spinal Association |
Date | 11/01/2010 |
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
Labor-HHS-Education and Related Agencies appropriations bill-- for additional administrative funding for the Social Security Admininstration in order to reduce the tragic backlogs in Social Security disability applications and for support of many social service programs in appropriations. (continued)
As yet to be introduced legislation that may be in Budget/Appropriations or may be in another bill regarding possible terms of extending deadline for Amtrak obligation to make all stations accessible to people with disabilities past original deadline of July 26, 2010.
Supported funding for new Vocational Rehabilitation and employment programs for people with disabilities including new competitive grant program to expand supported employment for youth with disabilities as they transition from school to the workforce, Projects with Industry, Supported Employment State Grant Program, Supported Employment Extended Services for Youth Grant Program, Workforce Innovation Fund, Model Transition Program for Students with Intellectual Disabilities into Higher Education, and Agribility.
Supported inclusion of appropriate funding levels to support VA research programs in FY 2011 Military Consruction-VA Appropriations (House and Senate).
Opposed proposed cuts to Section 811 and Section 202 HUD housing programs in President's proposed budget for FY 2011 as these programs help provide affordable and accessible housing to people with disabilities.
Supported inclusion of funding in the Fiscal 2011 Defense Appropriation legislation (House and Senate) for conducting multiple sclerosis research under the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs of the Department of Defense.
Supported the inclusion of $22 million for FY 2011 to fund programs authorized by the Traumatic Brain Injury Act Amendments of 2008 under the Department of Health and Human Services and $11 million for the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research TBI Model Systems administered by the Department of Education.
Supported funding for new Agent Orange presumptive VA benefits claims as part of the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2010 (H.R. 4899).
Supported an effort for $10 million to be appropriated for Family to Family Health Information Centers for children with special health care needs.
Supported the Able Act H.R. 1205 would provide individuals with disabilities and their families with a savings instrument for specified education, medical and community-based services, including housing, transportation, employment training, and supports for their child without disqualifying that child from receipt of funds from entitlement programs which are vital in ensuring their quality of life.
Supported inclusion of funding in the Fiscal 2011 Defense Appropriation legislation (House and Senate) for conducting multiple sclerosis research under the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs of the Department of Defense.
Supported inclusion of appropriate funding levels to support VA research programs in the Fiscal 2011 Military Construction-VA Appropriations (H.R. 5822).
Supported the inclusion of $50 million in the FY 2012 budget to fund the Lifespan Respite Care Program.
Supported funding for the Easter Seals Veterans Community Reintegration Project in a sign on letter to VA Secretary Eric Shinseki.
Discussed the FY 2011 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 5822).
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), AMTRAK - Natl Railroad Passenger Corporation
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 HCR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Health care reform and issues in both health care reform and independent legislation. See following page. See also Medicare and Medicaid.
Support implementation of comprehensive health care reform legislation (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HR 3590 and Health Care & Education Reconciliation Act of 201, HR 4872) and the related goals of reducing costs, improving quality and expanding health care coverage for Americans with disabilities and chronic conditions and all Americans (including those who lack health insurance). Issues with asterisks * indicate legislation pursued both as part of health care reform and independently. Issues include:
Provide for health coverage that adequately meets the needs of people with disabilities and chronic conditions including
-- Covering durable medical equipment, prosthetics and orthotics (DMEPOS) including but not limited to power wheelchairs that meet the individual needs of people with disabilities and chronic conditions, enable them to be as independent as possible, to live in their homes and participate in their communities, and enable them to be employed without fear of losing health care/services and supports they need. This includes retaining the first month purchase option for people who have permanent or long-term need for power wheelchairs and including DMEPOS as covered in essential health insurance benefits; delaying CMS competitive bidding program; and having DMEPOS included as essential benefits in health insurance coverage.
Providing insurance market reforms, such as those included in House and/or Senate bills, that could greatly improve the lives of people with disabilities and chronic conditions by allowing increased access to health care, such as:
--Requiring health insurers to provide the same coverage, charge the same premiums and renew policies to people no matter what their disability or other pre-existing or newly acquired conditions. Currently, unless they have employer-sponsored plans, people with disabilities are often denied coverage altogether, the policies exclude needed services or the premiums are way too costly.
--Prohibiting annual and lifetime caps on coverage. People with serious injuries or conditions often quickly exceed these caps due to lengthy hospital stays and/or extensive rehabilitation
-- Requiring health insurance to cover rehabilitation and habilitative services.
