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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. |
Address2 | |
| 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 | 2012 |
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. | ||||||||
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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 |
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| Signature | Digitally Signed By: Paul Tobin, President and CEO, United Spinal Association |
Date | 01/22/2013 |
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
Continues to advocate on HR 4378 - Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2012. This legislation creates a separate benefit for complex rehab technology under Medicare for individuals with significant disabilities and
functional limitations.
Discussed concerns and possible solutions to prior authorization and physician documentation matters regarding the submission of medical claims for Medicare beneficiaries and people with disabilities.
Discussed concerns with the dual-eligible population regarding those who are individuals with disabilities and the availability of home and community-based services and supports.
Supports HR 3613, Part D Beneficiary Appeal Fairness Act of 2011. This legislation resolves some of the concerns surrounding high-cost prescription drug coverage in the following ways:
It would permit requests from beneficiaries for exceptions and appeals for all tiers in Medicare Part D tiers, including specialty tier drugs.
It would prohibit insurance companies from blocking a more favorable cost-sharing structure as an outcome of the exceptions and appeals process decision.
This legislation ensures that all Part D beneficiaries have access to an exceptions and appeals process if they find their medications unaffordable and prevents anyone from being at a disadvantage or subject to discrimination due to a specific condition.
Supports HR 1546 and S. 829 - Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act. This legislation would repeal the arbitrary Medicare Part B outpatient therapy caps now affecting an estimated 640,000 Medicare beneficiaries who depend on outpatient rehabiliation therapy. United Spinal advocated for lifting the cap on therapy and extending the exceptions process for beneficiaries that are in need of additional therapy and who have exceeded the cap.
Supports HR 6490 - Medicare DMEPOS Market Pricing Program Act of 2012 replaces Medicare's current competitive bidding program under Medicare with a market pricing program for durable medical equipment.
United Spinal supports changes to HHS' proposed rule entitled, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Standards Related to Essential Health Benefits, Actuarial Value, and Accreditation.
Section 1302(b) of the Affordable Care Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to define essential health benefits (EHB) which must include the following 10 benefit categories: (1) ambulatory patient services, (2) emergency services (3) hospitalization, (4) maternity and newborn care, (5) mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment, (6) prescription drugs, (7) rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices, (8) laboratory services, (9) preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management, and (10) pediatric services, including oral and vision care. Non-grandfathered plans in the individual and small group markets both inside and outside of the state insurance marketplaces, (known as the exchanges), certain Medicaid plans and other health programs must cover EHB beginning in 2014.
United Spinal supports the need for greater clarity related to nondiscrimination regulations and state mandates and for more specificity and expanded coverage regarding habilitation, mental health and prescription drug benefits. In market reform comments to CMS, United Spinal supports the need for consumer protections against discrimination and adverse selection.
Discussed possible solutions for improving access to Medicaid for military families who have children with disabilities.
Advocated with Congress on the need to protect people with disabilities from additional cuts to Medicaid.
United Spinal supports the following principles for an improved prescription drug benefit design over what currently exists under Medicare Part D: a robust formulary; required coverage for the six protected classes of drugs plus additional classes where there are unnecessary restrictions in place; appropriate oversight to the benefit; transparency on coverage and out-of-pocket costs; clear description of notice of non-coverage, appeals and exceptions process and rigorous oversight of medication utilization management tools (such as medication substitution, step therapy or quantity limits).
Under Medicaid:
Expand managed care where feasible to higher risk, higher cost beneficiaries and those dually eligible for Medicare with strict oversight and patient protections to improve care coordination and achieve efficiencies for these patients.
Restore Medicaids discount prescription drug pricing to those dually eligible for Medicare. Under the state demonstrations to integrate care for dual-eligible individuals, urge CMS to establish and fund ombudsmen for each demonstration project, who would, at a minimum, provide: 1) information and assistance in pursuing complaints and appeals, 2) negotiation and mediation, 3) case advocacy assistance interpreting law, 4) reports on patterns of non-compliance, and 5) individual case advocacy in hearings and court proceedings related to benefits.
