Transition to Independence Act

H.R.927 - Keeping All Students Safe Act H.R.2646 - Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act H.R.2624/S. 1488 - Part D Beneficiary Appeals Fairness H.R.1211/S. 1588 - Mental Health in Schools Act of 2015 H.R.3060 - Stop Child Abuse in Residential Programs for Teens Act H.R.4977 - COVER Act H. 6 - 21st Century Cures Act H.R.1859/S. 2782 - Ensuring Children's Access to Specialty Care Act H.R.2555 - Veteran Wellness Act S. 473 - Saving Our Next Generation Act S. 841 - Prioritizing Veterans Access to Mental Health Care H.R.2632/S.1494 - Children's Recovery from Trauma Act H.R.938/S. 1299 - Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act Reauthorization of 2015 H.R.5 - Student Success Act S.1177 - Every Child Achieves Act of 2015 S. 1893 - Mental Health Awareness & Improvement Act H.R. 670 - The Special Needs Trust Fairness Act S. 1865 - Anna Westin Act S. 524/H.R.953: Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2015 H.R. 2994: Safer Communities Act of 2015 H.R.1006 - Building a Health Care Workforce for the Future Act H.R.3285 - Reducing Disparities Using Care Models and Education Act of 2015 H.R. 3020 - Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2016 H.R.3640 - Mental Health Awareness Semipostal Stamp Act S.2012 - Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 - support an amendment funding lead poisoning research H.R.4276/S. 2647 - Behavioral Health Coverage Transparency Act of 2015 - support S.2680 - Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 - recommendations to improve coordination and children's health H.R.3660 - To amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 respecting the scoring of preventive health savings. - support S. 2685/H.R.4374 - Mental Health on Campus Improvement Act - support S. 2787S - States Achieve Medicaid Expansion Act of 2016 - Support H.R. 5234 - The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act of 2016 - Support S.3130 - Independence at Home Act of 2016 - Support S.2848 - Water Resources Development Act of 2016 - Support funding for lead exposure supports H.R. 5330: Peer-Support Specialist Act of 2016 - supported H.R.5100 - At-Risk Youth Medicaid Protection Act of 2016 - Supported S. 2691: Integrating Behavioral Health Through Technology Act of 2016 - Supported S.3130 - Independence at Home Act of 2016 - supported S.1604/H.R.5903 - Transition to Independence Act - supported

Client expense: $7,558 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Administration for Children & Families (ACF), Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ), Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, Government Accountability Office (GAO), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Justice, Dept of (DOJ), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), Office of Natl Drug Control Policy (NDCP), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues; increased FY 2017 appropriations for the NIH and FDA; newborn screening; and reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA). H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; H.R. 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015; S. 2702/H.R. 4795, ABLE to Work Act; S. 2703/H.R. 4794, ABLE Financial Planning Act; S. 2704/H.R. 4813, ABLE Age Adjustment Act; S. 2904/H.R. 5103, ALS Disability Insurance Act

Client expense: $70,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Executive Office of the President (EOP), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE, Transportation, Dept of (DOT)

Transition to Independence Act (S.1604) creates a five year transition to independence medicaid buy in demonstration program. Complex Rehabilitation Technology Acts (S. 1013) (H.R. 1516) amend Medicare to cover complex rehabilitation technology that is designed to meet an individuals medical, physical, functional and capacity for activities for daily living. Lifespan Respite Care Act (H.R. 3248) increases the availability and coordination of respite care services for family caregivers of individuals with disabilities, regardless of age. Disability Integration Act of 2015 (S.2427) amends state and local governments plans to house people with disabilities in defined living spaces. Special Needs Trust Fairness Act of 2015 (H.R. 670) (S.349) Disability Community Support for Protecting Patient Access to Durable Medical Equipment of 2016 (H.R. 5210)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

Transition to Independence Act, S.1604/H.R. 5903 21st Century CURES Act, H.R. 6 Mental Health Reform Act, S. 2680

