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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 |
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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. | ||||||||
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 | 07/20/2012 |
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
HR 4378 - Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabiliation Technology Act of 2012. Throughout the second quarter, 2012, United Spinal has been advocating on this legislation to create a separate benefit category in Medicare for coverage of complex
rehabilitation technology such as highly sophisticated, customized power mobility devices. The bill entails a broader baseline of services than those that are currently referred to under the Medicare program as durable medical equipment. HR 4378 ensures access to appropriate prodcuts and technology based on a person's functional needs in addition to their diagnosis and the severity of their injury or disorder; allows individuals to access devices that can be used outside of the home and in the community, allows individuals to work and participate in community life; and, ensuring access to local CRT suppliers equipped to make repairs and maintenance for specialized devices.
United Spinal Association wrote a letter in April to Secretary Sebelius applauding the newly created Administration for Community Living (ACL) in support of the focus on community living and urged the agency to lift the outdated rule that ties Medicare coverage of wheelchairs and other mobility assistive equipment to in-the-home use. United Spinal also met with the ACL to discuss complex rehab technology and Medicaid managed care and there will be a continuing dialogue between the Association and the ACL on these and other matters.
In April, United Spinal submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in response to the proposed information collection requirements for the Medicare prior authorization demonstration applied to coverage claims for power mobility devices. We insisted that CMS be proactive in providing guidance, in the form of guides or templates, to assist physicians and treating practitioners in filing claims and documenting medical necessity and functional limitations from the outset. In June comments to the Office of Management and Budget, we continue to urge the creation of an electronic template under this demonstration to help accelerate the delivery of necessary equipment that will enhance mobility-related activities of daily living and support the independendce of individuals with disabilities.
In April, United Spinal signed onto a letter to the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Devices and Radiological Health on the Medical Device User Fee and Modernization Act (MDUFA) agreement in principle between industry and FDA (Docket No. FDA-2010-N-0389). The letter supports the agency-industry agreements intent to do the following: significantly improve FDA review times to help speed up safe and effective treatments to patients; vastly enhance the consistency and timeliness of the approval process, helping to provide patients more information and certainty about the process; offer greater accountability and improved transparency resulting in more data points on FDAs performance; provide enhanced resources to give FDA the necessary tools for meeting new performance goals.
Medicaid Eligibility Rules
United Spinal co-signed a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities letter to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, spearheaded by the Healthcare for America Now coalition urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reconsider the provision of the final Medicaid rule (CMS-2349-F) that permits important eligibility determination functions to be contracted to private entities. Public accountability for Medicaid eligibility determinations is essential. The best way to ensure accountability is if governmental staff carries out these functions in the best interest of the public, free of bias or conflicts of interest. This has been the policy in Medicaid for decades: to change it without a process for notice and comment would be highly unusual and set a bad precedent.
Congressional Hearing on Competitive Acquisition
United Spinal Association submitted a statement for the record to the United States House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health. United Spinal urged the committee to look closely at how the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is gathering data on the impact this program has on all consumers, including people with disabilities. United Spinal Association will continue to monitor how the program is impacting consumers.
United Spinal signed onto a Coalition for Disability Health Equity letter to CMS in response to the agencys proposed rules on the agency's electronic health record incentive program. Health information technology and electronic health records have the power to collect aggregated data on people with disabilities to provide information to improve the quality of care of all people with disabilities. The incentive program offers an important opportunity to reduce health disparities and improve equity in the U.S. health care system. Reducing disparities is included in the first of the five pillars of meaningful use health outcomes policy priorities and health disparities among those with disabilities are included in HHS policies to reduce health disparities, including Healthy People 2020 and the Affordable Care Act.
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.
HR 3613: Part D Beneficairy Appeal Fairness Act which supports implementation of a fair and reasonable exceptions and appeals process under Medicare Part D coverage for seniors and people with disabilities that depend on 'specialty tier' drugs to improve or maintain their health status and function.
Support making the Medicaid Buy In program mandatory nationwide. To maintain their capacity for employment that keeps them off the Medicaid rolls, workers with disabilities often need long-term services and supports. In many states, they are able to purchase affordable Medicaid coverage for this purpose but the benefits vary. To promote the productivity and independence of workers with disabilities, Medicaid buy-in coverage should be made consistent in scope, remain affordable and offered for purchase in all states.
Request that DOL issue the Rehab Act Section 503 Final Rules governing Federal Contractor compliance with measurable affirmative action goals for recruiting, hiring and advancing workers with disabilities. Federal contractors and subcontractors account for one-fifth of all jobs in the employment marketplace. It is critical that they be held accountable to the law.
HR 1546 and S 829, the Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act which eliminates Medicare Part Bs arbitrary and unfair outpatient rehab therapy payment caps.
