REBECCA MACTAGGART

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal responded to the Federal Communications Commissions The Reinstatement of Net Neutrality Rules (Docket No. 23-320) with comments. Which reads in part, Unfortunately, for the millions of people whom United Spinal represents, in too short a timeframe, the FCC has opined and acted on the need for dramatically more and dramatically less regulation with diametrically opposed voices. United Spinal supports H.R. 6929, The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, introduced by Representative Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-9). The bill would provide $7 billion to fund the ACP through FY24.

United Spinal responded to the Federal Communications Commissions The Reinstatement of Net Neutrality Rules (Docket No. 23-320) with comments. Which reads in part, Unfortunately, for the millions of people whom United Spinal represents, in too short a timeframe, the FCC has opined and acted on the need for dramatically more and dramatically less regulation with diametrically opposed voices. United Spinal supports H.R. 6929, The Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, introduced by Representative Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-9). The bill would provide $7 billion to fund the ACP through FY24.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

Met with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in support of insurance coverage of bowel management supplies. Engaged with CMS contractors on the need for coverage of certain ostomy supplies. United Spinal supported a letter to members of the U. S. House of Representatives sent to The Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator! Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to follow-up from their June 2023 letter to again express their gratitude for the recent decision by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to cover seat elevation systems in Group 3 power wheelchairs under Medicare. The Members also expressed continued concern that CMS has not yet initiated a National Coverage Analysis (NCA) for standing systems in these wheelchairs. United Spinal endorsed a CPR/HAB Coalition comment letter in response to the HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2026 Proposed Rule. United Spinal endorsed a CPR comment letter "Proposed Data Collection on Proprietary Guidelines and Medicare Advantage Plan Audit Protocol". United Spinal supports the S. 5070, the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In Programs Act and signed onto a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities coalition letter in support.

Met with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in support of insurance coverage of bowel management supplies. Engaged with CMS contractors on the need for coverage of certain ostomy supplies. United Spinal supported a letter to members of the U. S. House of Representatives sent to The Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator! Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to follow-up from their June 2023 letter to again express their gratitude for the recent decision by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to cover seat elevation systems in Group 3 power wheelchairs under Medicare. The Members also expressed continued concern that CMS has not yet initiated a National Coverage Analysis (NCA) for standing systems in these wheelchairs. United Spinal endorsed a CPR/HAB Coalition comment letter in response to the HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2026 Proposed Rule. United Spinal endorsed a CPR comment letter "Proposed Data Collection on Proprietary Guidelines and Medicare Advantage Plan Audit Protocol". United Spinal supports the S. 5070, the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In Programs Act and signed onto a Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities coalition letter in support.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports: H.R. 3935/S. 1939 Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act/FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 United Spinal Association supports full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) and H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. As one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations: a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights - United Spinal partcipated and provided recommendations. United Spinal Association supported is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) ongoing efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS). In support of Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure letter sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267. United Spinal supports the Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act/Sen. Duckworth. United Spinal supports Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals Act.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

Supports "Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298). Supports "Better Care Better Jobs Act" (H.R. 547/S. 100). Supports "Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act" (H.R. 1493/ S. 762). United Spinal Association provided comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) endorsed comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. On November 20th, United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC), met with representatives for the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke to discuss medical rehabilitation programs and needs. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) provided comments supporting a Limb Loss Preservation Registry (LLPR). United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Dynamic Comfort of Vehicle Occupants in Wheelchairs. United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Developing Education Modules to Promote Use of Crash Tested Wheelchairs".

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act of 2023, S. 3118. Wrote a comment letter to CMS requesting their continued work with the disability community on issues involving the role that home health aide services play in ensuring the health, well-being, and independence of beneficiaries across the nation and provided Request for Information comments and for the following: Medicare Program; Calendar Year (CY) 2024 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System Rate Update; HH Quality Reporting Program Requirements; HH Value-Based Purchasing Expanded Model Requirements; Home Intravenous Immune Globulin Items and Services; Hospice Informal Dispute Resolution and Special Focus Program Requirements, Certain Requirements for Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics and Orthotics Supplies; and Provider and Supplier Enrollment Requirements. [CMS-1780-P] Wrote a comment letter to CMS in response to the proposed rulemaking: Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services NPRM (CMS 2442-P) especially as it relates to Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). United Spinal expressed their support of the proposed rulemaking and its impacts on our members. On November 2nd, United Spinal, along with numerous other organizations, as members of the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition met with representatives of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to discuss the status of a proposed issuance of a National Coverage Determination (NCD) for power wheelchair standing systems. Supported the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Product Act of 2023 as a member of the ITEM Coalition Steering Committee. Enodrsed/drafted joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Letter on Section 504 Proposed Rule. Endorsed letter to CDC and GAO and U.S. Senate on access to catheters and catheter acquired urinary tract infections. United Spinal supports Telehealth Expansion Act - S. 1001/H.R. 1848

United Spinal Association supports Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance Act of 2023 (The PASTEUR Act of 2023; S. 1355/H.R. 2940). Joined almost thirty other organizations in Washington, D.C. to advocate for the Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance Act of 2023 (The PASTEUR Act of 2023; S. 1355/H.R. 2940). The PASTEUR Act of 2023 is sponsored by Senator Bennet (D-CO) and Representative Ferguson (R-GA). Met with the offices of Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Rep. Glenn Grothman WI-06 and Rep. GT Thompson (R-PA-15) Wrote letters of support and appreciation to Sen. Bennet and Rep. Ferguson. PASTEUR Act creates solutions to encourage innovative drug development targeting the most threatening infections, improve the appropriate use of antibiotics, and ensure domestic availability of antibiotics when needed.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal participated in a quarterly call with Amtrak along with other representatives from disability organizations. United Spinal asked for support of Disability Access to Transportation Act (H.R. 3845/S. 1813). United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, signed onto a letter led by the American Council of the Blind to U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee to support the continued development and deployment of autonomous vehicles in the United States, which could significantly enhance the lives of millions of disabled Americans and their loved ones, and ask that Congress take swift action to ensure ongoing development of this industry can occur in this country. United Spinal Submitted comments on the U. S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information on Department of Transportation Equity Action Plan Update (Docket No. DOT-OST-2023-0087). United Spinal, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation Task Force, supported comments from the Task Forces co-chairs submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation providing feedback on the 2023 update to the Equity Action Plan. The letter read in part,It is important to ensure that equity measures advance access to and availability of transportation options for people with disabilities. The comments may be reviewed at:

