# data[].attributes.body
Information on why Boston will not provide drive through polling stations

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As NBA arenas across the country turn into voting sites for the November general election, the home of the Boston Celtics will not transform into a polling place.

TD Garden said it "unfortunately" cannot be a voting location because of a city of Boston election deadline rule.

"Unfortunately, TD Garden is not eligible to be a voting site because the city requires approval of voting sites at least 20 days prior to the statewide primaries, which are Sept. 1, and to be open for both the statewide primaries and the Nov. 3 general election so as to avoid voters being confused by a change in voting sites," TD Garden said in a statement.

"Nevertheless, TD Garden is supportive and will amplify voting promotion through exposure on our highway-visible digital billboard and reinforcement through our social channels," TD Garden added.

NBA arenas across the country will become polling places in the wake of players protesting police brutality and racial inequality. As part of the deal to resume the playoffs, the NBA agreed on working to convert arenas into voting sites.

"In every city where the league franchise owns and controls the arena property, team governors will continue to work with local elections officials to convert the facility into a voting location for the 2020 general election to allow for a safe in-person voting option for communities vulnerable to COVID," reads the NBA statement.

New York City, for example, has announced that it will make Madison Square Garden - home of the New York Knicks - an early voting and Election Day polling site.

The STAPLES Center - home of the Los Angeles Lakers - will also serve as a polling place in the upcoming general election.

In addition to TD Garden not being a voting location in Boston, Fenway Park will also not make the cut for polling places this year.

"We appreciate the collective goodwill of partner organizations who are committed to ensure voting is fair, safe and accessible to all residents in Boston. However, at this time, neither Fenway Park nor TD Garden will be polling locations for the upcoming elections, as the City of Boston has a legal obligation to set all polling locations within 20 days of an election," a city spokeswoman said in a statement.

The Celtics do not own TD Garden.

TD Garden is owned by Delaware North - and the chairman of Delaware North, Jeremy Jacobs, owns the Boston Bruins.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Boston's TD Garden will not be voting site, while many NBA arenas convert into polling places

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As NBA arenas across the country turn into voting sites for the November general election, the home of the Boston Celtics will not transform into a polling place. TD Garden said it "unfortunately" cannot be a voting location because of a city of Boston election deadline rule.

# data[].attributes.body
Voting early in Boston (in person or by mail)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For the State Election on Tuesday, November 3, the early voting period takes place from Saturday, October 17, through Friday, October 30.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Action Needed!

Our profession is facing Medicare payment cuts, and we need you and your patients and clients to take action to ensure Congress steps in.

Over the past year, APTA and our members have sent thousands of letters to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services raising concerns about these cuts and providing recommendations to address the problem. CMS has not responded.

We're now calling on Congress to prevent these pending 9% cuts, which will reduce patient access and create instability in the health care system.
Learn More and Take Action

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our profession is facing Medicare payment cuts, and we need you and your patients and clients to take action to ensure Congress steps in. Over the past year, APTA and our members have sent thousands of letters to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services raising concerns about these cuts and providing recommendations to address the problem.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
House Process

The annual business of the House follows parliamentary procedure and is conducted through the introduction of delegate-proposed motions, which may amend APTA's bylaws, direct a course of action, articulate an association attitude on the physical therapy needs of the public or the needs of members, or describe a goal the association wishes to achieve.

The House begins with an opening ceremony and ends with a closing ceremony. Elections for the national offices of APTA are held while the House is in session.

About Motions

A main motion is the means by which business is brought before the House. A main motion, if adopted, becomes the official recorded statement of action taken by the House. Main motions, other than bylaw amendments, should direct a course of action, articulate an association attitude on the physical therapy needs of the public or the needs of members, or describe a goal the association wishes to achieve.

Bylaw amendments are a type of motion directed at changing APTA's bylaws, the association's internal governing rules. Current APTA bylaws make it easier to amend the bylaws in years ending in zero (0) and five (5). In years ending in other than zero or five, it requires the consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the component delegates to consider a proposed bylaw amendment.

While bylaw amendments and main motions must be submitted to APTA's National Governance and Leadership department by the published deadlines, it is encouraged that all motions be discussed and developed year round. The main motions for the 2020 House of Delegates can be found on the House of Delegates community.