-- Providing for a temporary high risk pool through which people with disabilities and other pre-existing conditions may obtain health insurance pending full implementation of health insurance market reforms.
Concerns about the proposed excise tax on medical devices -- that an excise tax on manufacturers would increase their costs which are likely to be passed on to consumers, resulting in increased costs for medical equipment for people with disabilities and chronic conditions who depend on them.
Providing for prevention and wellness including
--Developing standards for accessible medical equipment;
--Authorizing funds to establish a Prevention and Public Health Investment Fund;
--Providing for community Transformation Grants that include focus on the needs of people with disabilities;
-- Including disability status within data collection on health disparities;
-- Proving training programs for primary care providers and dentistry professionals on how to treat individuals with disabilities;
Concerns about well-intended wellness provisions that reward people for meeting health standards set by employers and insurance companies with potentially serious unintended onsequences that people with disabilities or other chronic conditions will be unable to meet the health or participation standards because of a limitation, and consequently they would have to pay more for their health coverage, including but not limited to higher deductibles, than people without disabilities or chronic conditions.
Providing for comparative effectiveness research and using the resulting information in a way that respects that what works for many people will not work for all;
Providing for home and community-based services and supports for people with disabilities and chronic conditions such as Community Living Assistance and Supports (CLASS) provisions* and the Community First ChoiceOption in health care reform.
Support increasing Medicaid elibility to a nationwide standard for those whose incomes are up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level. Since many people with disabilities have low incomes, this would extend Medicaid coverage to many people with disabilities, including childless adults.
- Support elimination of Medicare Part D coverage gap (Part D "donut hole") and immediate $250 rebate for beneficiaries
who fall into donut hole in 2010.
continued next page
Note -- Asterisk * indicates issue pursued both independently and as part of health care reform.
CLASS Act* -- S. 697/H.R. 1721 included in HR 3590 (Senate health care reform bill) and HR 3962 (House health care reform bill) . Support legislation to establish a voluntary payroll deduction insurance plan so that people with disabilities will be able to pay for assistance with activities of daily living. This would enable them to remain in their homes and off of the Medicaid program. CBO estimates that the CLASS provisions will save Medicaid $2.5 billion in the first 10 years alone.
Community Choice Act* (S. 683/H.R. 1670). Support legislation to make services in the home and community the norm under Medicaid - enabling people to stay in their homes and remain part of their communities rather than having to go into nursing homes or other institutions to receive needed services. Became Community First Choice Option in health care reform bills.
End Medicares 24-month waiting period* - S 700/HR 1708. Support legislation to end the waiting period for Medicare for people who qualify for Title II Social Security disability benefits and people with life-threatening conditions.
Comparative Effectiveness Research HR 2502/S 1213* Support legislation to create non-government independent entities to study the comparative effectiveness of treatments in health care.
Mental Illness Chronic Care Improvement (MICCI) Act, S 1136* Support legislation to facilitate access to needed medical services.
Amend the Medicare Savings Programs and the Low Income Subsidy* to align, simplify and increase income eligibility, eliminate or substantially increase asset limits, stabilize the programs and make administrative simplifications.
First month purchase option* Advocated to maintain the current ability for Medicare beneficiaries to purchase their power wheelchair in the first month of use. Both the House and Senate included language in health reform that would require a beneficiary to rent a power wheelchair for 13 months before purchase. Supported inclusion in HR 3590 and HR 3962 of provisions to exempt Class III and higher power wheel chairs from the rental period and to retain the first-month purchase option under existing law.
Community First Choice Option* would allow states to create Medicaid plans that would reverse the institutional bias in Medicaid. The option would provide a 6% increase in FMAP matching funds to states.
Supported H.R.2575 to provide parity under group health plans and group health insurance coverage in the provision of benefits for prosthetic devices and orthotics devices, components and benefits for other medical and surgical services.
Met with senior HHS officials to talk about implementation of health reform.