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technology & Telecommunications Task Force signed on to a letter to the leadership of the Congressional Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus to express our strong support for the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and to urge Congress to allocate additional funding to this crucial initiative. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 4858 / S. 2494, the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility (CVTA) Act, reintroduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16). This legislation would update and strengthen existing accessibility regulations secured through Senator Markeys CVAA to stay up-to-date with the proliferation of new technologies-from video conferencing platforms to artificial intelligence-which have become prevalent since the CVAA became law in 2010. United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, engaged with the Director of the Government-wide IT Accessibility Program, U.S. General Services Administration and his fellow colleagues, from the Federal CIO Council's Accessibility Community of Practice, who presented on their ongoing work to support Section 508 across the federal government. United Spinal Association consulted with Senate congressional staff on potential legislative language regarding federal departments and agencies compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, shared a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 8.17.23 outreach email with fellow Task Force members that while 20 million households have signed up to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, one organization estimates that at least 48 million households are eligible.

United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technology & Telecommunications Task Force signed on to a letter to the leadership of the Congressional Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus to express our strong support for the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and to urge Congress to allocate additional funding to this crucial initiative. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 4858 / S. 2494, the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility (CVTA) Act, reintroduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16). This legislation would update and strengthen existing accessibility regulations secured through Senator Markeys CVAA to stay up-to-date with the proliferation of new technologies-from video conferencing platforms to artificial intelligence-which have become prevalent since the CVAA became law in 2010. United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, engaged with the Director of the Government-wide IT Accessibility Program, U.S. General Services Administration and his fellow colleagues, from the Federal CIO Council's Accessibility Community of Practice, who presented on their ongoing work to support Section 508 across the federal government. United Spinal Association consulted with Senate congressional staff on potential legislative language regarding federal departments and agencies compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, shared a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 8.17.23 outreach email with fellow Task Force members that while 20 million households have signed up to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, one organization estimates that at least 48 million households are eligible.

United Spinal Association advocated for and expressed thanks to Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) for championing the passage of a resolution designating September 2023 as National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) and several of its task forces, signed on to a letter commending and thanking the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra, and Melanie Fontes Rainer, Director Office for Civil Rights for the publication of its historic proposed rule, Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in Health and Human Service Programs or Activities - the 504 rule/Rehabilitation Act. United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Consortium, signed a letter to the bipartisan leadership of the U. S. Senates Committee on Appropriations, expressing serious concerns with the proposed $14 billion in cuts and eliminations of programs for the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) in the House of Representatives proposed FY 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (L-HHS) appropriations bill. On September 26, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced that it had people with disabilities as a population with health disparities for research supported by the NIH. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition along with numerous other organizations, has long sought the designation. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Consortium (DRRC), signed a letter to the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) expressing the need to the agencies to move forward with the Advisory Committee to the Director (ACD) Working Group on Diversity, Subgroup on Individuals with Disabilities recommendation to recognize people with disabilities as a health disparities population. United Spinal, along with 1,290 healthcare providers, researchers, caregivers, organizations, and people with disabilities signed on to a letter urging the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to reconsider the recent National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) working group recommendation to reject designating people with disabilities as a health disparities population. On 9.19.23 United Spinal Association submitted the following question for the 9.21.23 @ 2:00pm White House Office of Public Engagement Aging and Disability Communities Call: Will the President assist to reconsider NIMHD working group recommendation to reject designating people with disabilities as a health disparities population? United SpinalAssociation, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Consortium (DRRC), met with National Institutes of Health (NIH) leaders, Dr. Alison Cernich, Deputy Director, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and Dr. Theresa Hayes Cruz, Director, NICHD National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (NCMRR). Discussion topics included: Current Status of Disability and Rehabilitation Research at NIH Status of ACD Recommendations and DEIA at NIH Engagement with Other Federal Agencies FY 2024 Appropriations and Funding of NIH Policy staff also asked about any response that had been received from researchers to: Home and Community-Based Physical Activity Interventions to Improve the Health of Wheelchair Users (R01 Clinical Trial Required): https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-HD-22-017.html Dr. Cruz responded, We received a strong number of applications to this RFA and were able to fund two R01s. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 5308 - Rural Telehealth and Education Enhancement Act of 2023, reauthorizing the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program administered by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) which allocates grants to assist rural communities in acquiring the essential technology and training needed to establish connections between educational and medical experts, students, teachers, and patients residing in rural areas. United Spinal Association met with NIDILRR, along with other staleholders, as part of the ITEM Coalition, to dsicuss improved access to bowel and bladder management supplies under Medicare. United Spinal Association endorsed MS Coalition comments to ICER reagrding evaluation of patient-reported outcomes in regards to MS therapies. United Spinal Association supported, as part of the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilition, Rep. Pascrells NDAA amendments that would require the U.S. Department of Defense to conduct two separate studies on (1) eliminating outpatient rehabilitation limits for active duty servicemembers suffering from TBI; and (2) recognizing non-governmental bodies for accrediting brain injury treatment programs for servicemembers. These studies will provide critical information to the Department of Defense and Congress about the possible expansion of rehabilitation treatment to our service members that have suffered a brain injury while serving this great country.