United Spinal supports protecting Medicaid against future cuts.
United Spinal opposes cuts to Medicaid provider taxes. Provider tax reductions would result in a cost shift to the states that could cause significant problems with state Medicaid budgets and restrictions on the provision of and access to healthcare. Other sustainable ways to address Medicaid costs should be investigated.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services - Dept of (HHS), U.S. SENATE, White House Office, Defense - Dept of (DOD)
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 |
Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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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 SCI
16. Specific lobbying issues
FDAs Prescription Drug User Fee Act Patient-Focused Drug Development - this FDA initiative is being conducted to fulfill FDA performance commitments made as part of the fifth authorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA V).
This effort provides for a more systematic approach under PDUFA V for obtaining the consumer/patient perspective on the disease severity and the currently available treatments for a set of disease areas. FDA is published a preliminary list of nominated disease areas for this initiative, which currently does not include multiple sclerosis or ALS.
United Spinal provided comments on this issue requesting that FDA expand its current list of nominated disease areas to include MS, ALS, co-morbidities and related secondary conditions.
United Spinal urged the release of the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) draft guidance on the regulation of laboratory developed diagnostic tests (LDTs). We have reached a critical point in the development of advanced diagnostics at which it has become essential that FDA move this guidance forward to ensure appropriate and efficient oversight of safe and effective diagnostics.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
Food & Drug Administration (FDA), 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 |
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 INS
16. Specific lobbying issues
United Spinal supports preserving the Social Security benefit. Social Securitys disability programs are critical to people with disabilities and their families.
United Spinal is opposed to proposing linking social security benefits to a different CPI measure, the chained CPI, instead of the CPI-W (Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers) will result in a significant benefit cut for both current and future Social Security beneficiaries in the disability, retirement, and survivors programs.
United Spinal opposes the Chained Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The chained CPI would lead to lower COLAs for beneficiaries. Use of a chained CPI could have dramatic impacts on current and future Social Security beneficiaries. Beneficiaries receiving the average 2012 Disability Insurance benefit could see cuts of 2.6% after 10 years, 5.4% after 20 years, and 8.13% after 30 years.
United Spinal Association stated to the Office of Management and Budget the need of a minimum of $12.3 billion for its FY 2014 administrative funding to be able to manage increasing workloads regarding claimant hearings and disability determination services (DDS) with reduced staff.
Discussed the CHAMPVA Childrens Protection Act of 2011 (H.R. 115/S. 490). 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 leave any needed Social Security reforms out of the fiscal cliff negotiations. Includes the submission of a letter to Congress detailing the detrimental impact that adopting the chained CPI would have on veterans.
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 |
Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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Carol |
Tyson |
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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 CIV
16. Specific lobbying issues
Opposed H.R. 2032 which would limit the ability of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities who are living in intermediate care facilities to participate in certain lawsuits that would help them to live in the most integrated setting, in their communities.
Sent a letter to DOJ concerning practices related to the settlement of Federal Tort Claims Act claims brought by individuals with disabilities who have been harmed by medical malpractice.
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.
Opposed the ADA Compliance for Customer Entry to Stores and Services (ACCESS) Act (H.R. 3356).
Opposed legislation that would amend the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain accessibility regulations relating to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities (H.R. 4200).
Opposed the Pool Safety and Accessibility for Everyone (Pool SAFE) Act (H.R. 4256).
Opposed legislation that would amend the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain accessibility regulations relating to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities (S. 2191).
Opposed legislation that would amend the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain accessibility regulations relating to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities (S. 2186).
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
Justice - Dept of (DOJ), 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 TAX
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the Veterans Homebuyer Accessibility Act of 2012 (H.R. 6627) 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 DEF
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported an amendment to the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 4310) that would require all programs that receive funding from Tuition Assistance and Post-9/11 GI Bill to be "Title IV" eligible.
Supported an amendment to the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 4310) that would increase access to mental health services for veterans, servicemembers, and their families.