Proposing a Main Motion to the House

Please visit the Motion Making Tools and Resources section of the House of Delegates HUB to find out more about proposing a motion.

You may find the delegate education modules helpful as they will guide you through the process and help you understand the facets of the House.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The annual business of the House follows parliamentary procedure and is conducted through the introduction of delegate-proposed motions, which may amend APTA's bylaws, direct a course of action, articulate an association attitude on the physical therapy needs of the public or the needs of members, or describe a goal the association wishes to achieve.

# data[].attributes.headline
APTA - 2020 House of Delegates Election Results Announced

# data[].attributes.subject
APTA - 2020 House of Delegates Election Results Announced

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The following members were elected to APTA's Board of Directors and Nominating Committee on Monday, June 1, at the 2020 House of Delegates, conducted virtually.

Jeanine Gunn, PT, DPT, was elected treasurer.

William (Bill) McGehee, PT, PhD, was elected speaker of the House of Delegates.

Dan Mills, PT, MPT, was reelected director, and Skye Donovan, PT, PhD, and Victoria Tilley, PT, were elected director.

John DeWitt, PT, DPT, ATC, and Leiselle Pilgrim, PT, DPT, MPH, were elected to the Nominating Committee.

These terms become effective at the close of the House of Delegates on Wednesday.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
APTA 2020 House of Delegates Election Results Announced

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The following members were elected to APTA's Board of Directors and Nominating Committee on Monday, June 1, at the 2020 House of Delegates, conducted virtually. Jeanine Gunn, PT, DPT, was elected treasurer. William (Bill) McGehee, PT, PhD, was elected speaker of the House of Delegates.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
PAs and Advocacy: The Power of the Individual

2018 promises to be a big year for PAs - a year of powerful change and growth for the profession, and also a real opportunity to enact key legislative priorities that can have an impact for decades to come. As AAPA's advocacy team has said before, it is critically important for individual PAs to be involved in creating change for the profession, whether it's through grassroots advocacy, contributing to PA PAC, or even renewing your AAPA membership. These actions can have a huge impact on the success of our federal advocacy efforts. However, individual PAs often wonder just how big an impact they alone can make.

PA PAC: One of the easiest ways PAs can get involved is to contribute to AAPA's political action committee, PA PAC. The only federal healthcare PAC dedicated to advancing the PA profession, PA PAC supports the election and re-election of current Congressional leaders and candidates for Congress who are champions for PAs and who embrace and promote the inclusion of PAs in healthcare policy. PA PAC provides an opportunity for PAs across the nation to elevate and amplify the profession's message and voice on Capitol Hill. Support from individual PAs - no matter how large or how small - can help AAPA ensure that our champions remain in Congress.

California PA Jeremy Adler, PA-C, DFAAPA, says that he contributes to PA PAC because it has the potential to improve his ability to practice. "Every day we use our PA professional services to improve the lives of patients, but so much of our ability to practice is influenced directly by lawmakers, policymakers, and others. To make good policy decisions, these individuals need to be well educated about the PA profession" he says.

And while large contributions to PA PAC are certainly appreciated, it is the many, many small gifts from PAs across the country that add up and make the PAC what it has grown to today. In fact, in 2016, the average gift size was $48. If every member PA contributed just $35, PA PAC would be the largest healthcare PAC in the country. It is true that a little - especially when combined with gifts from others - can have a BIG impact. As Adler stated, "Ultimately, every PA should contribute to the PA PAC, which will, in turn, enable PAs to better provide care of patients."

Grassroots Advocacy: PAs often don't realize the power they have as constituents - that legislators want to hear from PAs, want to hear their powerful stories and thoughts on key issues before Congress. And when AAPA urges advocates to reach out to legislators, PAs need to know it doesn't take thousands of them to make a difference. Actually, there is GREAT strength in even a few advocate voices.

