THOMAS ETTEN

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act – in particular, the new Part-D benefit. Also monitored: HR 2356/S. 1081”Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005” ; S. 1356 “Medicare Value Purchasing ; S. 1002 “The Hospital Fair competition Act of 2005” re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals; S. 354/ S. 366/S. 367/ HR 534 medical liability reform proposals; and Proposals related to “pay for performance” initiatives.

Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. H.R. 2356/S.1081, Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005 S.1356, Medicare Value Purchasing Act of 2005 S.1002, The Hospital Fair Competition Act of 2005 - re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals S.1932, Deficit Reduction Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 2005 (SGR relief) H.R. 3547/S.1840, Safety Net Inpatient Drug Affordability Act HR 3559, Medicare Durable Medical Equipment Access Act of 2005 S.1081/HR 2356, Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005 S.1356, Medicare Value Purchasing Act of 2005

H.R. 810/S.471, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 S.658/H.R. 1357, Human Cloning Protection Act of 2005 S.1520, Human Cloning Ban Act of 2005 S.1373, Human Chimera Prohibition Act of 2005 S.470, Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the progress Monitored S. 1418 ‘Wired for Health Care Quality Access” Monitored S. 544 “Patient Safety & Quality Improvement Act of 2005” ,; monitored progress of medical liability reform proposals in the House and Senate; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Also monitored: HR 869/S. 45 re. removing the statutory limit on physician group practices that treat substance abuse patients Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability.

S.1418, Wired for Health Care Quality Act HR 3547, Safety Net Inpatient Drug Affordability Act

H.R. 810/S.471, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 S.658/H.R. 1357, Human Cloning Protection Act of 2005 S.1520, Human Cloning Ban Act of 2005 S.1373, Human Chimera Prohibition Act of 2005 S.470, Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005

H.R. 609, College Access and Opportunity Act of 2005 S.1932, Deficit Reduction Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 2005 (higher education title) S.1614, Higher Education Amendments of 2005 H.R. 507, College Access and Opportunity Act of 2005 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) Education

H.R. 2830, Pension Protection Act of 2005 S.1783, Pension Security and Transparency Act of 2005

H.R. 2830, Pension Protection Act of 2005 S.1783, Pension Security and Transparency Act of 2005

Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. H.R. 2356/S.1081, Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005 S.1356, Medicare Value Purchasing Act of 2005 S.1002, The Hospital Fair Competition Act of 2005 - re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals S.1932, Deficit Reduction Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 2005 (SGR relief) H.R. 3547/S.1840, Safety Net Inpatient Drug Affordability Act HR 3559, Medicare Durable Medical Equipment Access Act of 2005 S.1081/HR 2356, Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005 S.1356, Medicare Value Purchasing Act of 2005

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act – in particular, the new Part-D benefit. Also monitored: HR 2356/S. 1081”Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005” ; S. 1356 “Medicare Value Purchasing ; S. 1002 “The Hospital Fair competition Act of 2005” re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals; S. 354/ S. 366/S. 367/ HR 534 medical liability reform proposals; and Proposals related to “pay for performance” initiatives.

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act – in particular, the new Part-D benefit. Also monitored: HR 2356/S. 1081”Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005” ; S. 1356 “Medicare Value Purchasing ; S. 1002 “The Hospital Fair competition Act of 2005” re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals; S. 354/ S. 366/S. 367/ HR 534 medical liability reform proposals; and Proposals related to “pay for performance” initiatives.

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act – in particular, the new Part-D benefit. Also monitored: HR 2356/S. 1081”Preserving Patient Access to Physicians Act of 2005” ; S. 1356 “Medicare Value Purchasing ; S. 1002 “The Hospital Fair competition Act of 2005” re. the moratorium on physician-owned specialty hospitals; S. 354/ S. 366/S. 367/ HR 534 medical liability reform proposals; and Proposals related to “pay for performance” initiatives.

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the progress Monitored S. 1418 ‘Wired for Health Care Quality Access” Monitored S. 544 “Patient Safety & Quality Improvement Act of 2005” ,; monitored progress of medical liability reform proposals in the House and Senate; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Also monitored: HR 869/S. 45 re. removing the statutory limit on physician group practices that treat substance abuse patients Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability.