See also Medicare and Medicaid.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Health & Human Services - Dept of (HHS), Executive Office of the President (EOP)
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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
Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act of 2009, HR 1675, to make significant changes and improvements to the Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program and authorize a demonstration program that fulfills the promise of true community integration as envisioned by the Americans with Disabilities Act, to advance housing accessibility by filling in gaps of Fair Housing Act & Sec 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Support HR 1408 Inclusive Home Design Act which requires all newly constructed, federally assisted, single-family houses and town houses to meet minimum standards of visitability for persons with disabilities
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 INS
16. Specific lobbying issues
Community Living Assistance and Supports Act (CLASS Act) to create a national insurance program financed by voluntary payroll deductions to provide services to assist people with activities of daily living in order to stay in their homes and communities if they become disabled. People would not be required to qualify for Medicaid or go into a nursing home or other institution in order to receive benefits. In health care reform HR 3590.
Advocated for health insurance parity for coverage of prosthetic and orthotics devices, components and benefits for other medical and surgical services: under ERISA and HR 2575 for group health plans and group health insurance
Supported HR 1093 regarding fee caps to help make sure that attorneysand others representing Social Security disability claimants are paid in a timely manner and to index the allowed fees to the Cost of Living Adjustment.
H.R. 2829, the Recidivism Reduction Act to expedite reinstatement of Social Security, SSI, and Medicaid benefits for eligible individuals after incarceration
Supported HR 3325 to reauthorize through fiscal 2010 the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance program and the Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security program, both of which provide employment-related services for people with disabilities. These provisions would have expired without reauthorization.
Met with senior Senior SSA officials, as well as Senate and House staff regarding policies and possible legislation to expedite obtaining and review of medical records of disability claimants while protecting privacy rights of people with disabilities, electronic filing of disabilty applications and electronic authorizations for SSA to obtain medical records in connection with disabilities claims.
Submitted comments (in response to an SSA request) on complicated medical evidence issues when Social Security disability applicants have a co-occurring alcohol or substance use diagnosis and a serious mental illness.
Supported HR 4532 to renew SSAs demonstration authority and to make permanent a successful demonstration that enables both attorneys and non-attorneys (who meet certain qualifications) representing Social Security disability claimants to be paid reasonable fees out of retroactive benefits. This practice enables many claimants (including those with mental illnesses and conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder) to have good representation rather than to navigate the esoteric and complex application process on their own (often to be denied for procedural rather than substantive reasons).
Supported President's Budget proposal for SSA Limitation on Administrative expenses because the increased funding will help cut the backlog and delays in both the initial and hearing level disability determinations, thus providing disability benefits with less delay to people who meet SSA's strict eligibility requirements.
Asked HHS to ensure that lifetime caps are prohibited as of September 2010. Health insurance companies are arguing that they can keep lifetime caps on health insurance for up to another year.
Met with senior HHS officials to talk about the future of the CLASS Act as well as health reform implementation.
Supported the Prosthetic and Custom Orthotic Parity Act of 2010 (HR 2575/S 3220). The legislation would ensure that there that insurance provide equal coverage for prosthetics and orthotics that it does for other medical treatment.
Met with senior House and Senate Hill staff to strategize on obtaining sufficient appropriations for the Social Security Administration to reduce the backlog in disability determinations and otherwise better serve people with disabilities.
Met with senior SSA officials regarding SSAs new proposal for work incentives under SSDI and other Title II disability
Letter in support of S. 3223
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Health & Human Services - Dept of (HHS)
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 MED
16. Specific lobbying issues
Stem Cell Research Improvement Act of 2009 allows for federal funding of embryonic stem cell research provided that certain ethical requirements are met (HR 873 and S 487).
Supported the Cord Blood Education and Awareness Acts (H.R. 2107) inclusion in legislation being drafted to reauthorize the C.W. Young Cell Transplantation Program. H.R. 2107 would require uniform and medically accurate information to be developed by the Department of Health and Human Services and disseminated by maternal healthcare providers.
Supported HR 1362 for MS and Parkinsons research.
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 LBR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Employment of people with disabilities issues including anticipated legislation on the Workforce Investment Act & the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and encouraging federal government and federal contractors to live up to their obligation to be model employers of people with disabilities. Met with senior Dept of Labor officials in Office of Disability Employment Policy to discuss recommendations for employment of people with disabilities, and (cont)
with senior official of Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) regarding federal hiring of people with disabilities
See also recommendations regarding vocational rehabilitation in Budget/Appropriations.
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 MMM
16. Specific lobbying issues
See next page and see also HCR - Health Care Issues.