Recently the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) asked legislators the following: "Approximately how many email messages from constituents does it take for your office to consider taking the action requested?" The responses reinforced what we've been telling PA advocates for years: personalized, individual communications from constituents can significantly influence congressional decisions, especially when the letters contain an example or are from an advocate who has built a relationship with that office. CMF reports that nearly 90 percent of Congressional offices reported that 50 or fewer personalized letters or emails from constituents will influence legislators' decisions, with more than half (55 percent) agreeing that it often takes fewer than 10. When done with a compelling example or story, communications from individual PA advocates can have a huge impact on the legislator's decision-making and can make a real difference for the profession, and for patients.

Former AAPA president Larry Herman, PA-C, MPA, DFAAPA, says that getting involved, whether it's through grassroots advocacy or PAC contributions, helps the voice of the PA profession stand out above others in DC. "Without being heard, and with all of the cacophony of competitive voices today, PAs might as well be silent. When people do not speak up, then others make decisions for them. And those decisions are most commonly not to the benefit of that unheard group."

The action of individual PAs can make a significant impact on the future of the profession. We look forward to hearing from you in 2018 as we move forward, together. To learn more about PA PAC and how to communicate with legislators on priority issues, visit AAPA's Advocacy Central.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
PAs and Advocacy: The Power of the Individual - AAPA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
PAs can create change for the profession through grassroots advocacy or donating to PA PAC. PAs often don't realize the power they have as constituents - that legislators want to hear from PAs. PAC support from PAS can help ensure our champions remain in Congress.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Rebecca Austill-Clausen, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, AOTA member for 43 years

"Active involvement with AOTA provides me with the latest information on occupational therapy practice, updates on legislative and political issues, and the opportunity to impact governmental regulations through supporting advocacy and political action initiatives."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"Active involvement with AOTA provides me with the latest information on occupational therapy practice, updates on legislative and political issues, and the opportunity to impact governmental regulations through supporting advocacy and political action initiatives."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Welcome! AAPA's Political Action Committee, PA PAC, supports candidates for Congress (both Republicans and Democrats) who are committed to the principles that drive the PA profession.

You must be a member of AAPA in order to support AAPA PAC.
LOG IN TO DONATE JOIN NOW

PA PAC 2019 Annual Report

American Academy of PAs Political Action Committee. Annual Report. Available to members only.
READ REPORT

PA PAC: Myths and Facts

American Academy of PAs Political Action Committee. Myths and Facts. Available to members only.
DOWNLOAD DOCUMENT

PA PAC Board of Trustees 2020/2021

Gregory Burns, DHSc, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA (Chair)

David Jackson, DHSc, PA-C, PRP, DFAAPA (Chair-elect)

Kris Pyles-Sweet, MS, PA-C (Trustee)

Alan Bybee, PA-C, DFAAPA, CPAAPA (Immediate Past Chair)

Lisa Gables, Interim Chief Executive Officer, AAPA (Treasurer)

Tillie Fowler, AAPA Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Government Relations (Assistant Treasurer)

Kristin Butterfield, AAPA Director of Grassroots and Political Advocacy, Ex-officio

Who can contribute to the PA PAC?

Individual members of AAPA, as well as AAPA employees, may contribute to PA PAC. Federal law prohibits AAPA from using member dues for political contributions. PA PAC is funded through voluntary, individual contributions from AAPA members and employees only. AAPA cannot accept contributions from corporations, non-members, and non-U.S. citizens. Federal law requires PA PAC to collect and report the name, address, occupation and employer of individuals contributing more than $200 in a calendar year. Contributions to PA PAC are not tax deductible as charitable contributions.

Questions? Contact Kristin Butterfield, Director, Grassroots and Political Advocacy, at [email protected] for more information.
LOG IN TO DONATE

Read factsheets on current AAPA policy priorities, including fighting the opioid epidemic and advancing the PA profession.

Find AAPA's communications with Congress, including letters and comments on legislation. The advocacy team promotes our priorities and the PA profession.

Read the latest communications from AAPA to federal agencies and find out how AAPA works to promote the profession through regulatory advocacy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
AAPA Political Action Committee: PA PAC - AAPA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome! AAPA's Political Action Committee, PA PAC, supports candidates for Congress (both Republicans and Democrats) who are committed to the principles that drive the PA profession. You must be a member of AAPA in order to support AAPA PAC. LOG IN TO DONATE JOIN NOW American Academy of PAs Political Action Committee.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Genetic and genomic innovation has made leaps and bounds to improve people's health. As the technology has evolved, many delivery models have integrated genetic counselors into the healthcare team so that patients and their family members have access to them.