Client expense: $27,206 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

H.R.927 - Keeping All Students Safe Act H.R.2646 - Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act H.R.2624/S. 1488 - Part D Beneficiary Appeals Fairness H.R.1211/S. 1588 - Mental Health in Schools Act of 2015 H.R.3060 - Stop Child Abuse in Residential Programs for Teens Act H.R.4977 - COVER Act H. 6 - 21st Century Cures Act H.R.1859/S. 2782 - Ensuring Children's Access to Specialty Care Act H.R.2555 - Veteran Wellness Act S. 473 - Saving Our Next Generation Act S. 841 - Prioritizing Veterans Access to Mental Health Care H.R.2632/S.1494 - Children's Recovery from Trauma Act H.R.938/S. 1299 - Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act Reauthorization of 2015 H.R.5 - Student Success Act S.1177 - Every Child Achieves Act of 2015 S. 1893 - Mental Health Awareness & Improvement Act H.R. 670 - The Special Needs Trust Fairness Act S. 1865 - Anna Westin Act S. 524/H.R.953: Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2015 H.R. 2994: Safer Communities Act of 2015 H.R.1006 - Building a Health Care Workforce for the Future Act H.R.3285 - Reducing Disparities Using Care Models and Education Act of 2015 H.R. 3020 - Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2016 H.R.3640 - Mental Health Awareness Semipostal Stamp Act S.2012 - Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 - support an amendment funding lead poisoning research H.R.4276/S. 2647 - Behavioral Health Coverage Transparency Act of 2015 - support S.2680 - Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 - recommendations to improve coordination and children's health H.R.3660 - To amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 respecting the scoring of preventive health savings. - support S. 2685/H.R.4374 - Mental Health on Campus Improvement Act - support S. 2787S - States Achieve Medicaid Expansion Act of 2016 - Support H.R. 5234 - The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act of 2016 - Support S.3130 - Independence at Home Act of 2016 - Support S.2848 - Water Resources Development Act of 2016 - Support funding for lead exposure supports H.R. 5330: Peer-Support Specialist Act of 2016 - supported H.R.5100 - At-Risk Youth Medicaid Protection Act of 2016 - Supported S. 2691: Integrating Behavioral Health Through Technology Act of 2016 - Supported S.3130 - Independence at Home Act of 2016 - supported S.1604/H.R.5903 - Transition to Independence Act - supported

H.R.927 - Keeping All Students Safe Act - Support H.R.2646 - Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act - Encouraging more on mental health in schools H.R.1211/S. 1588 - Mental Health in Schools Act of 2015 - Support S. 473 - Saving Our Next Generation Act - Focusing more on mental health and schools H.R.2632/S.1494 - Children's Recovery from Trauma Act - Support H.R.938/S. 1299 - Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act Reauthorization of 2015 - Support S.1177 - Every Child Achieves Act - Supporting foster care/community school provisions H.R.5 - Student Success Act - Supporting foster care/community school provisions H.R. 3221 - The Homeless and Foster Youth Achievement Act - Support S.256 - Homeless Children and Youth Act of 2015 - Support S.262 - Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act - Support S. 1893 - Mental Health Awareness & Improvement Act - Support H.R.1006 - Building a Health Care Workforce for the Future Act - Inrcreasing mental health focus H.R.3285 - Reducing Disparities Using Care Models and Education Act of 2015 - Inrcreasing mental health focus S.1177 - Every Student Succeeds Act - mental health services portions H.R.4374/S. 2685 - Mental Health on Campus Improvement Act - support S.1604/H.R.5903 - Transition to Independence Act

Client expense: $7,558 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Administration for Children & Families (ACF), Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ), Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, Government Accountability Office (GAO), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Justice, Dept of (DOJ), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), Office of Natl Drug Control Policy (NDCP), SENATE, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts, including per capita caps and block grants. Importing Medicare Affordability, Enrollment, Notification (S. 3371, H.R. 6109, H.R. 5772) Independence at Home Act (S. 3130) Improving Medicaid care coordination for medically complex children (H.R. 546, S. 298) Local Coverage Determination Act (H.R. 5721) Implementation of and improving the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192 HCBS Settings Rule S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. H.R. 5903 ABLE Age Adjustment Act, S. 2704 and H.R. 4813 ABLE Financial Planning Act, S. 2703 and H.R. 4794 ABLE to Work Act, S. 2702 and H.R. 4795 Money Follows the Person Program Extension

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased FY 2017 appropriations for the NIH, FDA, and newborn screening. H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; H.R. 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015; S. 2702/H.R. 4795, ABLE to Work Act; S. 2703/H.R. 4794, ABLE Financial Planning Act; S. 2704/H.R. 4813, ABLE Age Adjustment Act; S. 2904/H.R. 5103, ALS Disability Insurance Act

Client expense: $80,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE, Transportation, Dept of (DOT)

