IV update and urgent action item

[Puneet S. Arora]

HELLO EVERYBODY,

Here is the latest update on the 3 bills:  HR 5882, HR 5921 & HR 6039

The phone calls are making a difference and there is a chance for getting the bills on the floor especially if 2 representatives decide to support us- Rep. Baca and Rep. Gutierrez. (Members who haven't called other CHC members/congressmen from other two lists should do that too-- as soon as possible)

"We have been told that these three bills including nurses bill has to be voted on the House floor before August recess. If no bill is considered on the House floor by August recess, we will have to wait till next year. Having said that, there is still a good chance for things to move in the House if Congressman Joe Baca and Gutierrez would agree to vote on these bills. All eyes and pressure should be applied at these two offices. We have been advised to keep our message in the phone conversations with these offices as follows -

1) "Why are you blocking the three Lofgren Bills"

This is not the end but beginning of the reform process. We have been consistent supports of comprehensive reform approach. These bills are providing interim relief and we will work with you for the larger fix for all communities including EB reform in the comprehensive bill.

2) "Will you request Speaker Pelosi to bring the three Lofgren bills on the House floor, because if these bills come on the house floor, we expect to see these bills pass by 2/3 majority."

If the person on the phone says that he/she will check with the congressman - say that -

"This is an important issue for a lot of us. Will you let me know Congressman's response when you speak with him"

If I may add, phone calls are working. In fact the word is that these offices have received

a lot of phone calls, even though it is not reflected in the IV forum threads. So the good news is that the "only road block" in the Senate - Sen. Menendez has agreed to allow our provisions to be brought up on the Senate floor for voting. It means that he has withdrawn his objection to consideration/vote for our provisions. This has increased possibility and probability for our provisions. So there is progress to report even with an extremely delicate balance on this issue.

The most important part is Congressman Joe Baca and Gutierrez. We should all call and speak with these two offices. 

Thanks,

Aman


For Congressman Joe Baca contact info is:

  Washington, D.C. Office
  1527 Longworth House Off. Bldg.
  Washington, D.C. 20515-0542
  (202)225-6161
  Fax: (202)225-8671

 For Congressman Gutierrez contact info is:

  2266 Rayburn Building
  Washington, DC 20515
  (202) 225-8203
  (202) 225-7810 Fax