HR 810/S. 471 “The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005” communicated with and met in person with House and Senate staff regarding the scientific and ethical implications of both embryonic and adult stem cell research; requested that members of the Maryland delegation co-sponsor the legislation; participated in advocacy activities in conjunction with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR), the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) towards the passage of the House bill and a strategy for passage in the Senate; Also monitored other stem cell related legislation , including that addressing: human cloning (S. 658/HR 1357) and regulation of so-called chimeras. Also monitored: S. 470 ‘Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005) Responded to inquiries from the Maryland House delegation re. the participation of foster children in federally sponsored HIV/AIDS research protocols. Monitored issues involved with federal effort reporting requirements in conjunction with the Association of American Univiersities (AAU), the Amercian Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC), and the Council on Government Relations (COGR). In conjuction with efforts undertaken by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), prepared and submitted unsolicited comments related to new conflict of interest rules proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services with respect to employees of the National Institutes of Health

H.R. 810/S.471, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 S.658/H.R. 1357, Human Cloning Protection Act of 2005 S.1520, Human Cloning Ban Act of 2005 S.1373, Human Chimera Prohibition Act of 2005 S.470, Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005

H.R. 810/S.471, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 S.658/H.R. 1357, Human Cloning Protection Act of 2005 S.1520, Human Cloning Ban Act of 2005 S.1373, Human Chimera Prohibition Act of 2005 S.470, Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005

HR 810/S. 471 “The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005” communicated with and met in person with House and Senate staff regarding the scientific and ethical implications of both embryonic and adult stem cell research; requested that members of the Maryland delegation co-sponsor the legislation; participated in advocacy activities in conjunction with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR), the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) towards the passage of the House bill and a strategy for passage in the Senate; Also monitored other stem cell related legislation , including that addressing: human cloning (S. 658/HR 1357) and regulation of so-called chimeras. Also monitored: S. 470 ‘Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005) Responded to inquiries from the Maryland House delegation re. the participation of foster children in federally sponsored HIV/AIDS research protocols. Monitored issues involved with federal effort reporting requirements in conjunction with the Association of American Univiersities (AAU), the Amercian Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC), and the Council on Government Relations (COGR). In conjuction with efforts undertaken by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), prepared and submitted unsolicited comments related to new conflict of interest rules proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services with respect to employees of the National Institutes of Health

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the progress Monitored S. 1418 ‘Wired for Health Care Quality Access” Monitored S. 544 “Patient Safety & Quality Improvement Act of 2005” ,; monitored progress of medical liability reform proposals in the House and Senate; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Also monitored: HR 869/S. 45 re. removing the statutory limit on physician group practices that treat substance abuse patients Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability.

H.R. 810/S.471, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 S.658/H.R. 1357, Human Cloning Protection Act of 2005 S.1520, Human Cloning Ban Act of 2005 S.1373, Human Chimera Prohibition Act of 2005 S.470, Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005

HR 810/S. 471 “The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005” communicated with and met in person with House and Senate staff regarding the scientific and ethical implications of both embryonic and adult stem cell research; requested that members of the Maryland delegation co-sponsor the legislation; participated in advocacy activities in conjunction with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR), the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) towards the passage of the House bill and a strategy for passage in the Senate; Also monitored other stem cell related legislation , including that addressing: human cloning (S. 658/HR 1357) and regulation of so-called chimeras. Also monitored: S. 470 ‘Fair Access to Clinical Trials (FACT) Act of 2005) Responded to inquiries from the Maryland House delegation re. the participation of foster children in federally sponsored HIV/AIDS research protocols. Monitored issues involved with federal effort reporting requirements in conjunction with the Association of American Univiersities (AAU), the Amercian Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC), and the Council on Government Relations (COGR). In conjuction with efforts undertaken by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), prepared and submitted unsolicited comments related to new conflict of interest rules proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services with respect to employees of the National Institutes of Health