Supported an amendment to the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 4310) that would leverage the ability of nonprofits to assist disabled and low-income veterans with needed housing adaptations and home repairs.
Discussed S. 67 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 an amendment to the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 4310) that would provide certain types of treatment for Autism and other developmental disabilities under TRICARE.
Urged support for the Disabled Military Child Protection Act (H.R. 4329). The measure would enable military retirees who invest in a Survivor Benefit Plan to transfer their benefits to a Special Needs Trust for a child with a disability, accessible after the retiree passes away. Urged inclusion of this legislation as an amendment to the House version of the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act.
Discussed the Caring for Military Kids with Autism Act (H.R. 2288). This legislation requires the autism spectrum disorder treatment authorized for dependents in uniformed services facilities under TRICARE to include behavioral health treatment, including applied behavior analysis, when prescribed by a physician.
Supported the Military and Veterans Educational Reform Act (S. 2179). This legislation would make needed reforms to ensure that veterans and servicemembers receive the full benefit of their DoD and VA educational benefits.
Urged adoption of amendments to the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act regarding tuition assistance disclosures.
Urged removal of a provision in the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act that would remove Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs jurisdiction over TRICARE.
Urged the Department of Defense to delay implementation of an MOU between DoD and educational institutions regarding DoDs Tuition Assistance program.
Urged Congress to eliminate the offset of military Survivor Benefit Plan annuities.
Discussed potential amendment to the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act regarding special needs trusts and military Survivor Benefit Plan annuities.
Discussed a provision in the FY2012 National Defense Authorization Act to fund programs for wounded warriors.
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
Discussed the need to protect people with disabilities in negotiations of how to resolve the fiscal cliff.
Opposed amendments to the House Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bill (H.R. 5326) that would prohibit the Department of Justice from enforcing its ADA regulations relating to fixed pool lifts and the definition of a service animal and defund the American Community Survey. Discussed the Senate version of this legislation and our desire to ensure that these amendments not attach to that version.
Supported continued funding for the competitive Special Cord Injury research account in FY 2013 Defense Appropriations bills in the House (H.R. 5856) and Senate versions.
Urged Congress to provide the highest level of funding possible for the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, and Related Agencies FY 2013 appropriation.
Supported The Independent Budget for the VA budget recommendations for VA and related agencies serving veterans for FY 2012 and 2013.
Urged the Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to consider the negative impact of budget reductions on veteran specific and other programs that benefit disabled veterans before enacting cuts.
Discussed the potential impact of the budget proposal of House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan on programs for veterans and people with disabilities.
Discussed the potential impact of the deficit reduction proposals of Senator Claire McCaskill on programs that benefit veterans 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 |
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 EDU
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported the Military and Veterans Educational Reform Act (S. 2179). This legislation would make needed reforms to ensure that veterans and servicemembers receive the full benefit of their DoD and VA educational benefits.
Urged Congress and the Administration to address the treatment of our nations veterans by some for-profit educational institutions. This includes amending the 90/10 rule.
Supported the GI Bill Consumer Awareness Act of 2012 (S. 2241).
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
Veterans Affairs - Dept of (VA), U.S. SENATE, Defense - Dept of (DOD), Education - Dept of
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 VET
16. Specific lobbying issues
Urged VA to expedite housing adaptations available for disabled veterans with ALS and other terminal illnesses under chapter 21 of title 38, USC.
Supported S. 1806. This legislation would allow individuals to designate tax overpayments as contributions to a fund for homeless veterans.
Supported the Women Veterans and Other Health Care Improvements Act of 2012 (H.R. 6527). This legislation includes greater assistance through VA for veterans who have infertility issues related to their military service. This is a companion bill to the Women Veterans and Other Health Care Improvements Act of 2012 (S. 3313).
Supported the Military Service Integrity Act (S. 3372). This legislation would allow for individuals who falsely claim military service or receipt of awards for military service to be charged with a criminal violation if the claim is made to secure a tangible benefit or a personal gain.