Medicare/Medicaid
Community Choice Act (HR 1670 and S 683) (changed to Community First Choice Option in health reform) Advocated to end the institutional bias in Medicaid. The bill would amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to provide individuals with disabilities and older Americans with equal access to community-based attendant services and supports, and for other purposes.
HR 3790 to repeal the Medicare competitive acquisition program for durable medical equipment and prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) in a budget neutral manner.
Medicare In the Home restriction (HR 3184 and S 1186) - reintroduction of legislation to reverse the CMS rule that Medicare will pay for wheelchairs only as needed in the home rather than as needed for the individual to go to medical appointments, go to the pharmacy and grocery store, attend worship services, accompany children to school and other activities, vote and otherwise be independent and participate in the community.
HR 2390, the Guidance, Understanding and Information for Dual Eligibles (GUIDE) Act to provide one-on-one counseling to people with cognitive impairments navigate and protect their rights with regard to the confusing Part D Prescription Drug Benefit Program authorized under the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003.
S 700/HR 1708 to end the waiting period for Medicare for people who qualify for Title II Social Security disability benefits and people with life-threatening conditions.
DME Competitive Bidding - Met with CMS officials to discuss implementation of the DMEPOS competitive bidding program to make the transition as easy as possible for members who are Medicare beneficiaries.
S 1630 a bill to amend Medicare to improve prescription drug coverage under Medicare part D and to amend the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to improve prescription drug coverage under private health insurance
Supported HR 3799 that would cap out of pocket prescription costs at a max of $200 per prescription and at $500 total for any group of prescriptions in Medicare Part D. For people with chronic conditions who participate in Medicare Part D the increasing costs of specialty medicines can cause hardships and make access to prescription drugs unattainable.
Supported HR 3621, the Medicare Premium Fairness Act, to protect millions of seniors and people with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits from unfair increases in their 2010 Medicare Part B premiums.
-- Advocated that Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) make Medicare Part D improvements including reassignmentof Low Income Subsity (LIS) recipients who have previously chosen Part D plans based on premium lability, curb waste of unused drugs, address the established price threshold for prescription medications to be included on the Specialty Tier i Part D plans' formularies, address the problems of co-payments and co-insurance and pricing of both specialty tier medications and all medications, create an appeals process for medications placed on specialty tiers, and study the impact of excessive cost-sharing.
-- Supported extending the moratoriumon Medicare therapy caps.
-- Worked with numerous consumer, manufacturer, and supplier groups on crafting legislation that would create a separate benefit category for complex rehab equipment under Medicare.
Opposed HR 1255, a bill that would make it more difficult for the Protection and Advocacy System to file suits on behalf of people who are confined to institutions.
See also Health.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS),
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 VET
16. Specific lobbying issues
See next page.
Discussed with House and Senate Committees on Veterans Affairs staff concerns about legislation proposed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to address the claims backlog. The proposed legislation is the Veterans Benefit Programs Improvement Act of 2010.
Urged Congress to consider methods for addressing the VA benefits claims processing backlog.
Discussed the Rating and Processing Individuals Disability (RAPID) Claims Act (H.R. 5549).
Discussed and submitted correspondence to Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs Chairman Daniel Akaka (D-HI) concerning the Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2010 (S. 3517).
Supported Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act (H.R. 1037/S. 728)includes increases for the Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance program.
Supported H.R. 1169would provide a significant increase in the VAs Specially Adapted Housing grant, the Special Home Adaptation grant, and the grant to purchase an automobile.
Supported the Veterans Training Act (H.R. 3813)would grant veterans access under the Post-9/11 GI Bill to non-degree granting training programs and schools.
Supported Surviving Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 (H.R. 2243)would replace the current rate of VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC )with a formula setting the rate of DIC at a rate equal to 55 percent of the rate paid to a veteran with a total disability rating.
Supported Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act (H.R. 775) and S. 535would eliminate the offset to the military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for families who receive VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
Supported the Improving Veterans Electronic Transition Services Act (H.R. 5225)would give veterans electronic access to their official military personnel files and require an assessment of the feasibility of using a centralized web portal to improve veterans access to benefits and records.
Supported the Severely Injured Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 (H.R. 3407)would
increase the rate of special monthly compensation available to veterans who have been severely injured and grant eligibility to veterans with traumatic brain injuries to receive aid and attendance benefits.
Supported the Homeless Veterans and Other Health Care Authorities Act of 2010 (S. 1237), which includes provisions of the Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act of 2009 (S. 1547).