HR 3010/S (not yet reported), “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006”: worked on the following items: an increase to the National Institutes of Health budget; amendments to the House-reported bill to eliminate funding of certain NIH grants already approved through the peer review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Also worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, increase to Federal Work-Study, increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations HR 2862 providing funding for Science, State, Justice and Commerce programs/ S. (not yet reported) providing funding for Commerce, Justice and Science programs worked on AAU’s advocacy for an increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; for the Office of Earth Science and an increase for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked to obtain funding for a Nanobiotechnology Institute (through NASA); also supported through AAU advocacy increasing the NSF budget HR 3058 providing funding for Transportation, Treasury, HUD, Judiciary and the District of Columbia/S. (not yet reported) providing funding for Transportation, Treasury, Judiciary and HUD: Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked through the AAU for continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) as opposed to and applied (6.2) research; specifically addressed the need for a new Center of Excellence in Military Low Vision Research. Monitored: H. Con. Res. 95 the fiscal year 2006 Concurrent Resolution on the Budget with respect to: research funding at NIH, NSF, DOD, CDC and NASA and proposed reconciliation instructions for reductions in student aid and Medicare or Medicaid programs.

HR 3010/S (not yet reported), “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006”: worked on the following items: an increase to the National Institutes of Health budget; amendments to the House-reported bill to eliminate funding of certain NIH grants already approved through the peer review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Also worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, increase to Federal Work-Study, increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations HR 2862 providing funding for Science, State, Justice and Commerce programs/ S. (not yet reported) providing funding for Commerce, Justice and Science programs worked on AAU’s advocacy for an increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; for the Office of Earth Science and an increase for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked to obtain funding for a Nanobiotechnology Institute (through NASA); also supported through AAU advocacy increasing the NSF budget HR 3058 providing funding for Transportation, Treasury, HUD, Judiciary and the District of Columbia/S. (not yet reported) providing funding for Transportation, Treasury, Judiciary and HUD: Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked through the AAU for continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) as opposed to and applied (6.2) research; specifically addressed the need for a new Center of Excellence in Military Low Vision Research. Monitored: H. Con. Res. 95 the fiscal year 2006 Concurrent Resolution on the Budget with respect to: research funding at NIH, NSF, DOD, CDC and NASA and proposed reconciliation instructions for reductions in student aid and Medicare or Medicaid programs.

Monitored: HR 3261, “Database and Collections of Information Misappropriation Act” HR 2517, “Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2003” HR 107, “Digital Media Consumers' Rights Act of 2003” S.2560, “Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004” Patent legislation The CREATE Act NIH proposal regarding public access to articles resulting from sponsored research

Monitored: HR 3261, “Database and Collections of Information Misappropriation Act” HR 2517, “Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2003” HR 107, “Digital Media Consumers' Rights Act of 2003” S.2560, “Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004” Patent legislation The CREATE Act NIH proposal regarding public access to articles resulting from sponsored research

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Monitored: HR 3261, “Database and Collections of Information Misappropriation Act” HR 2517, “Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2003” HR 107, “Digital Media Consumers' Rights Act of 2003” S.2560, “Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004” Patent legislation The CREATE Act NIH proposal regarding public access to articles resulting from sponsored research

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

HR 4283 “College Access and Opportunity Act of 2004”, Worked collaboratively the university community positions on the Reauthorization of Higher Education Act. Visited offices of all ten members of the Maryland Delegation. Worked toward increased access to higher education for low-income students by strengthening support for grants and early intervention programs, particularly the Pell Grant program; increase in financial aid support for graduate education through GAANN, Javits and FLAS fellowship and grant programs; increased access to both undergraduate and graduate education by raising student loan borrowing limits. Communicated by letter to leadership in both House and Senate Committees regarding the omission of “experimental site” designations within the reauthorization bill. This program provides for more flexible means of calculating individual student aid packages; reducing the regulatory burden on universities; ensuring accountability of institutions through an accreditation system and provides a decentralized system of higher education accreditation. Monitored proposal from Department of Education to require individual student unit record reporting.

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the Collaborative’s progress. Monitored HR 663 and S.720, both Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Acts that create voluntary systems for tracking medical errors and promise confidentiality to hospitals and doctors; monitored HR 5, “Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2003,” that sets a cap on medical liability; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored S.15, “Project BioShield Act of 2004” Monitored legislation and raised awareness of potential Toomey–type amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability. Monitored the shortage of flu vaccine and attempts to obtain vaccine from Canada. Monitored NIH and Congressional review of the use of federal funds for HIV research in Uganda.