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts, including per capita caps and block grants. Expansion of Medicare benefits to include dental, vision, and hearing (H.R. 5396) Improving Medicaid care coordination for medically complex children (H.R. 546, S. 298) Implementation of and improving the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192 HCBS Settings Rule S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. ABLE Age Adjustment Act, S. 2704 and H.R. 4813 ABLE Financial Planning Act, S. 2703 and H.R. 4794 ABLE to Work Act, S. 2702 and H.R. 4795

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

Transition to Independence Act (S.1604) creates a five year transition to independence medicaid buy in demonstration program. Complex Rehabilitation Technology Acts (S. 1013) (H.R. 1516) amend Medicare to cover complex rehabilitation technology that is designed to meet an individuals medical, physical, functional and capacity for activities for daily living. Lifespan Respite Care Act (H.R. 3248) increases the availability and coordination of respite care services for family caregivers of individuals with disabilities, regardless of age. Disability Integration Act of 2015 (S.2427) amends state and local governments plans to house people with disabilities in defined living spaces. Special Needs Trust Fairness Act of 2015 (H.R. 670) (S.349) Disability Community Support for Protecting Patient Access to Durable Medical Equipment of 2016 (H.R. 5210)

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), SENATE

Transition to Independence Act, S. 1604 and H.R. 5903 RAISE Family Caregivers Act, H.R. 3099 Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act, H.R 3913 Older Americans Act, S. 192 and House version Improving Access to Medicare Act, H.R. 1571 21st Century CURES Act, H.R. 6 Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, H.R. 2646 Accelerating Individuals into the Workplace Act, H.R. 2990 ABLE to Work Act, H.R. 4795 and S. 2702 ABLE Age Adjustment Act, H.R. 4813 an S. 2704 ABLE Financing Planning Act, H.R. 4794 and S. 2703 Mental Health Reform Act, S. 2680 Medicaid CARE Act, S. 2605 Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, S. 524

Client expense: $19,436 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased FY 2017 appropriations for the NIH and for FDA. H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 1597, Patient-Focused Impact Assessment Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; HR 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015

Client expense: $70,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE, Transportation, Dept of (DOT)

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts. Preservation of Medicare and improving care for people with chronic health conditions. Implementation of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192 HCBS Settings Rule S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. Money Follows the Person Program. ABLE Age Adjustment Act, S. 2704 and H.R. 4813 ABLE Financial Planning Act, S. 2703 and H.R. 4794 ABLE to Work Act, S. 2702 and H.R. 4795

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

Transition to Independence Act (S.1604) creates a five year transition to independence medicaid buy in demonstration program. Complex Rehabilitation Technology Acts (S. 1013) (H.R. 1516) amend Medicare to cover complex rehabilitation technology that is designed to meet an individuals medical, physical, functional and capacity for activities for daily living. Able Act (H.R. 647) (S. 313) encourages and assists individuals with disabilities and their families to be able to save funds for maintaining their health, independence and quality of life. Lifespan Respite Care Act (H.R. 3248) increases the availability and coordination of respite care services for family caregivers of individuals with disabilities, regardless of age. Disability Integration Act of 2015 (S.2427) amends state and local governments plans to house people with disabilities in defined living spaces.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), SENATE