Indeed, the genetic counselor profession has grown rapidly and by year's end, there will be well over 5,000 genetic counselors practicing across the country. This number should almost double in the next ten years to continue to meet the steady demand for our services. Most health plans reimburse genetic counselors and genetic counseling. In addition, delivery models are becoming even more diversified so that genetic counselors are available remotely to patients and other providers by phone and through telehealth.

Medicare Coverage and Reimbursement: A Challenge to Access

The one area that has held back access to genetic counselors is Medicare. Medicare currently covers and reimburses genetic counseling, as well as many genetic tests. However, Congress has not enacted legislation that would recognize genetic counselors as Medicare practitioners and because of this, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) does not reimburse genetic counselors. CMS currently reimburses physicians and nurse practitioners for providing genetic counseling.

Lack of access has been shown to result in patient harm, such as incorrect interpretation of genetic test results, failure to identify individuals with genetic risk, and inaccurate risk assessments leading to inappropriate medical management. Another reason that CMS should recognize genetic counselors is because we are also a great resource in ensuring the correct tests are ordered, which may lower Medicare spending.

H.R.3235 Would Recognize Genetic Counselors as Practitioners

But there is good news! Representatives Loebsack (D-IA) and Kelly (R-PA) have introduced H.R. 3235, the "Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act," which would have CMS recognize genetic counselors as practitioners. NSGC appreciates and thanks ASHG for supporting this important legislation.

The passage of H.R. 3235 would reverse current Medicare policies that limit physician referrals to genetic counselor services. Today unfortunately, because of arcane Medicare "incident to" rules, referrals to genetic counselors are limited under Medicare. Physicians and other providers who do not work alongside a genetic counselor, but who may want to refer to genetic counselors for the delivery of genetic services to their patients, would first need to refer their patient to a physician that actually works with a genetic counselor. This is extremely inefficient and is prohibitive. Medicare beneficiary access to genetic counselors is therefore very limited.

We are working hard with groups like ASHG to put pressure on Congress to enact this important legislation. Medicare needs to modernize in many ways, and this is a perfect example of how Congress can improve the delivery of genetic services. If you'd like to support this effort, please visit: https://www.nsgc.org/p/cm/ld/fid=612

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Improving Access to Genetic Counselors under H.R. 3235, the "Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act" of 2019 - ASHG

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Genetic and genomic innovation has made leaps and bounds to improve people's health. As the technology has evolved, many delivery models have integrated genetic counselors into the healthcare team so that patients and their family members have access to them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
NSGC sponsors a variety of strategic activities aimed at increasing patients' access to genetic counselors and genetic services.

NSGC is currently engaged in the following advocacy activities:

NSGC's Position Statements reflect concrete applications of the Society's Code of Ethics and other official documents. Adoption requires majority vote by the NSGC Board of Directors.

NSGC has developed resources for state licensure that include draft sunrise applications and model legislative language. NSGC is involved in the development of legislation and our public policy staff works with members to develop strategies for the successful pursuit of these efforts. NSGC has experience negotiating legislation with legislators and stakeholders.

Federal Advocacy

NSGC's Federal advocacy efforts focus on improving access to quality genetic counseling services and ensuring the genetic counseling profession is a recognized and integral part of the healthcare system.

NSGC is the leading voice, authority and advocate for the genetic counseling profession. As such, the NSGC is an organization that furthers the professional interests of genetic counselors, promotes a network for communication within the profession, and deals with issues relevant to human genetics. With the establishment of the NSGC Code of Ethics, the NSGC affirms the ethical responsibilities of its members and provides them with guidance in their relationships with self, clients, colleagues, and society.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NSGC sponsors a variety of strategic activities aimed at increasing patients' access to genetic counselors and genetic services. NSGC's Position Statements reflect concrete applications of the Society's Code of Ethics and other official documents. Adoption requires majority vote by the NSGC Board of Directors.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Are you ready?

Take part in the political process by exercising your right to vote! Across the country, local, state, and federal lawmakers are campaigning to represent you in 2021. In fact, there are over 95,000 positions on the ballot this year, and Americans will vote for more than just a president!