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

HR 5041/S 2825*HR 4818, Supported the requests on behalf of the East Baltimore Development Inc. for the support in FY 2005 HUD/VA Appropriations bill for redevelopment activities including large-scale property acquisition and demolition; economic development and job creation as well as re-development of housing anchored by a biotech facility located near Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the Collaborative’s progress. Monitored HR 663 and S.720, both Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Acts that create voluntary systems for tracking medical errors and promise confidentiality to hospitals and doctors; monitored HR 5, “Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2003,” that sets a cap on medical liability; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored S.15, “Project BioShield Act of 2004” Monitored legislation and raised awareness of potential Toomey–type amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability. Monitored the shortage of flu vaccine and attempts to obtain vaccine from Canada. Monitored NIH and Congressional review of the use of federal funds for HIV research in Uganda.

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the Collaborative’s progress. Monitored HR 663 and S.720, both Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Acts that create voluntary systems for tracking medical errors and promise confidentiality to hospitals and doctors; monitored HR 5, “Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2003,” that sets a cap on medical liability; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored S.15, “Project BioShield Act of 2004” Monitored legislation and raised awareness of potential Toomey–type amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability. Monitored the shortage of flu vaccine and attempts to obtain vaccine from Canada. Monitored NIH and Congressional review of the use of federal funds for HIV research in Uganda.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

Monitored: HR 3261, “Database and Collections of Information Misappropriation Act” HR 2517, “Piracy Deterrence and Education Act of 2003” HR 107, “Digital Media Consumers' Rights Act of 2003” S.2560, “Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004” Patent legislation The CREATE Act NIH proposal regarding public access to articles resulting from sponsored research

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

Kept Maryland Delegation apprised of concerns associated with the growing Medicare population and the pressures this presents for the healthcare system. Continued to appeal to CMS to adjust the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (formula) SGR. Met with HHS staff in the office of the Director for Medicare Services to discuss SGR and opportunities to design demo projects. Monitored the implementation of the Medicare Modernization Act. Tracking: HR 4903, "Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Accountability Act of 2004" S.2725, "Closing the Coverage Gap Act of 2004" S.2766, "Prescription Drug and Health Improvement Act of 2004" HR 4919, "Medicare Drug Card Guaranteed Savings Act" HR4898/S.2535, "Medicare Preventative Services Coverage Act of 2004" HR 4491, "Hobson amendment"

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

HR 5041/S 2825*HR 4818, Supported the requests on behalf of the East Baltimore Development Inc. for the support in FY 2005 HUD/VA Appropriations bill for redevelopment activities including large-scale property acquisition and demolition; economic development and job creation as well as re-development of housing anchored by a biotech facility located near Johns Hopkins Hospital.

HR 5006/S 2810**HR 4818, “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on the following items: an increase of 10 percent to the National Institutes of Health budget; potential Toomey-type amendments in the FY 2005 Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill, which stands to alter the funding of certain NIH grant review processes; the advocacy effort for increased funding for extramural facilities construction through the National Institutes of Health. Supported funding request of $1.5 million for “OR-1” a state-of-the-art operating suite for use in minimally invasive surgery. Also supported funding request for Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), to prepare the healthcare enterprise for potential critical events. Worked on expanding a variety of student financial assistance programs such as Pell Grant appropriation to $14 billion, $115 million increase to the Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, $157 million increase to Federal Work-Study, $40.6 million increase to the Perkins Loan Program, and increase to the GAANN/Javits fellowships. Supported expansion of the Nursing Reinvestment Act funding health professions appropriations within Labor, HHS appropriations bill. HR 4118/S *HR 4818, Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2005”: Discussed maintenance of research funding at the National Science Foundation and at the Department of Energy with particular emphasis in investing in basic research. HR 5041/S. 2825**HR 4818 “Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on AAU’s advocacy for a $7.7 billion increase in NASA Science, Aeronautics and Exploration activities; $34 million additional for the Office of Earth Science and an increase of $39 million for the Office of Biological and Physical Research; specifically worked on continued funding for the Solar Probe which provides for the next mission at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and for $2 million for 8 FTE for NASA Contract Office at APL, Space Department; the NSF budget of $6.4 billion with particular support for the graduate programs like the Graduate Research Fellowship and support for funding areas to support the Nanotechnology Consortium in Maryland; continued support from EPA for the Center for Urban Asthma Studies and $250 thousand to conduct a review of the Baltimore region air quality data. Supported funding requests made for East Baltimore Development Inc., funding requests for emergency preparedness, and funding request for operating room equipment. HR 4567/S 2537, “Homeland Security Act, 2005”: urged appropriations for a Science and Technology Directorate and new funding for science and technology as well as university-based research within the Homeland Security area. Bioterrorism – Homeland Security Act: expressed concern over the flow of funds designated for improvements to the medical emergency preparedness and response system. HR 4613/S 2559, “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005”: worked on continued growth in support for DOD Science, with particular emphasis on basic (6.1) and applied (6.2) research; the proposed “devolvement” of certain S&T programs and the transfer of the National Security Education Program to DOE. HR4818/S 2812, “Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and related programs Appropriation Act, 2005”: worked on report language in support of the Center for Public Health and Human Rights.