On September 14th, United Spinal Association participated in a Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) Product Expo on Capitol Hill for members of Congress and their staffs hosted by the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART) and the National Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (NRRTS). Policy staff invited members of Congress and their staffs and explained how CRT makes our lives healthier and productive. Additionally, attendees could interact with CRT products, other CRT users, clinicians, providers, manufacturers, and other advocates provided demonstrations and answered questions. United Spinal Association commends the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for their announcement in May 2023 in support of Medicare coverage of seat elevation for power wheelchairs, and we are urging CMS to expand on this progress and hold to its commitment of swiftly opening a comment period for standing systems in power wheelchairs and to conduct a full review of its mobility device coverage, coverage, coding and payment policies. Additionally, due to the increasingly restrictive interpretation of Medicare's "in the home" language and the adoption of Medicare coverage policy by commercial insurers, wheelchair users face constant insurance denials and delays in obtaining appropriate equipment resulting in health injuries and secondary health conditions such as pressure injuries (pressure sores) and rotator cuff and carpal tunnel injuries, due to overuse of their upper extremities. United Spinal advocated for members of Congress to support a legislative or regulatory fix by asking that they join a House Dear Colleague Letter sent to CMS July 13, led by Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) that requested: 1) CMS hold to its commitment of opening the comment period for Medicare coverage of standing systems; 2) lifting the "in the home" restriction on coverage of mobility devices that meet the medical and functional needs of all people with mobility disabilities; adding "and/or in the community" to the MAE language in the NCD; and 3) conducting a full review of current mobility device coverage, coding and payment policies. On September 26th, United Spinal policy staff participated in an ITEM Coalition meeting with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to discuss the national coverage determination (NCD) request for standing systems in power wheelchairs. United Spinal Association advocated for and supported a letter Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Bob Casey (D-PA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) sent the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) request a full review of its 2005 National Coverage Determination for Mobility Assistive Equipment (MAE) for Medicare beneficiaries, including its interpretation of the in the home requirement. Current Medicare coverage limitations on equipment used outside the home can limit patients access to mobility equipment and to their communities. United Spinal submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed rule addressing the CY 2024 update to the Home Health Prospective Payment System, [CMS-1780-P]. The comments focused solely on the proposed language under Definition of a Brace. United Spinal Association supports NCART and NRRTS legislative asks: Ask 1: CMS must move forward with establishing Medicare coverage for Power Standing Systems We are incredibly thankful to CMS for following the medical evidence and initiating coverage for Seat Elevation this past year. However, CMS has not yet moved forward on establishing coverage for Power Standing Systems used with CRT Power Wheelchairs. This request was submitted jointly with the request for power seat elevation in September 2020, but CMS separated the two technologies and opted to consider coverage individually. Clinical evidence shows that Power Standing Systems provide significant medical benefits and allow people with disabilities to maintain independence in their homes and communities. This delay is resulting in a denial of access for individuals with mobility impairments and we are asking Congress to contact CMS Administrator Brooks-LaSure to urge needed action. Ask 2: CMS must allow consumers equal opportunity to upgrade their own equipment For some Medicare enrollees, enhanced options like titanium or carbon fiber are available for the CRT equipment recommended by their clinical team. However, these upgrades are currently only available through a complicated process that does not allow Medicare beneficiaries to simply cover the difference in cost. This limits patient choice and forces individuals to either utilize equipment that may not be optimized for their medical needs or pay entirely out of pocket for equipment with the desired upgrades. HR 5371 introduced by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA) allows for code upgrades for titanium and carbon fiber wheelchairs under Medicare. We believe that individuals should have the right to utilize their insurance benefits while still being able to optimize their equipment if they choose to do so. This would not result in any additional cost to the Medicare program. We ask each Representative to contact Matt Joyce in Representative Joyces office to Cosponsor HR 5371 and allow this important change for individuals with disabilities. Ask 3: Congressional Support must be provided to maintain access to CRT equipment. Currently, providers are only reimbursed for a portion of the multi-layer process of supplying CRT equipment, which includes clinical evaluation, technology assessment, equipment simulation, assembly/configuration, delivery, fitting, programming, and training. Ongoing inflation and increased operating expenses further threaten access to needed equipment, repairs, and other services for individuals with disabilities. Relief is needed and we are asking Congress to discuss CRT stakeholder recommendations and pursue actions that support a strong provider network and secure access for individuals who rely on this life-changing equipment. Submitted comments to CMS re RFI on Home Health Aide Services. United Spinal Association met with CMS, with other stakeholders, to discuss the expansion of HCPCS coding for catheters. United Spinal Association, as a member of the ITEM Coalition, submitted comenmts on Transtioanl Coverage for Emerging Technologies (TCET). United Spnal Association, as part of the Coalition to Preserve Rehabilitation, submitted comments on the IRF Review Choice Demonstration. United Spinal Asociaton met with CMS to discuss the need for coverage of standing systems in wheelchairs and thanked CMS for the coverage of seat elevation under Medicare. United Spinal Asociaton met with ACL to discuss the need for coverage of standing systems in wheelchairs and thanked ACL's support for the coverage of seat elevation under Medicare.

Supports "Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298). Supports "Better Care Better Jobs Act" (H.R. 547/S. 100). Supports "Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act" (H.R. 1493/ S. 762). United Spinal Association provided comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) endorsed comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. On November 20th, United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC), met with representatives for the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke to discuss medical rehabilitation programs and needs. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) provided comments supporting a Limb Loss Preservation Registry (LLPR). United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Dynamic Comfort of Vehicle Occupants in Wheelchairs. United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Developing Education Modules to Promote Use of Crash Tested Wheelchairs".