Here's what you need to know.

Register to Vote

If you haven't already, make sure you are registered to vote. To vote in national elections, you must be a U.S. citizen-but don't forget that each state also has its own set of registration guidelines.

Research Candidates

Find out who's running for office. Select your state and enter your zip code or full address to find your district candidates. Decide what you are looking for in a candidate and who can represent your personal and professional interests. You can do this by visiting their website and gathering information about them. Evaluate where the candidate stands on issues that impact you.

Decide Who to Vote For

Once you've completed your research, prepare a checklist or 'report card' listing your priority issues, where each candidate stands on those issues, and if you believe their leadership qualities will make a difference.

Vote

The public health emergency, along with mandates to help stop the spread of COVID-19, is impacting voting options across the country. Find out what the process will be for voting in your state this year. The United States Elections Assistance Commission (EAC) is a great resource for information on polling place accessibility.

Go Social

Share that you voted with your social network. Be sure to tag @ASHAAdvocacy and use hashtag #whyivote so we can see and share them too!

Student Voters

The Campus Vote Project works with universities, community colleges, faculty, students, and election officials to reduce barriers to student voting and help empower students with the information you need to register and vote.

Reasons to Vote

We are fortunate to live in a country where we have the right to vote and, by voting, have a say in how our government is run. Take advantage of your power to create change in the way your patients, clients, and students are treated and how we conduct our practice. ASHA members account for more than 211,000 votes across the country-together we have a powerful message to share!

Questions?

Email grassroots@asha.org.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Are you ready? Take part in the political process by exercising your right to vote! Across the country, local, state, and federal lawmakers are campaigning to represent you in 2021. In fact, there are over 95,000 positions on the ballot this year, and Americans will vote for more than just a president!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read about ASHA’s state and federal advocacy activities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Think being an advocate is too complicated or time consuming? It's not! At the end of the day, you're simply supporting a cause, idea, or policy that already interests you.

As future audiologists and speech-language pathologists, you're going to spend a lot of time being an advocate-for your clients, for their care, and for the treatments you propose. But advocacy can extend beyond your clients.

Local Advocacy

Don't think because you're "only" doing something in your local community that you're not advocating and it doesn't make a difference-it does! At the local level, you can reach your family, friends, co-workers, and local government officials. Check out how these 2016-2017 Gold Chapter Honors recipients made a difference in their local communities:

The Vanderbilt University Chapter collaborated with their local public-school system to advocate for improved classroom acoustics. After submitting a letter about the importance of improved classroom acoustics in education, they spoke at school board and principal meetings, provided simulations of hearing loss and the effects of a noisy classroom, and presented realistic ways to improve classroom acoustics.

The Minot State University Chapter filled goodie bags with info on developmental milestones, coloring pages, earplugs with hearing protection handouts, tattoos, and candy-then educated parents about speech and language development at a local mall.

The Midwestern University Chapter taught family members, faculty, and friends about what they're studying in their CSD program at a "Family Night."

Under the supervision of a professor, the Lehman College Chapter gave undergraduate students hands-on experience using an audiometer for hearing screenings.

State Advocacy

Anyone can get involved in grassroots advocacy at the state level-yep, this means you! All you have to do is learn about the issues, contact your government officials, and tell them your story. These 2016-2017 Gold Chapter Honors recipients made a real impact in their states:

The East Tennessee State University Chapter messaged their local representative and advocated for a change in professional taxes and school caseload regulations in Tennessee.

The Nova Southeastern University Chapter taught chapter members how to use ASHA's Take Action website, and invited their state association liaison to speak about the different levels of advocacy.

To prepare for Iowa's state-wide Advocacy Day, the University of Iowa Chapter participated in the state association's conference calls, which helped them get organized and gave them ideas to involve chapter members.

To prepare for their state association's Legislative Day, the University of Missouri, Columbia, contacted the lobbyist who works with their state association to learn about bills that affect audiologists, speech-language pathologists, or those they serve.