Monitored: HR 4682, “Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2004” HR 4812, “Stem Cell Discovery Through Diversity Act" S.303, “Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2003” HR 4531, “Ronald Reagan Memorial Stem Cell Research Act of 2004” S.2533/HR 4595, "Ronald Reagan Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2004" (also discussed this bill with members of MD Delegation) HR 3960, “Stem Cell Replenishment Act of 2004” HR 2852, “Stem Cell Act of 2003” S.1717, “Cord Blood Stem Cell Act of 2003” Worked with the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical research to track such issues. Requested that Maryland Congressional Delegation sign letter appealing to President Bush to expand policy concerning stem cell research. Wrote to NIH regarding position on a request to invoke march-in proceedings for patent rights on two pharmaceuticals.

Communicated several issues concerning academic health centers to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and his office including: implementation of HIPAA rules, the development of regional electronic patient record systems, and concerns about physician reimbursement rates, medical liability, patient safety, bioterrorism and facilities and administration support. Worked in cooperation with AAMC and AHA to appeal to CMS to consider adjustments to the Medicare sustainable growth rate formula. Johns Hopkins is part of the Maryland/DC Collaborative for Healthcare Information Technology (formerly Maryland/DC E-Health Initiative) to develop and implement a regional electronic patient record system. Continue to keep all members of the Maryland Delegation apprised of the Collaborative’s progress. Monitored HR 663 and S.720, both Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Acts that create voluntary systems for tracking medical errors and promise confidentiality to hospitals and doctors; monitored HR 5, “Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2003,” that sets a cap on medical liability; and monitored any Congressional activity that may result from recent court decisions regarding patent infringement claims. Advocated funding and monitored NIH and NSF budgets along with the Association of American Universities (AAU) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)-see budget section. Monitored S.15, “Project BioShield Act of 2004” Monitored legislation and raised awareness of potential Toomey–type amendments, which would potentially alter the funding of specific NIH-sponsored research projects that had undergone the established peer review processes. Continue to monitor legislative efforts on patient safety, physician reimbursement rates, quality improvement and medical liability. Monitored the shortage of flu vaccine and attempts to obtain vaccine from Canada. Monitored NIH and Congressional review of the use of federal funds for HIV research in Uganda.

S.839/HR 1556, American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support; S.326/HR 975, Home Health Fairness Act of 2001: advocated for support and co-sponsorship; S.1707/HR 3351, Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act: advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care," 66 Fed.Reg. 43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payments directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments); monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation; Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

Database protection legislation poses a threat to free flow of information and the public domain. Any database protection bill must allow fair use of databases comparable to that under copyright law and permit downstream transformative use of fact and government-produced data contained in a database; advocated opposition to HR 354 and support for HR 1858.

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172,Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Representative James Greenwood);S.790,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.1893,Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001(Senator Tom Harkin;S.1899,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Sen.Sam Brownback) ;S.2439,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002(Senator Arlen Specter); Monitored the following stem cell research bills:HR 2059,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Representative Jim McDermott);S.723,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23,2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU,therefore,supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning.