H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures Act, relating to scientific research and treatments, all provisions; Public Law 113-295, Title IV, Division B (Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2014), relating to savings for individuals with disabilities, all provisions; S. 2702/H.R. 4795, ABLE To Work Act, relating to contribution limits for ABLE account beneficiaries who work, all provisions; S. 2703/H.R. 4794, ABLE Financial Planning Act, relating to rollovers of ABLE account from or to college savings accounts, all provisions; S. 2704/H.R. 4813, ABLE Age Adjustment Act, relating to the eligible age for ABLE accounts, all provisions; S.163, Avonte's Law Act of 2015, relating to the safety of individuals with autism, all provisions; S. 2614/H.R. 4919, Kevin and Avonte's Law Act, relating to the safety of individuals with autism, all provisions; S. 1177, Every Child Succeeds Act of 2015, relating to career and technical education for students with disabilities, all provisions; S. 2718 Perkins Fund for Equity and Excellence Act of 2015, relating to wrap-around services for students with disabilities, all provisions; H.R. 8, Student Success Act of 2015, relating to education for students with disabilities, all provisions; S. 298/H.R. 546, Advancing Care for Exceptional (ACE) Kids Act of 2015, relating to services for medically complex children, provisions on title XIX of the Social Security Act; S. 2721/H.R. 3377, Social Security Caregiver Credit Act of 2016, relating to Social Security credit for caregivers, Social Security provisions on income deeming and eligibility; S. 2759/H.R. 4708, Credit for Caring Act of 2016, relating to income tax credits for caregivers, provisions on income tax credits; S. 1719/H.R. 3099, Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act, related to a national family caregiving strategy, all provisions; S. 2427, Disability Integration Act of 2015, relating to long-term assistance for individuals with disabilities, provisions on title XIX of the Social Security Act; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act, relating to demonstration programs for individuals with disabilities, provisions on title XIX of the Social Security Act; Public Law 113-128, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014,relating to workforce development, provisions relating to pre-employment services for students with disabilities; Public Law 108-446, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004, relating to special education, all provisions; Public Law 109-270, Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006, relating to career and technical education for students with disabilities, all provisions; Public Law 110-315, Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, relating to post-secondary opportunities for students with autism, all provisions; Public Law 113-157 (Autism CARES Act of 2014), relating to autism research and services, all provisions; Innovation for Healthier Americans/Precision Medicine Initiative; TRICARE services for children with autism; Federal Employees Health Benefits program as it affects people with autism; implementation of the Affordable Care Act as it affects people with autism; education and employment of and health care and housing for people with autism; Medicaid, Social Security, and other benefit programs that affect people with autism; early access to care for people with autism; CMS final rules CMS 2249-F and CMS 2296-F, relating to home and community-based services, all provisions; Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2017, relating to implementation of the Affordable Care Act, provisions on 45 CFR Parts 144, 146, 147, 153, 154, 155, and 158; GAO study related to the transition needs of and services for adults with autism; financing for long-term services and supports; appropriations related to early intervention, education, caregiver support and services under title XIX of the Social Security Act; 2017 appropriations for Autism CARES and the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program autism program; recognition of World Autism Awareness Day and Month.

Transition to Independence Act, S. 1604 Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act, H.R. 3913 RAISE Family Caregivers Act, H.R. 3099 Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act, S. 192

Client expense: $24,367 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

support the Transition to Independence Act (s.1604)--Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a demonstration program over 5 years beginning in FY 2017, under which a Medicaid Buy-in State meeting certain criteria may receive bonus payments for meeting specific benchmarks in expanding integrated employment and reducing minimum wage. Meet with Congressional staff and provide information to organization constituents to advocate for co-sponsors

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $10,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

General education on Medicaid reimbursement and policy issues for direct support professionals, direct support care providers, and direct support training, support and research issues; General education on the impact of Affordable Care Act law on Medicaid dependent providers and their employees; General education on federal rules pertaining to Home and Community Based Services, Home Care, and Minimum Wage and Overtime requirements; General education on Medicaid Provider Tax financing system and Home and Community Based Services; Advocated in support of senate resolution to recognize national direct support professional recognition week--September 13, 2015; Advocated for The Transition to Independence Act, S. 1604.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $20,000

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

Submitted comments to CMS requiring better clarification of resident rights and person-centered planning needs. United Spinal signed onto a letter of support for the nomination of Henry Claypool to serve as a Commissioner on the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC). United Spinal signed onto a letter of support to CMS regarding Section 1557 and nondiscrimination towards people with disabilities in health programs and activities including the ACA regarding the enrollment of people with disabilities and the availability of plans and services for the disability community. Transition to Independence Act (S. 1604) United Spinal Association supports the Transition to Independence Act (S. 1604), introduced by Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA) and signed onto a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities letter. This bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a demonstration program over five fiscal years, beginning with FY2017, under which a Medicaid Buy-In-State program meeting certain criteria may receive bonus payments for: meeting specific measurable benchmarks in expanding individual integrated employment and reducing subminimum wage work, congregate setting work, or facility-based day habilitation placements for working-age individuals with a disability receiving Medicaid-funded home or community-based services; and taking other actions conducive to expanding employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities within the state. United Spinal signed onto a letter to CMS in support of protecting and improving access to electronic health records - Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Electronic Health Record Incentive Program. Support H.R. 3229/S. 2196 - Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015 Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover, as medical and other health services, complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) items designed or individually configured for a specific qualified individual to meet that individual's unique: (1) medical, physical, or functional needs related to a medical condition; and (2) capacities for basic activities of daily living (ADLs) or instrumental ADLs. Support H.R. 1516/S. 1013 - This bill amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to prohibit the application of Medicare competitive acquisition rates to complex rehabilitative wheelchairs and accessories. (A competitive bidding program has replaced the use of established fee schedule amounts to determine payments under Medicare for certain durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs.) Support S. 2425 - Patient Acsess and Medicare Protection Act - A bill to amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act to improve payments for complex rehabilitation technology and certain radiation therapy services, to ensure flexibility in applying the hardship exception for meaningful use for the 2015 EHR reporting period for 2017 payment adjustments, and for other purposes. Discussed with CMS, ACL and GAO concerns as it relates to access to durable medical equipment and accessories under Medicare's competitive acquisition program.