Federal Advocacy

You're entering a profession that can be affected by decisions made by federal legislatures. Your goal should be to raise awareness of current issues with these legislatures, and make them real by sharing your passion and stories. These 2016-2017 Gold Chapter Honors recipients really nailed it at the federal level:

The Long Island University, Brooklyn, Chapter traveled from New York to Washington, D.C., to meet with their representatives and discuss issues like the reauthorization of the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Act. As a result of their efforts, Senator Chuck Schumer co-sponsored Senate Bill 2424 to reauthorize this funding.

The North Carolina Central University Chapter strengthened their efforts for ASHA's Virtual Advocacy Day by sharing a single message through letters to Congress and their social media accounts to create a larger impact.

The University of Montana Chapter narrowed their scope to just one topic (raise awareness of limitations that individuals with disabilities may face); then contacted organizations advocating for the same issue, giving them a larger, more unified voice.

The University of Pittsburgh Chapter increased involvement in ASHA's Virtual Advocacy Day by awarding participation points to members who participated.

As you can see, advocating each level-local, state, federal-is important. Regardless of how you get involved, get involved. Do it on your own, or do it as a group through your NSSLHA Chapter or CSD program. Any way you choose, speak up and be heard!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Be an Advocate-It's Easier Than You Think! - NSSLHA Blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Think being an advocate is too complicated or time consuming? It's not! At the end of the day, you're simply supporting a cause, idea, or policy that already interests you. As future audiologists and speech-language pathologists, you're going to spend a lot of time being an advocate-for your clients, for their care, and for the treatments you propose.

# data[].attributes.headline
ANA - advocacy & championing nursing interests

# data[].attributes.subject
ANA - advocacy & championing nursing interests

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The American Nurses Association (ANA) believes that advocacy is a pillar of nursing. Nurses instinctively advocate for their patients, in their workplaces, and in their communities; but legislative and political advocacy is no less important to advancing the profession and patient care.

ANA offers the information, tools, and resources that nurses need to become effective advocates. Through championing the nursing profession, nurses give a voice to the essential role that they play in advancing access to high-quality, affordable care. With energetic participation in advocacy, every nurse can help the profession to improve and move to higher levels.

Championing nurse interests

ANA also amplifies the voice of nurses, by advocating directly with decision-makers. We represent nurses on Capitol Hill; provide support for state nurse associations as they advance their own advocacy agendas; empower nurses to share their perspective and expertise with policymakers; and foster political engagement among nurses.
STATE Government AFFAIRS PROGRAM FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The American Nurses Association (ANA) believes that advocacy is a pillar of nursing. Nurses instinctively advocate for their patients, in their workplaces, and in their communities; but legislative and political advocacy is no less important to advancing the profession and patient care. ANA offers the information, tools, and resources that nurses need to become effective advocates.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Practice and Policy | American Nurses Association (ANA)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Advancing the nursing profession is the heart of the ANA. By speaking through a unified voice on policy issues, and supporting nurses to practice to their full license, education, and training; we will improve health care for all.

# data[].attributes.body
Covid-19 & OT

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
AOTA is hosting a series of free virtual CE programs to equip occupational therapy practitioners, educators, and students to navigate through the evolving coronavirus pandemic. This series is free for AOTA members and non-members.
Register Now
Wednesday, April 1
11 am - 12:30 pm ET
Occupational Therapy in Hospitals & Inpatient Care: Responding to a Pandemic

Thursday, April 2
1:30 - 3 pm ET
From Onsite to Online: Addressing Students' Needs Through a Telehealth Service Delivery Model

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
AOTA is hosting a series of free virtual CE programs to equip occupational therapy practitioners, educators, and students to navigate through the evolving coronavirus pandemic. This series is free for AOTA members and non-members.

# data[].attributes.body
How to request an accessible electronic vote by mail ballot in MA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A voter with a disability may make a request to vote by mail using an Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot through an Accessible Vote by Mail System. This request must be submitted to the Accessible Vote by Mail Coordinator. For more information about the request process and the System, please continue reading.

This Accessible Vote by Mail System allows voters with disabilities to receive their ballot electronically, mark their ballot privately and independently using their own assistive technology, print their marked ballot, and mail or hand-deliver it to their local election official to be counted.