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172,Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Representative James Greenwood);S.790,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.1893,Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001(Senator Tom Harkin;S.1899,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Sen.Sam Brownback) ;S.2439,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002(Senator Arlen Specter); Monitored the following stem cell research bills:HR 2059,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Representative Jim McDermott);S.723,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23,2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU,therefore,supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning.

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172, Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Representative James Greenwood); S.790, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback); S.1893, Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001 (Senator Tom Harkin);S.1899, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.2439, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002 (Senator Arlen Specter);Monitored the following stem cell research bills: HR 2059, Stem Cell Research Act of 2001 (Representative Jim McDermott;S.723, Stem Cell Research Act of 2001 (Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23, 2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU therefore supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning."

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172,Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Representative James Greenwood);S.790,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.1893,Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001(Senator Tom Harkin;S.1899,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Sen.Sam Brownback) ;S.2439,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002(Senator Arlen Specter); Monitored the following stem cell research bills:HR 2059,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Representative Jim McDermott);S.723,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23,2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU,therefore,supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning.

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172,Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Representative James Greenwood);S.790,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.1893,Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001(Senator Tom Harkin;S.1899,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001(Sen.Sam Brownback) ;S.2439,Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002(Senator Arlen Specter); Monitored the following stem cell research bills:HR 2059,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Representative Jim McDermott);S.723,Stem Cell Research Act of 2001(Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23,2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU,therefore,supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning.

Monitored the following human cloning bills:S.1758, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Dianne Feinstein);HR 2172, Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Representative James Greenwood); S.790, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback); S.1893, Human Cloning Ban and Stem Cell Research Protection Act of 2001 (Senator Tom Harkin);S.1899, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2001 (Senator Sam Brownback);S.2439, Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2002 (Senator Arlen Specter);Monitored the following stem cell research bills: HR 2059, Stem Cell Research Act of 2001 (Representative Jim McDermott;S.723, Stem Cell Research Act of 2001 (Senator Arlen Specter);Supported Association of American Universities (AAU) Statement on Human Cloning, adopted by AAU membership on April 23, 2002, and sent to Senate leadership shortly thereafter. Johns Hopkins supported the AAU position which "opposes human reproductive cloning, and supports legislation to ban this practice." The statement continues to "support both basic and applied stem cell research. AAU therefore supports nuclear transplantation to produce stem cells, also known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as nonreproductive cloning, as therapeutic cloning."

PL 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions;HR 3487/S.1864, Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill(Kennedy/Frist) and House bill, HR 4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543, Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR 2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001 (Representative Ben Cardin): a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236, Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001 (Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves;monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system; Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portabiliy and Accountability Act (HIPAA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions;HR 3487/S.1864, Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill(Kennedy/Frist) and House bill, HR 4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543, Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR 2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001 (Representative Ben Cardin): a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236, Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001 (Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves;monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system; Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portabiliy and Accountability Act (HIPAA)privacy regulations.

S.839/HR 1556, American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support; S.326/HR 975, Home Health Fairness Act of 2001: advocated for support and co-sponsorship; S.1707/HR 3351, Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act: advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care," 66 Fed.Reg. 43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payments directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments); monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation; Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

PL 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions;HR 3487/S.1864, Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill(Kennedy/Frist) and House bill, HR 4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543, Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR 2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001 (Representative Ben Cardin): a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236, Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001 (Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves;monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system; Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portabiliy and Accountability Act (HIPAA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

S.1749/HR 3525,Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2001:advocated for support of senate bill which would strengthen the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System(SEVIS)program and will permit more careful monitoring and sharing of information about international students;expressed concerns in both bills regarding additional reporting requirements, electronic sharing and gathering of information and fees.

Database protection legislation poses a threat to free flow of information and the public domain. Any database protection bill must allow fair use of databases comparable to that under copyright law and permit downstream transformative use of fact and government-produced data contained in a database; advocated opposition to HR 354 and support for HR 1858.

HR 4546, National Defense Authorization Act for FY2003:monitored and tracked legislation;S.2794/HR 5005,Homeland Security Act of 2002:monitored and tracked legislation.

