BIAA September 11, 2009 Update
The Brain Injury Association of America asks me to pass this update on.
*BIAA would like to take a moment to remember Senator Ted Kennedy and the profound influence he had on the brain injury community, by acting as the sponsor and champion of the TBI Act for many years. He will be missed.
Health Care Reform Update
President Obama made it clear Wednesday evening in a joint session speech that he is demanding health care reform action this year. With the spark given by the President's address, Democrats are enthusiastically working to find a way past their differences over such issues as inclusion of a public insurance option.
This week, the Senate Finance Committee released an outline of their proposal that is set to be made public next week. BIAA has some concerns about the proposal and is contacting members of the committee to ensure comprehensive coverage in the full proposal. The Committee plans to mark up a bill the week of Sept. 21, 2009.
The House may vote on its bill in the coming weeks, though debate continues over what kind of public option it will contain.
Stay tuned for action alerts as legislation progresses!
Brain Injury Survivor Advocacy Program
In August, BIAA launched a pilot program dedicated to encouraging area brain injury survivors to become more effective self-advocates. The program included identifying likely targets, making appointments, participating in a day of meetings in Capitol Hill, and following up and maintaining relationships with Congressional staffters.
Due to the success of the program, BIAA will continue to offer the opportunity on a quarterly basis to survivors who would like to learn more about advocacy. Space is limited, so if you would like to participate and you live in the Washington, DC area, please send me an email so that I can begin assembling the next advocacy group.
Appropriations Update
With energy legislation delayed and the future of a health care overhaul uncertain, Senate appropriators will try to take advantage of a window of opportunity to pass and clear as many spending bills as possible in September. (CQ)
If Congress is unable complete all 12 fiscal 2010 bills before the next fiscal year begins Oct. 1, 2009, lawmakers will have to pass a continuing resolution later this month to keep money flowing to the government.