Discussed with advocates a legislative proposal to expand the approved uses of the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Discussed with advocates a legislative amendment that would provide continuity of care for incarcerated veterans with mental health issues.
Supported the GI Bill Consumer Awareness Act of 2012 (S. 2241).
Supported the Honoring Americas Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012 (HR 1627). This omnibus legislation contains many provisions that we have advocated for including access for service dogs to VA facilities.
Discussed access to VA mental health services with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration.
Supported the Veterans I.D. Card Act (H.R. 2985). This legislation directs the Secretary of VA to issue a veteran's identification card to any veteran who requests such card and is neither entitled to military retired pay nor enrolled in the VA system of patient enrollment.
Supported the Veterans Data Breach Timely Notification Act (H.R. 3730). Requires the VA Secretary, in the event of a data breach with respect to sensitive personal information that is processed or maintained by the Secretary, to notify Congress and each individual whose sensitive personal information is involved in the data breach.
Supported the Veterans Affairs Employee Accountability Act (H.R. 4481). Directs the VA Secretary to ensure that no employee of VA who violates any civil law covered by the Federal Acquisition Regulation receives any retention incentive, payment, or award for or during the year of such violation.
Discussed the Veterans Fiduciary Reform Act of 2012 (H.R. 5948).
Supported the Mental Health Access to Continued Care and Enhancement of Support Services Act (S. 3340)
Discussed legislation that would amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to consider the resources of individuals applying for pension that were recently disposed of by the individuals for less than fair market value when determining the eligibility of such individuals for such pension, and for other purposes (S. 3270).
Supported legislation that would amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for coverage under the beneficiary travel program of the Department of Veterans Affairs of certain disabled veterans for travel for certain special disabilities rehabilitation, and for other purposes (S. 1755).
Discussed the Veteran Voting Support Act of 2011 (S. 1264). Directs 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.
Discussed with VA the long-term care benefits available to birth children of Korean and Vietnam conflict veterans who have spina bifida.
Discussed the Consolidating Veteran Employment Services for Improved Performance Act of 2012 (H.R. 4072). This legislation would consolidate programs currently carried out by DOLs Veterans Employment and Training Service in VA. It would also consolidate the disabled veterans' outreach program specialists and local veterans' employment representatives into a single provision establishing veteran employment specialists, which shall perform both tasks.
Supported the Military and Veterans Educational Reform Act (S. 2179). This legislation would make needed reforms to ensure that veterans and servicemembers receive the full benefit of their DOD and VA educational benefits.
Supported the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011 (H.R. 674/Pub. Law 112-56). This legislation includes provisions to increase employment opportunities for veterans and represents a blend of proposals that were included in H.R. 2433 and S. 951.
Discussed the Veteran Voting Support Act of 2011 (S. 1264). This legislation would require VA to provide voter registration applications and assistance in absentee voting for certain veterans.
Urged Congress and the Administration to address the treatment of our nations veterans by some for-profit educational institutions. This includes amending the 90/10 rule.
Supported the Veterans Opportunity to Work Act (H.R. 2433). This legislation would help to ensure that veterans receive the training, transition, and placement assistance they need to allow them to gain meaningful employment opportunities.
Supported the Helping Our Homeless Heroes Act (H.R. 2559). This legislation would make improvements to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) programs that assist homeless veterans and their families.
Supported the CAL Undiagnosed Diseases Research and Collaboration Network Act of 2011 (H.R. 2671). This legislation would help to track undiagnosed diseases and facilitate collaboration between physicians, researchers, and government agencies by creating a patient registry to be maintained by the National Institutes of Health.
Supported the Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act (H.R. 198). 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. Also discussed Senate companion bill (S. 1838).
Supported H.R. 2074, as amended. The amended legislation includes H.R. 198 and H.R. 1154.
Supported S. 914, as amended. The amended legislation includes S. 769, S. 411, and S. 957.
Discussed the Hiring Heroes Act of 2011 (S. 951) and the need to ensure that there are platforms for the development of internship opportunities for wounded warriors with private employers.