Supports "Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298). Supports "Better Care Better Jobs Act" (H.R. 547/S. 100). Supports "Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act" (H.R. 1493/ S. 762). United Spinal Association provided comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) endorsed comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. On November 20th, United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC), met with representatives for the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke to discuss medical rehabilitation programs and needs. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) provided comments supporting a Limb Loss Preservation Registry (LLPR). United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Dynamic Comfort of Vehicle Occupants in Wheelchairs. United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Developing Education Modules to Promote Use of Crash Tested Wheelchairs".

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act of 2023, S. 3118. Wrote a comment letter to CMS requesting their continued work with the disability community on issues involving the role that home health aide services play in ensuring the health, well-being, and independence of beneficiaries across the nation and provided Request for Information comments and for the following: Medicare Program; Calendar Year (CY) 2024 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System Rate Update; HH Quality Reporting Program Requirements; HH Value-Based Purchasing Expanded Model Requirements; Home Intravenous Immune Globulin Items and Services; Hospice Informal Dispute Resolution and Special Focus Program Requirements, Certain Requirements for Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics and Orthotics Supplies; and Provider and Supplier Enrollment Requirements. [CMS-1780-P] Wrote a comment letter to CMS in response to the proposed rulemaking: Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services NPRM (CMS 2442-P) especially as it relates to Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). United Spinal expressed their support of the proposed rulemaking and its impacts on our members. On November 2nd, United Spinal, along with numerous other organizations, as members of the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition met with representatives of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to discuss the status of a proposed issuance of a National Coverage Determination (NCD) for power wheelchair standing systems. Supported the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Product Act of 2023 as a member of the ITEM Coalition Steering Committee. Enodrsed/drafted joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Letter on Section 504 Proposed Rule. Endorsed letter to CDC and GAO and U.S. Senate on access to catheters and catheter acquired urinary tract infections. United Spinal supports Telehealth Expansion Act - S. 1001/H.R. 1848

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

Supports "Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298). Supports "Better Care Better Jobs Act" (H.R. 547/S. 100). Supports "Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act" (H.R. 1493/ S. 762). United Spinal Association provided comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) endorsed comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. On November 20th, United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC), met with representatives for the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke to discuss medical rehabilitation programs and needs. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) provided comments supporting a Limb Loss Preservation Registry (LLPR). United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Dynamic Comfort of Vehicle Occupants in Wheelchairs. United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Developing Education Modules to Promote Use of Crash Tested Wheelchairs".

United Spinal Association supports Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance Act of 2023 (The PASTEUR Act of 2023; S. 1355/H.R. 2940). Joined almost thirty other organizations in Washington, D.C. to advocate for the Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance Act of 2023 (The PASTEUR Act of 2023; S. 1355/H.R. 2940). The PASTEUR Act of 2023 is sponsored by Senator Bennet (D-CO) and Representative Ferguson (R-GA). Met with the offices of Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Rep. Glenn Grothman WI-06 and Rep. GT Thompson (R-PA-15) Wrote letters of support and appreciation to Sen. Bennet and Rep. Ferguson. PASTEUR Act creates solutions to encourage innovative drug development targeting the most threatening infections, improve the appropriate use of antibiotics, and ensure domestic availability of antibiotics when needed.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal participated in a quarterly call with Amtrak along with other representatives from disability organizations. United Spinal asked for support of Disability Access to Transportation Act (H.R. 3845/S. 1813). United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, signed onto a letter led by the American Council of the Blind to U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee to support the continued development and deployment of autonomous vehicles in the United States, which could significantly enhance the lives of millions of disabled Americans and their loved ones, and ask that Congress take swift action to ensure ongoing development of this industry can occur in this country. United Spinal Submitted comments on the U. S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information on Department of Transportation Equity Action Plan Update (Docket No. DOT-OST-2023-0087). United Spinal, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation Task Force, supported comments from the Task Forces co-chairs submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation providing feedback on the 2023 update to the Equity Action Plan. The letter read in part,It is important to ensure that equity measures advance access to and availability of transportation options for people with disabilities. The comments may be reviewed at:

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technology & Telecommunications Task Force signed on to a letter to the leadership of the Congressional Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus to express our strong support for the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and to urge Congress to allocate additional funding to this crucial initiative. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 4858 / S. 2494, the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility (CVTA) Act, reintroduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16). This legislation would update and strengthen existing accessibility regulations secured through Senator Markeys CVAA to stay up-to-date with the proliferation of new technologies-from video conferencing platforms to artificial intelligence-which have become prevalent since the CVAA became law in 2010. United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, engaged with the Director of the Government-wide IT Accessibility Program, U.S. General Services Administration and his fellow colleagues, from the Federal CIO Council's Accessibility Community of Practice, who presented on their ongoing work to support Section 508 across the federal government. United Spinal Association consulted with Senate congressional staff on potential legislative language regarding federal departments and agencies compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, shared a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 8.17.23 outreach email with fellow Task Force members that while 20 million households have signed up to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, one organization estimates that at least 48 million households are eligible.