Advance the use of home and community-based services and supports as mandatory long-term care benefits (currently optional to the states) which are far less costly than nursing home and other facility-based care for such purposes and are currently mandatory under Medicaid. Expand managed care where feasible to higher risk, higher cost beneficiaries and those dually eligible for Medicare as well 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. Intensify efforts to reduce fraud and abuse which accounted for $12.9 billion in Medicaid improper payments in FY 2007.
Insist that Medicare restore its pre-2008 catheter policy language around individual consideration that enabled physicians to diagnose and prescribe the proper treatment based on their patients specific needs, circumstances and risk factors.
Add a new criterion for Medicare eligibility for a closed system catheter that allows automatic qualification for patients with permanent severe bladder impairments, reducing their risk of bacterial contamination which can lead to life-threatening UTIs.
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), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), 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 |
Joseph |
Isaacs |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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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
United Spinal Association has been advocating to protect the civil rights of persons with disabilities and is opposed to various pieces
of legislation including H.R. 4200, recently introduced by Rep. David Schweikert (R-5th AZ) which amends the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the U.S. Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain ADA accessibility regulations relating to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities. We also oppose
H.R. 4256, the Pool Safety and Accessibility for Everyone (Pool SAFE) Act, introduced by Rep. Rick Mulvaney (R-5th SC), directs the Attorney General to revise certain rules under Titles II and III of the ADA each requirements related to accessible means of entry to public pools. The counterpart bills in the Senate are S. 2191 and S.2186, both introduced by Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC).
United Spinal also submitted comments to the Department of Justice on its delay in implementing the final ADA pool accessibility regulations until May 21, 2012 in response to hotel owner complaints to the White House despite the fact that the intended rules were first announced in 2010. United Spinal expressed that the existing provisions for program accessibility (28 CFR 35.150) and readily achievable barrier removal (28 CFR 36.304) provide sufficient relief for entities that may not be able to immediately comply with the requirements to provide pool or spa access, especially when they more than one such facility as a property. We urged that the requirement be made effective immediately upon the close of the comment period on May 21, 2012.
United Spinal opposes the following:
H.R. 881, the ADA Notification Act of 2011, denies lawsuit in state or federal court for discrimination in public accommodations and certain private services unless the plaintiff notified defendant prior in writing, notice alleged specific facts, 90 days elapsed after notice, notified they had 90 days, notice states complaint has not been corrected.
H.R. 3356 is the ACCESS (ADA Compliance for Customer Entry to Stores and Services) Act of 2011 and denies lawsuits based on inaccessibility in public buildings unless owner/operator is provided notice and they fail to provide description of improvements or plan on how barrier will be removed.
H.R. 2032 prohibits any agency that receives funds from the government (such as DOJ) to consult with residents of DD facilities before filing lawsuits (i.e., on Olmstead violations). Residents can remove themselves from a lawsuit to remove the threat of being discharged from that facility.
United Spinal helped to craft a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities statement for the record following the hearing on the pool regulations issue held at the end of April, before the Committee on the Judiciarys Subcommittee on the Constitution entitled, Department of Justices Guidance on Access to Pools and Spas under the ADA. Also, United Spinal submitted our own statement for the record following the hearing stating that United Spinal Association strongly supports the principles of the ADA, enabling equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the areas of employment, public services, public transportation, public accommodations and communications. The law reflects hard-fought victories for civil rights and equality. We urge that the Department of Justice be permitted to move forward without further delay to make effective the requirements to provide access to polls, wading pools and spas on May 21, 2012.
United Spinal also signed on to an Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) letter to the United States House of Representatives in opposing an amendment of Representative John Carter (R-31st TX) to the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill that would prevent the Justice Department from using its funds to enforce the ADA regulations to increase access for people with disabilities to swimming pools.
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 (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).
Support ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to advance the rights of people with disabilities throughout the world.
17. House(s) of Congress and Federal agencies Check if None
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Justice - Dept of (DOJ)
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 |
Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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 INS
16. Specific lobbying issues
United Spinal Association, as part of the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, submitted a statement for the record, entitled, "Stay-at-Work and Return-to-Work Strategies: Lessons from the Private Sector" hearing which was before the Senate HELP Committee in April.
The statement emphasized the Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs as vital to our nations safety net. Recommendations for strengthening Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) include the following:
Support and strengthen programs designed to allow flexibility for people with disabilities to return to work, including programs authorized under the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA).
Provide a continued attachment to SSDI and Medicare, as long as a beneficiarys impairments last.
Revise rules for impairment-related work expenses (IRWE). CCD proposals for revising IRWE include:
Apply the current SSI blindness rule to SSDI disability claimants and beneficiaries to allow the consideration of all work expenses, not only those that are impairment-related.
Allow beneficiaries to include their health insurance premiums as Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs). This would recognize the higher costs incurred by workers with disabilities who must pay premiums for the Medicaid Buy-In or for continued Medicare after the termination of free Part A benefits.