HR 4546, National Defense Authorization Act for FY2003:monitored and tracked legislation;S.2794/HR 5005,Homeland Security Act of 2002:monitored and tracked legislation.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions;HR 3487/S.1864, Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill(Kennedy/Frist) and House bill, HR 4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543, Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR 2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001 (Representative Ben Cardin): a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236, Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001 (Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves;monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system; Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portabiliy and Accountability Act (HIPAA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions;HR 3487/S.1864, Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill(Kennedy/Frist) and House bill, HR 4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543, Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR 2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001 (Representative Ben Cardin): a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236, Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001 (Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves;monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient, Accessible, Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system; Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portabiliy and Accountability Act (HIPAA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

PL104-191,Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act:advocated through formal comment process to seek changes and modifications in HIPAA with respect to treatment of patient privacy and charitable contributions; HR3487/S.1864,Nurse Reinvestment Act:monitored progress of negotiations of informal conference committee seeking compromise;Monitored progress of Senate bill (Kennedy/Frist)and House bill, HR4697,Human Research Subject Protections Act of 2002, which would increase the protection of participants in human subject research;S.543,Mental Health Equitable Treatment Act of 2001:monitored bill which would provide for equal coverage of mental health benefits with respect to health insurance coverage;monitored HR2178,All-Payer Graduate Medical Education Act of 2001(Representative Ben Cardin):a bill to provide comprehensive financing for graduate medical education;monitored HR 3236,Patient and Physician Safety and Protection Act of 2001(Representative Conyers):to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the work hours and increase the supervision of resident-physicians to ensure the safety of patients and resident-physicians themselves; monitored HR 4600, The Help Efficient,Accessible,Low Cost, Timely Health Care Act of 2001(Representative Jim Greenwood):to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system;Provided comments to Maryland Senators in response to hearing before the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee(4/16/02) on proposed amendments to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPA)privacy regulations.

Worked with Maryland senators and Congressman Cummings to add language to 2002 Supplemental Appropriations bill, HR 4775, which has now become part of Public Law 107-206, to extend Section 8 assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Contract.

Worked with Maryland senators and Congressman Cummings to add language to 2002 Supplemental Appropriations bill, HR 4775, which has now become part of Public Law 107-206, to extend Section 8 assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Contract. The following language was included: Section 1305. For purpose of facilitating the sale of Stafford Apartments (FHA Project No:052-44163) for use as student housing. Subsections 1,2,3,4 and 5 were included. Met with Senator Mikulski to pursue funding for the demolition and relocation of housing surrounding the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Options explored were HUD and Transportation. No funding received in this time frame.

Worked with Maryland senators and Congressman Cummings to add language to 2002 Supplemental Appropriations bill, HR 4775, which has now become part of Public Law 107-206, to extend Section 8 assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Contract. The following language was included: Section 1305. For purpose of facilitating the sale of Stafford Apartments (FHA Project No:052-44163) for use as student housing. Subsections 1,2,3,4 and 5 were included. Met with Senator Mikulski to pursue funding for the demolition and relocation of housing surrounding the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Options explored were HUD and Transportation. No funding received in this time frame.

S.839/HR 1556, American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support; S.326/HR 975, Home Health Fairness Act of 2001: advocated for support and co-sponsorship; S.1707/HR 3351, Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act: advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care," 66 Fed.Reg. 43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payments directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments); monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation; Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

S.839/HR 1556,American Hospital Preservation Act of 2001:advocated for support;S.326/HR 975,Home Health Fairness Act of 2001:advocated for support and co-sponsorship;S.1707/HR 3351,Medicare Physician Payment Fairness Act:advocated for support;Proposed Rule (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)entitled, "Medicaid Program;Medicaid Managed Care,"66 Fed.Reg.43614 (August 20,2001):advocated and supported interpretation of rule which would allow state Medicaid programs to continue to make payment directly to teaching hospitals that are under contract with Medicaid managed care plans, to help offset the higher costs associated with the special missions of teaching hospitals (so-called direct graduate medical payments);monitored Medicare reform and Prescription Drug Benefit legislation;Monitored HR 4954, The Medicare Modernization and Prescription Drug Act of 2002.

HR 4546, National Defense Authorization Act for FY2003:monitored and tracked legislation;S.2794/HR 5005,Homeland Security Act of 2002:monitored and tracked legislation.