Parkinson Action Network - for additional info call 1-800-850-4726
To: Parkinson's Community
From: Joan I. Samuelson, Esq.
Date: August 1, 1996
Re: Udall Bill Update; Game Plan for August
page 1
I. UDALL BILL UPDATE. The outstanding grassroots effort of the Parkinson's
community has succeeded in getting a majority of co-sponsors in both Houses
of Congress. (60 Senators and 226 representatives). This is a major
achievement - thank you for your help. This support has translated into
action in the Senate, where Udall language has been adopted as part of the
NIH Reauthorization bill, which is moving toward a full Senate vote after the
Congress returns in September. This puts pressure on the House, which has
takwen no action. Now we have a race against the legislative clock.
II. WHAT ACTION IS NEEDED. The Congress is beginning its August recess, and
with elections just three months away, they are likely to be visible and
accessible in their home districts. This is a very important time to contact
your Senators and Representatives and urge them to support consideration and
passage of the Udall bill. When Congress returns in September, there will be
a lot of legislation vying for limited floor time, only about three remaining
weeks of work before election day. It is critical that the leadership and
membership of both Houses hear that Parkinson's researcyh is important to
their constituents. The following are some suggestion for ways you can help
raise Congressional awareness of the Udall bill. REMEMBER; EVERY LITTLE BIT
HELPS.
1. VISITS, LETTERS, CALLS to your elected legislators:
a. Personal contact. August is prime campaigning time. Invite your
legislators to your support groups, visit their offices or go the their "Town
Meetings"
b. Letters or calls. If your legislators are not co-sponsors of the Udall
bill, urge them to Join! Most of their Senate and House colleagues are
co-sponsors and they must be encouraged to sign on! (sample letter will be
posted separately)
If your legislators are co-sponsors, push
for passage of the Udall bill. Udall co-sponsors should be thanked for their
support and encouraged to continue to push for passage. Although time is
short, there are still chances for votes in both the Senate ahd House.
Our supporters need to be asked to do all they can to ensure votes this year.
Again, sample letter to be posted separately can be used for ideas about
what to say, and feel free to tell your personal story!
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