Reinstate SSAs Title II Demonstration Authority and the Demonstration to Maintain Independence, which expired in 2005.
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security.
United Spinal Association signed onto a letter spearheaded by NDLA to support extending the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and Protection Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) for an additional 18 months. The extension of these two programs will ensure the continuity of employment support counseling services for SSA disability beneficiaries as Congress deliberates and reauthorizes the WIPA/PABSS programs.
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 deliberations of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction. Includes the submission of a letter and report to Congress and the Administration detailing the detrimental impact that adopting the chained CPI would have on veterans.
Endorsed the importance of Social Security for veterans and their families through the booklet, Social Security: Serving Those Who Serve Our Nation.
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 |
Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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
Support of the Office of Federal Compliance Contractor/Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act
United Spinal Association expressed its continuing support to the Department of Labors OFCCP to issue final regulations implementing and strengthening the compliance goals of Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act which speaks to affirmative action in federal contractor and subcontractor hiring of qualified workers with disabilities.
These contractors are estimated to be employers to about 20% of the overall U.S. workforce.
United Spinal Association signed onto a letter spearheaded by the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities supporting the Department of Labors thorough review of public comments on its proposed changes to rules implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans Adjustment Act (VEVRAA), and urged that the final revised regulations be issued as soon as possible.
Participated in discussions regarding the staff discussion draft of the Workforce Investment Act reauthorization.
HR 4227: the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 2012 which reauthorizes WIA of 1998 to strengthen investment in innovation, alignment and improvement of employment, training and education programs. The bill, introduced by Reps. John Tierney (D-6th MA), Ruben Hinojosa (D-15th TX) and George Miller (D-7th CA), would modernize Rehabilitation Act programs, promote employment in competitive integrated employment and foster post-secondary education for people with disabilities.
Reauthorization and funding of the Work Incentives Planning Assistance (WIPA) and Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS), two employment counseling programs that help SSDI beneficiaries return to work. Their funding expires June 30 and September 30, 2012 respectively.
H.R. 3086: the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act, introduced by Reps. Cliff Stearns (R-6th FL) and Tim Bishop (D-1st NY), to phase out outmoded special wage certificates under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA). These certificates allow individuals with disabilities to be employed at subminimum wage rates in sheltered settings. Advancements in vocational rehabilitation, technology, and training of workers with disabilities have contributed to dramatic growth of such workers in the national workforce and rendered the FLSA provision obsolete.
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 |
Joseph |
Isaacs |
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Alexandra |
Bennewith |
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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 ECN
16. Specific lobbying issues
United Spinal signed onto a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities letter urging the Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Committee to fully fund the Census Bureaus American Community Survey (ACS) and oppose any efforts to make the response to the survey voluntary.
The ACS provides vital economic, social, and housing data on many of our counties, cities, Congressional districts, towns, and communities that are not provided anywhere else. The ACS is particularly critical to the disability community because it was the first reliable measure of disability in the general population.
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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Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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
United Spinal Supports H.R. 5428 - The Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights
As part of the Independence through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition, United Spinal Association signed on to a letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee in support of HR 5428 - the Injured and Amputee Veterans Bill of Rights.
This bill would establish a written list of rights that all injured and amputee veterans have access to high quality orthotic and prosthetic (O&P) care. O&P care, consisting of orthopedic braces, artificial limbs, and the clinical services necessary to treat the patient, is vital to veterans who have lost limbs or have sustained injuries or disorders of the arms, legs, back and neck.
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.
Supported the Veterans Fiduciary Reform Act of 2012 (H.R. 5948).
Supported the Women Veterans and Other Health Care Improvements Act of 2012 (S. 3313).
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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Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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 MMM
16. Specific lobbying issues
United Spinal has been working with the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities as well as taking the lead with the National Disabilities Leadership Alliance on creating recommendations for Medicaid Managed Care. The disability community is extremely concerned about the fast pace at which many states are proceeding with mandatory Medicaid managed care models for people with disabilities. Recommendations include:
establishing protections for individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions, ensuring access to appropriate care and qualified providers and ensuring managed care systems do not discriminate against people with disabilities.
Discussed possible solutions for improving access to Medicaid for military families who have children with disabilities.
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)
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 |
Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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 DEF
16. Specific lobbying issues
Discussed an amendment to the House version of the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 4310) that would provide certain treatment of Autism under TRICARE.
Urged support for the Disabled Military Child Protection Act (H.R. 4329). The measure will 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, 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 |
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
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
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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Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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
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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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 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.
Discussed legislative proposal to provide funding for adaptive housing for veterans.
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
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S. SENATE, Housing & Urban Development - Dept of (HUD),
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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Joseph |
Isaacs |
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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 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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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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AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS
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FOREIGN ENTITIES
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