United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technology & Telecommunications Task Force signed on to a letter to the leadership of the Congressional Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus to express our strong support for the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and to urge Congress to allocate additional funding to this crucial initiative. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 4858 / S. 2494, the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility (CVTA) Act, reintroduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16). This legislation would update and strengthen existing accessibility regulations secured through Senator Markeys CVAA to stay up-to-date with the proliferation of new technologies-from video conferencing platforms to artificial intelligence-which have become prevalent since the CVAA became law in 2010. United Spinal Association, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, engaged with the Director of the Government-wide IT Accessibility Program, U.S. General Services Administration and his fellow colleagues, from the Federal CIO Council's Accessibility Community of Practice, who presented on their ongoing work to support Section 508 across the federal government. United Spinal Association consulted with Senate congressional staff on potential legislative language regarding federal departments and agencies compliance with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. United Spinal Association, as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Technologies and Telecommunications Task Force, shared a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 8.17.23 outreach email with fellow Task Force members that while 20 million households have signed up to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program, one organization estimates that at least 48 million households are eligible.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act of 2023, S. 3118. Wrote a comment letter to CMS requesting their continued work with the disability community on issues involving the role that home health aide services play in ensuring the health, well-being, and independence of beneficiaries across the nation and provided Request for Information comments and for the following: Medicare Program; Calendar Year (CY) 2024 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System Rate Update; HH Quality Reporting Program Requirements; HH Value-Based Purchasing Expanded Model Requirements; Home Intravenous Immune Globulin Items and Services; Hospice Informal Dispute Resolution and Special Focus Program Requirements, Certain Requirements for Durable Medical Equipment Prosthetics and Orthotics Supplies; and Provider and Supplier Enrollment Requirements. [CMS-1780-P] Wrote a comment letter to CMS in response to the proposed rulemaking: Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services NPRM (CMS 2442-P) especially as it relates to Home and Community Based Services (HCBS). United Spinal expressed their support of the proposed rulemaking and its impacts on our members. On November 2nd, United Spinal, along with numerous other organizations, as members of the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) Coalition met with representatives of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to discuss the status of a proposed issuance of a National Coverage Determination (NCD) for power wheelchair standing systems. Supported the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Product Act of 2023 as a member of the ITEM Coalition Steering Committee. Enodrsed/drafted joint ITEM/CPR Coalition Letter on Section 504 Proposed Rule. Endorsed letter to CDC and GAO and U.S. Senate on access to catheters and catheter acquired urinary tract infections. United Spinal supports Telehealth Expansion Act - S. 1001/H.R. 1848

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267. United Spinal supports the Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act/Sen. Duckworth. United Spinal supports Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals Act.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935/S. 1939, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal Association supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. SEIU members from across the nation joined United Spinal Association, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and National Disability Rights Network in thanking U.S. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) for his leadership on the Good Jobs for Good Airports bill. Met with Sen.Ted Budd to express support fo GJGA. United Spinal submitted comments in response to the U.S. Department of Transportations (DOT) Request for Information (RFI) about the critical role Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Docket:(DOT-OST-2023-0079), should play in the lives of people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, met periodically with U. S. Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, to discuss disability rights advocacy. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations and aviation industry representatives, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation public awareness campaign to increase awareness of the different types and levels of accommodations that airlines can provide to passengers with disabilities. United Spinal staff consulted with House Congressional staff per their request on potential legislative language regarding accessible adult changing stations in airports. On September 28th, as part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for safe and accessible air travel, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Hand In Hand, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and United Spinal Association issued a joint statement in response to a settlement agreement reached by the U.S. Department of Transportation and United Airlines following a complaint from the late disability rights advocate Engracia Figueroa.

United Spinal supports the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act S. 545/H.R. 1267, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act H.R. 1445/S. 400, H.R. 3762 / S.1765 - the Emergency Vacating of Aircraft Cabin Act, the Airline Safety Information and Entertainment Access Act, S. 1119, the MOBILE Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) H.R. 3802/S. 1459; H.R.3743, a bill To amend the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to extend the advisory committee on the air travel needs of passengers with disabilities. United Spinal supports H.R.1772, the wheelchairs on Airplanes Act introduced by U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). The would help prevent discrimination against airline passengers with disabilities who use lithium-ion-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids that are safe for air travel. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S. 1939. Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act of 2023:requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) publish an annual report on how quickly, effectively and efficiently consumer complaints related to traveling with a disability are received, addressed and resolved by DOT. Mobility Aids On Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act: requires DOT issue an advisory circular that provides guidance to airlines on publishing information related to powered wheelchairs, including the dimensions of aircraft cargo holds, and evaluate the frequency and types of mishandling of mobility aids and take actions towards making in-flight wheelchair seating available. Access and Dignity for All People who Travel (ADAPT) Act: requires DOT issue regulations regarding seating accommodations for passengers with disabilities that takes into account being seated next to their companion and requires the Secretary of Transportation establish an optional Known Service Animal Travel Pilot Program, providing service animal users the opportunity to participate in a streamlined pre-registration process. Equal Accessibility to Passenger Portals (Equal APP) Act: requires DOT issue regulations to ensure that customer-facing websites, applications and information communication technologies (ICT) of airlines and airports are accessible. It would require the Secretary to conduct regular audits of such websites, applications and ICTs and allow the Secretary to hold non-compliant entities accountable by issuing civil penalties. Store On-board Wheelchairs in Cabin (STOWIC) Act: requires airlines provide information on the airline website-and anywhere people can make reservations- regarding the rights and responsibilities of both airlines and passengers as to the availability of on-board wheelchairs. It would also require annual staff training regarding assisting people with disabilities on the use of on-board wheelchairs and the right to request an on-board wheelchair. It would allow the Secretary to issue enhanced civil penalties if airlines fail to provide an on-board wheelchair. Airport Accessibility Grants: authorizes a pilot grant program to help airports make their facilities more accessible. The program would be funded at $20 million per year from Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds. Provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports the disability-related provisions contained in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, H. R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act including provisions of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act. United Spinal supports H.R. 1499/ S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. United Spinal endorsed a letter, dated May 3, 2023, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1st), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) submitted to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg seeking greater transparency of disability-related air travel complaints the DOT receives