Supported the End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2010 (H.R. 4810), which includes provisions of H.R. 2504, the Help Our Homeless Veterans Act (H.R. 2559), H.R. 2735, and H.R. 3906.
Supported H.R. 5014which clarifies that the health care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs constitutes minimum essential coverage for the purposes of health reform.
Supported the Compensation Owed for Mental Health Based on Activities in Theatre (COMBAT) Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2009 (H.R. 952)which would expand the definition of combat with the enemy to include active duty service in a theatre of combat operations during a period of war.
Supported the Veterans Employment Transition Act (S. 3398/H.R. 5400)which would simplify the process employers must follow to receive tax credits for hiring veterans who meet certain classifications.
Supported the Veterans Employment Transition Act (S. 3398)which would simplify the process employers must follow to receive tax credits for hiring veterans who meet certain classifications.
Discussed with House and Senate Committees on Veterans Affairs staff concerns about legislation proposed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to address the claims backlog. The proposed legislation is the Veterans Benefit Programs Improvement Act of 2010.
Urged Congress to consider methods for addressing the VA benefits claims processing backlog.
Discussed the Rating and Processing Individuals Disability (RAPID) Claims Act (H.R. 5549).
Discussed the Claims Processing Improvement Act of 2010 (S. 3517).
Supported HR 2059 to enable military personnel who have a family member with a disability to designate a special needs trust to receive military retiree and survivor benefits annuities rather than a natural person. Without this bill, if benefits are paid directly to the family member, the payments can jeopardize that persons eligibility for Social Security and Medicaid benefits.
Supported the Veterans Benefits Act of 2010 (H.R. 3219)omnibus veterans legislation that includes increases for the Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance program.
Supported the Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights (H.R. 5428).
Supported the Post-9/11 Veterans Education al Assistance Improvements Act (S. 3447/H.R. 5933)which would make needed modifications to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, including adding additional types of educational training programs for which veterans would be eligible to receive assistance.
Supported the Housing, Employment and Living Programs for Veterans Act (H.R. 5360)which would not only reform the VAs Special Home Adaptation grant program to allow veterans who meet the nationally accepted standard of legal blindness to receive assistance with critical home modification, but also increase the amount of grant funding available for this program and the Specially Adapted Housing grant program.
Submitted testimony to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity as a co-chair of the CCD Veterans Task Force regarding federal contractor compliance with affirmative action requirements concerning veterans.
Urged the Department of Veterans Affairs to accept the authority granted to them by six states through the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to serve as a voter registration agency.
Discussed the Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2009 (H.R. 4121) which includes proposed improvements to the VAs appeals process and the establishment of the Veterans Judicial Review Commission.
Discussed the Veterans' Disability Claims Efficiency Act of 2010 (H.R. 5928) which would improve the efficiency of processing certain claims for disability compensation by veterans through the use of interim disability ratings and fast track review of initial claims for benefits.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Veterans Affairs - Dept of (VA),
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
See next page
Discussed possible amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 (H.R. 5136/S. 3280) concerning benefits available under the ECHO program to military family members who have disabilities.
Supported H.R. 2059authorizes monthly annuity payments under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child who is incapable of self-support because of mental or physical incapacity.
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 TAX
16. Specific lobbying issues
Support HR 1205/S. 493, the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009 (ABLE Act). This legislation will allow individuals with disabilities to have access to the same type of savings instruments that other Americans use through the use of 401K, IRA and College Savings Account Families could establish savings accounts for specified education, medical and community-based services, including housing, transportation, employment training, and supports without jeopardizing other benefits vital to beneficiaries.
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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 CIV
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported HR 4247 and S 2860 the Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act.
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 |
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Morris |
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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 EDU
16. Specific lobbying issues
Support for the Elementary & Secondary Education Act (ESEA), also known as No Child Left Behind.Oppose a proposed policy in which a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) would be used as the primary accountability tool under ESEA for students eligible for special educations supports and services.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. SENATE, 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 |
Andrew |
Morris |
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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 COM
16. Specific lobbying issues
See next page
Supported the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2009 (H.R. 3101) and the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (S. 3304) and technical corrections (S. 3828).
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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Andrew |
Morris |
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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, 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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Andrew |
Morris |
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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.
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LOBBYIST UPDATE
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ISSUE UPDATE
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AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS
25. Add the following affiliated organization(s)
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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
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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
1 | 3 | 5 |
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