Legislative Bulletin: September 2014 Update

LeadingAge New York government relations and policy staff have been busy since you last heard from us in June, and we’re sure you have been too. Now that summer vacations and the first day of school are behind us, we’re starting to look towards January and the 2015-16 Legislative Session already. Here are a few updates, alerts and some things to look forward to in 2015:

• 2015 Budgetary, Legislative and Regulatory Agenda: In late August, LeadingAge NY sent out this form to members to input their organizations’ priorities for the upcoming legislative session. If you have not yet filled out your priorities for the upcoming year, please do so immediately and send the form to Alyssa Lovelace at alovelace@leadingageny.org or fax it to 518-867-8384.
   
• Nurse-Staffing Ratios Already a Hot Topic: Advocates for nurse staffing ratios have already begun their campaign supporting legislation that would mandate nurse staffing ratios in hospitals and nursing homes. LeadingAge NY will continue its advocacy to oppose this legislation during the upcoming legislative session and is currently strategizing an opposition campaign. We will keep members updated on any new developments regarding nurse staffing ratios.
   
• CCRC Legislation Still Awaiting Governor’s Approval: Earlier this year, LeadingAge NY and the State’s CCRCs were successful in getting legislation passed that would allow CCRCs to provide Continuing Care at Home contracts to seniors who live in their own homes. We recently talked with the Governor’s office again about the legislation and remain hopeful that the bill will be signed into law. In the meantime, please send a letter urging the Governor to approve this legislation.
   
• Federal Advocacy Alert! In preparation for the lame duck session, LeadingAge National and LeadingAge NY continues active advocacy on Medicare observation days, funding for senior housing and reauthorization of HCBS programs under the Older Americans Act. You have a great opportunity to meet with your Congressional representatives in their district offices now that members of Congress are home and on the campaign trail. We’re happy to assist you if you’d like to meet with your lawmakers. For more advocacy information, click here.
   
• Save the Date: The LeadingAge New York and Adult Day Health Care Council Annual Advocacy Day will be held in Albany on Tues., Feb. 10, 2015. Registration and additional information will be available online next week.
   
• Save the Date: The 2015 LeadingAge New York PAC Golf Tournament will be held on Mon., May 18 at Ballston Spa Country Club – this is a new golf course we have been eager to try! Tee-off times, registration and sponsorship information will be available online soon.