In order to get access to the Remote Accessible Vote by Mail System, a voter must first submit a request for accommodation to Accessible Vote by Mail Coordinator electronically to Kelly.Emmons@sec.state.ma.us. A voter may also reach the Coordinator by phone at 617-727-2828 from 8:45 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

As part of the request for accommodation for the September 1, 2020 primary election, the voter must first provide the Coordinator the following information:

1. A statement confirming that the voter is registered to vote and requesting use of accessible vote by mail because of a disability that prevents them from marking a paper ballot;

2. Full name (first, middle, last);

3. Voter registration address (street address, city/town, zip code);

4. Mailing address, if different than voter registration address;

5. Date of birth;

6. Email address; and

7. Phone number.

Second, the voter must email the Coordinator an electronic 2020 Vote by Mail Application available HERE with all of fields completed, including the date and signature. The voter can use a mouse or stylus to sign or attach an image of their signature. However, a typed signature is not acceptable unless accompanied by a statement that you are disabled and cannot insert an electronic hand-drawn signature as a result.

The deadline to submit an accommodation request and application for the September 1 primary is twelve noon on Friday, August 28, 2020.

Once the request and application are received and processed, the Accessible Vote by Mail Coordinator will contact the voter to provide further instructions. The voter's email address and phone number are requested to ensure that the Accessible Vote by Mail Coordinator can provide the voter with information necessary to access the System.

A voter approved for an Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot will receive a PIN from the Coordinator that will provide entry into the System to complete the Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot. The voter will also receive by email from the Coordinator an accessible electronic affidavit of compliance that must accompany the electronic ballot in order to be officially cast. In addition, the Coordinator will provide the voter with contact information and the mailing address for the voter's local election office.

A voter approved for an Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot will also be mailed, by first-class mail, an inner envelope where the electronic ballot is placed after voting. The envelope will have an affidavit of compliance to be filled out by the voter (signature line indicated by hole punch) that is similar in substance to the electronic affidavit of compliance. They will also be mailed an outer envelope that is pre-addressed to the local election official with postage guaranteed. BECAUSE THE PRE-ADDRESSED, POSTAGE PAID ENVELOPE FROM THE LOCAL ELECTION OFFICE MAY NOT ARRIVE IN TIME FOR YOUR BALLOT TO BE COUNTED BY THE SEPTEMBER 1, 2020 PRIMARY, voters may alternatively mail the complete Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot they have printed, along with the complete electronic affidavit of compliance, in the voter's own envelope with necessary postage.

The envelope containing a completed Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot and signed affidavit of compliance must be mailed to your local election office or hand-delivered to your local election office, an official ballot return box, or to an early voting location during early voting hours. YOUR LOCAL ELECTION OFFICE MUST RECEIVE THE ENVELOPE WITH YOUR ELECTRONIC VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT AND THE AFFIDAVIT BY 8:00PM ON SEPTEMBER 1, 2020.

If you have already applied for, received and returned a vote by mail ballot that has been accepted by your local election official for the September 1 primary, you cannot now apply for another primary ballot.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A voter with a disability may make a request to vote by mail using an Electronic Vote by Mail Ballot through an Accessible Vote by Mail System. This request must be submitted to the Accessible Vote by Mail Coordinator. For more information about the request process and the System, please continue reading.

# data[].attributes.body
Voting resources for persons with disabilities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Working to ensure equal access for all voters

The Elections Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts office is committed to:

Surveying every Massachusetts polling place to ensure polling places are accessible by meeting state regulations.

Working with and helping train Election Day workers on sensitivity to all voters as well as the proper procedures and testing to ensure the polling location is accessible and the accessible voting equipment is made available to all voters.

Working with outreach organizations to ensure voters are familiar with the accessible voting equipment and availability of such equipment at every polling location.

Accessible Polling Places

All polling locations in Massachusetts are required to be accessible. All polling places must provide access on a permanent or temporary basis on Election Day. Voting assistance and absentee voting offer options that persons with disabilities may use to vote, but are not considered substitutes actual accessibility to the voting location. Accessible voting provides the same opportunity for access and participation to persons with disabilities as for other voters.

Accessible Voting Procedures

A voter can choose someone to assist entering the polling location, checking in, entering the voting booth, preparing the ballot, exiting the booth and checking out.