United Spinal Association supports accessibility provisions for people with disabilities in the following bills to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administrations programs: H.R. 3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act - S. 1939, FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, United Spinal Association support full inclusion of all of the provisions contained in H.R. 1267/ S. 545, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA), H.R. 1499 / S. 753, the Good Jobs for Good Airports (GJGA) Act. United Spinal Association supported a letter sent by Democratic Committee Members of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent to Airlines for America (A4A) President and CEO Nicholas Calio expressing concern and dismay regarding the continued trend of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, most recently on display in a video showing airline employees mistreatment of a passengers wheelchair at the Miami International Airport (MIA). United Spinal Association supported and participated in a working group, dedicated to implementing one of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Advisory Committee recommendations, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Public Awareness Campaign to Ensure Air Travelers with Disabilities Know Their Rights. United Spinal Association supported and participated in the U.S. Department of Transportations Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) on-going efforts to launch a new database, Aviation Complaint, Enforcement, and Reporting System (ACERS).

Supports "Supporting Our Direct Care Workforce and Family Caregivers Act (S. 1298). Supports "Better Care Better Jobs Act" (H.R. 547/S. 100). Supports "Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Access Act" (H.R. 1493/ S. 762). United Spinal Association provided comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) endorsed comments on the proposed update to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mission statement. On November 20th, United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other members of the Disability Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC), met with representatives for the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke to discuss medical rehabilitation programs and needs. United Spinal, along with numerous other disability organizations, as members of the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) provided comments supporting a Limb Loss Preservation Registry (LLPR). United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Dynamic Comfort of Vehicle Occupants in Wheelchairs. United Spinal provided a letter of support for a proposed project from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Researchs (NIDILRR) request for proposals on field-Initialed Projects, Developing Education Modules to Promote Use of Crash Tested Wheelchairs".

Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program Funding Wrote letters to both the House and Senate appropriations committees and their subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, Urban Development, and Related Agencies thanking them for their funding and stating that we supported the House Appropriations funding amount of $100 million over the Senates $25 million. Description: CONNECTING AMERICAS ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM ACT (H.R> 2991/S. 684) while passed was not fully funded. This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to carry out an active transportation investment program to provide competitive grants to state, local, and regional government entities, and Indian tribes to construct projects that connect walking and bicycling infrastructure within and between communities, metropolitan regions, or states. ●United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a quarterly call with Amtrak along with other representatives from disability organizations. ●United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a call with Amtrak along with other representatives from disability organizations to discuss a marketing research plan regarding service between Chicago, IL and St. Louis, MO. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with staff for Sen. Menendez (D-NJ) to discuss reintroduction of the Disability Access to Transportation Act in the 118th Congress. To ensure safer, more accessible rail travel for people with disabilities and as a member of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation Task Force, United Spinal supported a letter the Task Forces Co Chairs sent to Amtraks President & CEO regarding a meeting held on July 21, 2022 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Washington, D.C. The letter read in part: We appreciated receiving updates on Amtraks latest activities to ensure its services and facilities are accessible. However, our organizations were disappointed that the meeting was less interactive with the Board than anticipated. Additionally, concerns remain that were not addressed. We request a new meeting with the Amtrak Board and leadership to act as a catalyst to spur further conversation.

To advocate for equitable and inclusive accessibility in air travel for people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal public policy staff met with congressional staff in support of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act H.R. 1696/S. 642. United Spinal policy staff provided feedback to Senate office on disability related provisions that may be considered in the next Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. United Spinal policy staff participated in the 20th Annual Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Coalition meeting.

United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other disability organizations, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) - Disability Advocates Meeting. Policy staff raised concerns about whether DOT had adequate staffing and resources to more effectively and expeditiously respond to passengers with disabilities air travel complaints. Currently, complaints administered by the DOTs Office of Aviation Consumer Protection are averaging a response timeframe of over a year. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel for people with disabilities, United Spinal in response to the Federal Aviation Administrations request for comments on minimum seat dimensions necessary for safety of air passengers, (Emergency Evacuation) submitted comments to Docket No. FAA-2022-1001. United Spinal, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation and Emergency Management Task Forces, United Spinal supported comments the Task Force Co-Chairs submitted. United Spinal also supported comments made by Paralyzed Veterans of America on Docket No. FAA-2022-1001. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel for people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal submitted written testimony for the hearing record of the House Committee On Transportation And Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation: Accessible air travel: addressing challenges for passengers with disabilities, held on November 17, 2022. United Spinals comments addressed the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration next year and our longstanding priority that the provisions of H.R.1696 - Air Carrier Access Amendments Act of 2021 (ACAAA) be included in the reauthorization. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel by people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal submitted comments in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on airline ticket refunds and airline consumer protections, DOT-OST-2022-0089. Co-sponsor and pass S. 642/H.R. 1696, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAA) of 2021.

