Lobby Day in Topeka, March 12 2009

First, we had a great luncheon with several of our Kansas legislators! It was great to get to talk to some of these officials one-on-one!Then, we all headed over to the Kansas State Capitol Building to deliver information to the rest of our senators and representatives who weren't able to make the luncheon. If you've never been lobbying before - it is an AWESOME experience. I would encourage you if you ever have a chance in the future to take part in a local or national lobby day.

Okay - so probably took too many pictures of the actual capitol building - but it is so gorgeous!!
Before we left, we got to visit the actual senate session.Here we are waiting for it to start.After they called the senate to order, they recognized the March of Dimes in attendance!
Very fun day! More than that, it feels so good to know that we had small small part in the process of getting the March of Dimes' mission brought to light with our state representatives.

CHIP

You may have alread heard but the CHIP, Children's Health Insurance Program, was signed into law by the president last week. This is a HUGE win for March of Dimes supporters and anyone who believes in babies being born healthy!

Here is what Dr. Howse, President of the March of Dimes, had to say about this awesome accomplishment....

I am pleased to announce that the reauthorization of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) was signed into law on Wednesday. This critical legislation includes key provisions the March of Dimes has championed since 2007:

*Maintains coverage for those children currently enrolled and give states the resources to cover an additional 4.1 million uninsured children which means 11 million children will have access to coverage.
*Gives states a new option to cover pregnant women who meet the program’s income guidelines.
*Contains a robust pediatric quality initiative to fund the development and dissemination of pediatric quality measures for use by the states. This will help ensure that children receive not only health coverage, but high quality care.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who has played a role in this accomplishment.

Calling all parents – voice your support for the health of babies!

Beginning this month, Kansas health officials will screen the blood of every Kansas newborn for 29 treatable disorders. Previously, Kansas screened for just four disorders, trailing nearly every state in the nation.

The March of Dimes Advocacy Network played a pivotal role in securing passage of the Newborn Screening Act in Kansas, proving the power of an individual’s voice and personal story.

What does the March of Dimes Advocacy Network do?
The Advocacy Network draws attention to important issues related to maternal and child health. This grassroots advocacy educates elected officials and lets them know how their constituents feel about certain issues.

How does it work?
During each legislative session (January through May), the March of Dimes distributes information about key legislative issues to Advocacy Network members. Typically distributed via e-mail, this information includes appropriate legislator contact information (e-mail, mail and phone), sample e-mails, letters and talking points to make communication as quick and easy as possible. Members use this information to deliver customized messages to their own Representatives and Senators.

How can I get involved?
To join the March of Dimes Advocacy Network, e-mail Diane Daldrup, State Director of Program Services, at ddaldrup@marchofdimes.com.