With the new Congress and the new President, there is a buzz of heightened hopes in Washington for disabilities issues. On the other hand, increased money for programs is likely to be sparse.

Serious economic conditions will hamper the ability to make all hoped-for changes. Also, many of the new members of Congress are concerned about growing deficits and are likely to join the Blue Dog Caucus of fiscally conservative Democrats.”

United Spinal Association helped develop both urgent priorities for immediately after Obama takes office and disability recommendations for the new President and the new Congress. They were issued by the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), a coalition of over 100 disabilities groups of which United Spinal Association is an active member. They cover such diverse topics as transportation, education, prevention, employment, long-term services and supports, Social Security disability benefits, and health care.

Health care reform will be a high priority for both Obama and Congress. Health care reform is seen not only as a moral imperative but as an economic issue as well. Our complements to Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), Chairman of the powerful Senate Finance Committee, who released his Call to Action white paper on major health care reform on November 12th. Peggy Hathaway of United Spinal Association said “It has ignited momentum of all stakeholders towards health care reform.” Senator Kennedy (D-MA), Chairman of the powerful Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee, promises a plan in January.

Peggy Hathaway
VP for Public Policy
United Spinal Association