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. Signed onto letter to Sen. Schumer and Sen. McConnell asking to extend coverage for telehealth services under Medicare to continue for another 2 years following the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Support increased funding for SCI Model Systems via NIDILRR funding. Support catheter coding reform Support Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing devices in poweer wheelchairs and support regulation to lift the 'in-the-home' restriction on Medicare coverage of wheelchairs. Support the H.R. 4040, the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act." Financial Assistance for complex rehab technology wheelchair manufacturers and wheelchair service providers to encourage federal financial assistance to address unsustainable cost increases CRT suppliers have incurred over the past two years to allow them to maintain critical access to CRT and the supporting services for people with disabilities. CRT providers and manufacturers have incurred significant operating challenges and increased expenses over the past two years. Supports increaed funding for home and community-based services. To increase health outcomes, safety and accessibility,on August 3, United Spinal, a member of the Steering Committee of the ITEM Coalition, participated in a virtual roundtable discussion on Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing systems used in power wheelchairs hosted by the National Council on Disability. United Spinal also submitted comments to NCD on the need for Medicare coverage. On 9.14.22, United Spinal GR Staff presented at and United Spinal, as Steering Committee member of the ITEM Coalition, co-hosted an ITEM Coalition Congressional Briefing on Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. It featured remarks from Members of Congress, wheelchair users advocates and clinicians. United Spinal, as a member of the ITEM Coalition, advocated for members of Congress to sign on to hosue and Senate Dear Colleague letters to support Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. Submitted comments to CMS National Coverage Analysis to urge for Medicare coverage of seat elevation in power wheelchairs and to urge for Medicare coverage of standindg devices systems in power wheelchairs. Submitted comments to HHS to ensure non-discrimination protections for people with disabilities under Section 1557. Support H.R. 8746 "Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act" or three hour rule bill. Endorsed a Colaiton to Preserv Rehabilitation comment letter for Calendar Year (CY) 2023 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. This letter focuses on two main provisions in the rule, in line with past CPR comment letters (in particularly our comments on the CY 2021 Proposed Rule). 1.The impact of proposed reimbursement cuts that will potentially impact patient access to care; and 2.The treatment of telehealth as the federal government prepares for the expiration of the public health emergency.

United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. Signed onto letter to Sen. Schumer and Sen. McConnell asking to extend coverage for telehealth services under Medicare to continue for another 2 years following the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Support increased funding for SCI Model Systems via NIDILRR funding. Support catheter coding reform Support Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing devices in poweer wheelchairs and support regulation to lift the 'in-the-home' restriction on Medicare coverage of wheelchairs. Support the H.R. 4040, the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act." Financial Assistance for complex rehab technology wheelchair manufacturers and wheelchair service providers to encourage federal financial assistance to address unsustainable cost increases CRT suppliers have incurred over the past two years to allow them to maintain critical access to CRT and the supporting services for people with disabilities. CRT providers and manufacturers have incurred significant operating challenges and increased expenses over the past two years. Supports increaed funding for home and community-based services. To increase health outcomes, safety and accessibility,on August 3, United Spinal, a member of the Steering Committee of the ITEM Coalition, participated in a virtual roundtable discussion on Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing systems used in power wheelchairs hosted by the National Council on Disability. United Spinal also submitted comments to NCD on the need for Medicare coverage. On 9.14.22, United Spinal GR Staff presented at and United Spinal, as Steering Committee member of the ITEM Coalition, co-hosted an ITEM Coalition Congressional Briefing on Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. It featured remarks from Members of Congress, wheelchair users advocates and clinicians. United Spinal, as a member of the ITEM Coalition, advocated for members of Congress to sign on to hosue and Senate Dear Colleague letters to support Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. Submitted comments to CMS National Coverage Analysis to urge for Medicare coverage of seat elevation in power wheelchairs and to urge for Medicare coverage of standindg devices systems in power wheelchairs. Submitted comments to HHS to ensure non-discrimination protections for people with disabilities under Section 1557. Support H.R. 8746 "Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act" or three hour rule bill. Endorsed a Colaiton to Preserv Rehabilitation comment letter for Calendar Year (CY) 2023 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. This letter focuses on two main provisions in the rule, in line with past CPR comment letters (in particularly our comments on the CY 2021 Proposed Rule). 1.The impact of proposed reimbursement cuts that will potentially impact patient access to care; and 2.The treatment of telehealth as the federal government prepares for the expiration of the public health emergency.

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. Signed onto letter to Sen. Schumer and Sen. McConnell asking to extend coverage for telehealth services under Medicare to continue for another 2 years following the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Support increased funding for SCI Model Systems via NIDILRR funding. Support catheter coding reform Support Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing devices in poweer wheelchairs and support regulation to lift the 'in-the-home' restriction on Medicare coverage of wheelchairs. Support the H.R. 4040, the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act." Financial Assistance for complex rehab technology wheelchair manufacturers and wheelchair service providers to encourage federal financial assistance to address unsustainable cost increases CRT suppliers have incurred over the past two years to allow them to maintain critical access to CRT and the supporting services for people with disabilities. CRT providers and manufacturers have incurred significant operating challenges and increased expenses over the past two years. Supports increaed funding for home and community-based services. To increase health outcomes, safety and accessibility,on August 3, United Spinal, a member of the Steering Committee of the ITEM Coalition, participated in a virtual roundtable discussion on Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing systems used in power wheelchairs hosted by the National Council on Disability. United Spinal also submitted comments to NCD on the need for Medicare coverage. On 9.14.22, United Spinal GR Staff presented at and United Spinal, as Steering Committee member of the ITEM Coalition, co-hosted an ITEM Coalition Congressional Briefing on Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. It featured remarks from Members of Congress, wheelchair users advocates and clinicians. United Spinal, as a member of the ITEM Coalition, advocated for members of Congress to sign on to hosue and Senate Dear Colleague letters to support Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. Submitted comments to CMS National Coverage Analysis to urge for Medicare coverage of seat elevation in power wheelchairs and to urge for Medicare coverage of standindg devices systems in power wheelchairs. Submitted comments to HHS to ensure non-discrimination protections for people with disabilities under Section 1557. Support H.R. 8746 "Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act" or three hour rule bill. Endorsed a Colaiton to Preserv Rehabilitation comment letter for Calendar Year (CY) 2023 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. This letter focuses on two main provisions in the rule, in line with past CPR comment letters (in particularly our comments on the CY 2021 Proposed Rule). 1.The impact of proposed reimbursement cuts that will potentially impact patient access to care; and 2.The treatment of telehealth as the federal government prepares for the expiration of the public health emergency.