Supported the Helping our Homeless Veterans Act (S. 411/H.R. 1133). This legislation would allow changes to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) program to ensure that homeless veterans receive more effective case management services.
Supported the Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitative Services Improvements Act of 2011 (S. 957). This legislation would help to ensure that veterans with traumatic brain injuries receive the critical rehabilitation services needed to allow them to maximize their independence.
Supported the Housing, Employment, and Living Programs (HELP) for Veterans Act of 2011 (H.R. 117). This legislation includes provisions that 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.
Supported the Andrew Connolly Veterans Housing Act (H.R. 1671). This legislation would extend until December 31, 2016, the authority of the VA Secretary to provide adaptive housing assistance under the Temporary Residence Adaptation grant program to veterans with disabilities who are temporarily residing with family members.
Supported legislation establishing an Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights (H.R. 805). This legislation directs the VA Secretary to ensure that an Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights is printed on signage in accessible formats and displayed prominently and conspicuously in each VA prosthetics and orthotics clinic. It also requires VA employees who work at such clinics, as well as patient advocates of veterans who receive care there, to receive training on the Bill of Rights and directs the Secretary to conduct outreach to inform veterans about it.
Supported the Veterans Equal Treatment for Service Dogs Act (VETS Dogs Act) (H.R. 1154/S. 769). The VETS Dogs Act states that the VA Secretary may not prohibit the use of service dogs in VA facilities or on VA property.
Discussed the CHAMPVA Childrens Protection Act of 2011 (H.R. 115/S. 490). 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 the extended caregivers program authorized by the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act (P.L. 111-163) to include all veterans who are eligible for VA health care and meet certain needs-based criteria.
Urged Congress to expand VA home and community-based services for veterans with disabilities.
Urged Congress to increase Dependency and Indemnity Compensation benefits and to eliminate the offset of military Survivor Benefit Plan annuities.
Urged Congress to provide appropriate oversight for and resources to address the VAs benefits claims processing backlog.
Urged VA to accept the authority granted to them by states through the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to serve as a voter registration agency.
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 LBR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed efforts of the Department of Labor to address veterans unemployment.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
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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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 Housing Assistance for Veterans Act of 2012 (Haven Act) (H.R. 6381/S. 3614). This legislation will leverage the ability of nonprofits to assist disabled and low-income veterans with needed housing adaptations and home repairs. The language of the HAVEN Act was folded into H.R. 6361, the Vulnerable Veterans Housing Reform Act of 2012.
Supported the reintroduction of the Inclusive Home Design Act (H.R. 5781). This legislation would require newly constructed single-family houses and townhouses that are built with federal assistance to include a minimum standard of visitability.
Discussed improving accessibility and visitability in Department of Housing and Urban Development programs.
Supported the Helping our Homeless Veterans Act (S. 411/H.R. 1133). This legislation would allow changes to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) program to ensure that homeless veterans receive more effective case management services.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
Housing & Urban Development - Dept of (HUD), 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 HCR
16. Specific lobbying issues
Supported reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Injury Act. This is the only federal legislation that specifically assists states and other entities to develop and expand service delivery systems, and provide needed advocacy to meet the needs and protect the rights of individuals who have sustained a TBI and their families.
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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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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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 Local Flexibility for Transit Assistance Act (H.R. 3200). This legislation would allow public transportation systems to use some of their federal Urbanized Area Formula Program funds (Section 5307) to pay for operating costs, and provide this flexibility only to communities that are suffering from sudden spikes in fuel costs or high unemployment.
Supported the National Surface Transportation and Freight Policy Act (Title XII of S. 1950). This legislation would ensure a comprehensive national strategy for breaking gridlock, reducing fatality rates, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and efficiently moving goods and people while improving access, quality of life, and public health.
Discussed the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) (S. 1813) and the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act (H.R. 7). We support a final bill that will support transit and meet the specific needs of people 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 |
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
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)
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
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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 |
| 2 | 4 | 6 |