Voting via mail-in absentee ballot at home is another option used by elderly and disabled voters. For more information regarding absentee voting, click here or you may contact your local election official.

If you have a disability that prevents them from marking a paper ballot, you can request use of the accessible vote by mail system. Learn more.

Accessible Voting Equipment

Both federal law and state requirements mandate that voting systems be equipped for voters with disabilities allowing such voters to have the same opportunity to vote privately and independently. It is required that every precinct must have at least one accessible voting machine available.

There is at least one accessible marking unit in every polling place in Massachusetts. The AutoMARK Voter Assist Terminals are marking devices that use audio cue capacity for visually impaired voters. The AutoMark also has a feature that will greatly magnify the ballot or display the ballot high-contrast for voters that have limited visual impairment. The AutoMark can also produce an oral report to the voter as the choices selected prior to the voter printing the ballot.

For more information on the AutoMARK Voter Assist Terminal, please visit AutoMARK Video.

Contact us if we can help

The Elections Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is committed to making voting as accessible for all voters. Please let us know how we can improve accessibility by calling us at 800-462-VOTE (8683) (toll free) or 617-727-2828. For deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired please contact us at TTY: 617-878-3889. You may also e-mail us at elections@sec.state.ma.us.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Elections Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts office is committed to: Surveying every Massachusetts polling place to ensure polling places are accessible by meeting state regulations. Working with and helping train Election Day workers on sensitivity to all voters as well as the proper procedures and testing to ensure the polling location is accessible and the accessible voting equipment is made available to all voters.

# data[].attributes.body
Virtual hill day

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This year, AOTA will host Virtual Hill Week in September 2020, in lieu of our annual in-person Hill Day. This week of advocacy will include events from Monday, September 14th through Friday, September 18th and will begin and end with live webinars hosted by AOTA staff. Activities for the week will include learning opportunities, grassroots actions for attendees, and virtual interactions with Members of Congress or their staff.

Schedule of Events

Monday, September 14th- "Virtual Hill Week Kickoff and Introduction to Advocacy" live webinar with AOTA staff about current events on the Hill, and Advocacy 101. This will include time for Q&A and first Grassroots Activity Assignment.

Issue: OT via Telehealth for Medicare Beneficiaries

Live webinar information will be shared with registrants

Tuesday September 15th-Second Grassroots Activity Assignment & Learning Activities; AOTA staff virtual "office hours" to answer questions.

Issue: Education Funding and Student Loan Relief

Staff virtual "office hours" shared with registrants

Wednesday, September 16th-Third Grassroots Activity Assignment & Learning Activities; AOTA staff virtual "office hours" to answer questions.

Issue: 2021 Medicare Payment Cuts

Staff virtual "office hours" shared with registrants

Thursday, September 17th-Live conversation with members of Congress or their staff led by AOTA staff & volunteer leadership.
Accessing information and schedule will be shared with registrants

Friday, September 18th-Live webinar debrief (including Q&A participation) & reflection activity.
Live webinar information will be shared with registrants

Although we can't meet in person this year, we can advocate for the profession with the same spirit, energy, and commitments through these virtual events. From where you can practice to how you get paid, Congress has the ability to write laws that will have an impact the profession of occupational therapy. Laws written today will go into effect in the future; so raise your voice to make sure the policies that are being written are the ones you support. There is no better time to advocate for your profession than today.

While registration to attend the live components of Virtual Hill Week is now closed, you can still take action along with your colleagues and learn more about the issues by going to the Virtual Hill Week page on our Legislative Action Center.

Any questions about participation can be sent to HillDay@aota.org.

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag: #OTHillDay

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Virtual Hill Week - Advocate for Your Profession!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This year, AOTA will host Virtual Hill Week in September 2020, in lieu of our annual in-person Hill Day. This week of advocacy will include events from Monday, September 14th through Friday, September 18th and will begin and end with live webinars hosted by AOTA staff.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Health Policy - American Nurses Association (ANA)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
ANA exists to champion the nursing profession, and the essential role nurses play in improving health and health care for all. Thanks to their frontline role, nurses offer a unique, expert perspective on every aspect of the health care system, and have a key voice in ongoing efforts to improve publ…