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. Signed onto letter to Sen. Schumer and Sen. McConnell asking to extend coverage for telehealth services under Medicare to continue for another 2 years following the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Support increased funding for SCI Model Systems via NIDILRR funding. Support catheter coding reform Support Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing devices in poweer wheelchairs and support regulation to lift the 'in-the-home' restriction on Medicare coverage of wheelchairs. Support the H.R. 4040, the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act." Financial Assistance for complex rehab technology wheelchair manufacturers and wheelchair service providers to encourage federal financial assistance to address unsustainable cost increases CRT suppliers have incurred over the past two years to allow them to maintain critical access to CRT and the supporting services for people with disabilities. CRT providers and manufacturers have incurred significant operating challenges and increased expenses over the past two years. Supports increaed funding for home and community-based services. To increase health outcomes, safety and accessibility,on August 3, United Spinal, a member of the Steering Committee of the ITEM Coalition, participated in a virtual roundtable discussion on Medicare coverage of seat elevation and standing systems used in power wheelchairs hosted by the National Council on Disability. United Spinal also submitted comments to NCD on the need for Medicare coverage. On 9.14.22, United Spinal GR Staff presented at and United Spinal, as Steering Committee member of the ITEM Coalition, co-hosted an ITEM Coalition Congressional Briefing on Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. It featured remarks from Members of Congress, wheelchair users advocates and clinicians. United Spinal, as a member of the ITEM Coalition, advocated for members of Congress to sign on to hosue and Senate Dear Colleague letters to support Medicare Coverage of Seat Elevation and Standing Systems in Power Wheelchairs. Submitted comments to CMS National Coverage Analysis to urge for Medicare coverage of seat elevation in power wheelchairs and to urge for Medicare coverage of standindg devices systems in power wheelchairs. Submitted comments to HHS to ensure non-discrimination protections for people with disabilities under Section 1557. Support H.R. 8746 "Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act" or three hour rule bill. Endorsed a Colaiton to Preserv Rehabilitation comment letter for Calendar Year (CY) 2023 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule. This letter focuses on two main provisions in the rule, in line with past CPR comment letters (in particularly our comments on the CY 2021 Proposed Rule). 1.The impact of proposed reimbursement cuts that will potentially impact patient access to care; and 2.The treatment of telehealth as the federal government prepares for the expiration of the public health emergency.

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES

To advocate for equitable and inclusive accessibility in air travel for people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal public policy staff met with congressional staff in support of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act H.R. 1696/S. 642. United Spinal policy staff provided feedback to Senate office on disability related provisions that may be considered in the next Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. United Spinal policy staff participated in the 20th Annual Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Coalition meeting.

United Spinal policy staff, along with numerous other disability organizations, participated in a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) - Disability Advocates Meeting. Policy staff raised concerns about whether DOT had adequate staffing and resources to more effectively and expeditiously respond to passengers with disabilities air travel complaints. Currently, complaints administered by the DOTs Office of Aviation Consumer Protection are averaging a response timeframe of over a year. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel for people with disabilities, United Spinal in response to the Federal Aviation Administrations request for comments on minimum seat dimensions necessary for safety of air passengers, (Emergency Evacuation) submitted comments to Docket No. FAA-2022-1001. United Spinal, as members of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation and Emergency Management Task Forces, United Spinal supported comments the Task Force Co-Chairs submitted. United Spinal also supported comments made by Paralyzed Veterans of America on Docket No. FAA-2022-1001. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel for people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal submitted written testimony for the hearing record of the House Committee On Transportation And Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation: Accessible air travel: addressing challenges for passengers with disabilities, held on November 17, 2022. United Spinals comments addressed the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration next year and our longstanding priority that the provisions of H.R.1696 - Air Carrier Access Amendments Act of 2021 (ACAAA) be included in the reauthorization. To ensure safer, more accessible air travel by people with disabilities, especially wheelchair users, United Spinal submitted comments in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on airline ticket refunds and airline consumer protections, DOT-OST-2022-0089. Co-sponsor and pass S. 642/H.R. 1696, the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAA) of 2021.

United Spinal Association supports HR 2168 / S 3193 Expanded Telehealth Access Act. United Spinal Association supports HR 3932 / S 2076 The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Up surging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act. United Spinal Association/VetsFirst supports The Advanced Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (A-START) Act of 2021. Increase Funding for Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems - House/Senate. Discussed the need for SCIMS increased funding and next steps with Director Anjali Forber-Pratt, Dir., NIDILRR. United Spinal Association raised concerns: regarding accessibility of COVID-19 tests; MA and Part D programs, notice of benefit and payment parameters; support CMS access to dental surgical services, support the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 6641); share concerns re the CMS ACA Exchange Rule; support the Health Data Use and Privacy Commission Act (S. 3620); shared concerns with CMS regarding access to DME in times of public health emergency. United Spinal advocacy and policy staff participated in a meeting with representatives from the CDC, CMS, and ACL urging the CDC to issue guidance on census reduction of nursing homes and other institutional settings as an infection control measure. United Spinal supported comments as part of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition on the draft Strategic Plan for the NIH Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity (COSWD). Support significant investment into home and community-based services and supports. Met with House and Senate in support of improvements in health equity (Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Health United States House of Representatives; testimony); SUPPORT EQUITABLE REFORMS TO THE MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE SCHEDULE; SUPPORT H.R. 944 TO ADDRESS SPECIALTY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGES IN RURAL AREAS; SUPPORT H.R. 2256/S. 834 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF GME RESIDENCY SLOTS; SUPPORT H.R. 2903/S. 1512; SUPPORT H.R. 5030/S.2706 TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY IN CLINICAL TRIALS TO PERMANENTLY EXPAND TELEHEALTH SERVICES