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased funding for the NIH. H.R. 209/S. 139, Expanding Access to Clinical Trials Act of 2015 (PL 114-63); H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 1597, Patient-Focused Impact Assessment Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; HR 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015; S 2425 Patient Access and Medicare Protection Act (PL 114-115)

Client expense: $80,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts. Preservation of Medicare and opposition to using Medicare to pay for the costs of other programs. Implementation of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192 HCBS Settings Community Integration Act. S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. Medicare Part B premium increase (H.R. 1314 Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015) S.2425 Patient Access and Medicare Protection Act

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

The Transition to Independence Act (S.1604), which is a Medicaid bonus demonstration program. Direct support staff wages as it relates to Medicaid funding. Equal access provision of the Social Security Act.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

General education on Medicaid reimbursement and policy issues for direct support professionals, direct support care providers, and direct support training, support and research issues; General education on the impact of Affordable Care Act law on Medicaid dependent providers and their employees; General education on federal rules pertaining to Home and Community Based Services, Home Care, and Minimum Wage and Overtime requirements; General education on Medicaid Provider Tax financing system and Home and Community Based Services; Advocated in support of senate resolution to recognize national direct support professional recognition week--September 13, 2015; Advocated for The Transition to Independence Act, S. 1604.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $20,000

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased funding for the NIH. H.R. 209/S. 139, Expanding Access to Clinical Trials Act of 2015; H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 1597, Patient-Focused Impact Assessment Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; and HR 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015

Client expense: $70,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased funding for the NIH. H.R. 209/S. 139, Expanding Access to Clinical Trials Act of 2015; H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015; S. 1597, Patient-Focused Impact Assessment Act of 2015; S. 2030, Advancing Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases Act; and HR 3229, Enforce the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2015

Client expense: $50,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts. Preservation of Medicare and opposition to using Medicare to pay for the costs of other programs. Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192 HCBS Settings Community Integration Act. S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. Steve Gleason Act (H.R. 1919)(Medicare coverage of speech generating devices) Medicare Part B premium increase

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

The Transition to Independence Act (S.1604), which is a Medicaid bonus demonstration program. Direct support staff wages as it relates to Medicaid funding.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

General education on Medicaid reimbursement and policy issues for direct support professionals, direct support care providers, and direct support training, support and research issues; General education on the impact of Affordable Care Act law on Medicaid dependent providers and their employees; General education on federal rules pertaining to Home and Community Based Services, and Home Care; Advocated in support of senate resolution to recognize national direct support professional recognition week--September 13, 2015; Advocated for The Transition to Independence Act, S. 1604.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $20,000

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), SENATE

Health care issues affecting individuals with neuromuscular disease, including transitional health care issues and increased funding for the NIH. H.R. 209/S. 139, Expanding Access to Clinical Trials Act of 2015; H.R. 6, 21st Century Cures and Innovation for Healthier Americans initiatives; S. 1604, Transition to Independence Act; and H.R. 1516/S. 1013, Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015

Client expense: $50,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Institutes of Health (NIH), SENATE

Preservation of Medicaid as an entitlement program and avoiding cuts. Preservation of Medicare and opposition to using Medicare to pay for the costs of other programs. Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, P.L. 113-295 Implementation of the Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-192, including Medicaid and application of mental health parity. HCBS Settings Community Integration Act. S. 1604 Transition to Independence Medicaid Buy-In Option. Steve Gleason Act (H.R. 1919)(Medicare coverage of speech generating devices) Medicare Part D / Access to Medications and Access to Durable Medical Equipment.

Client expense: $40,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Centers For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Education, Dept of, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Health & Human Services, Dept of (HHS), Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Labor, Dept of (DOL), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, Social Security Administration (SSA), State, Dept of (DOS), Treasury, Dept of, White House Office

The Transition to Independence Act (S.1604), which is a Medicaid bonus demonstration program. Direct support staff wages as it relates to Medicaid funding.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE