Lobby Day 2017: Getting to know the issues

Each year, we focus on a few, key legislative goals that drive our lobby day activities. And as we gear up for Lobby Day 2017, we’re making sure to hit the advocacy priorities that are also the cornerstone of our mission: comprehensive health care, affordable housing and adequate incomes.

While there will be specific bills in Annapolis that we’ll be championing come Thursday, February 23, here’s a quick peak at what to expect…

Affordable housing takes center stage

We’ve always known it to be true. But this year we’re saying it loud and clear: housing is health care. Whether it’s during lawmaker meetings or at the rally, we’ll be pushing on affordable housing. Among the bills you’ll want to keep an eye on is the HOME Act of 2017 (HB172 legislative summary), which prevents discrimination against people seeking housing based on source of income.

Comprehensive health care remains square on the radar

This is a big one and that’s why our lobbying efforts will prioritize making sure funding for vital health programs isn’t on the chopping block. Our partners in the Behavioral Health Coalition are championing the Keep the Door Open Act (HB580 legislative summary) to ensure access to high-quality behavioral health care by making sure the rate of reimbursement for community providers keeps pace year the rate adjustment included in the State budget each fiscal year—and we’ll be at their side every step of the way. We’re also looking forward to rallying behind harm reduction bills to keep people safe and healthy. More to come on that front!

This could be a key year for adequate income

Without livable wages, we’ll never be able to tackle poverty head on. We expect some important income-related bills get real traction this session, including paid sick leave and the earned income tax credit. In tandem with our partners, friends and neighbors, we’ll help champion these bills in both the house and the senate.

But that’s not all. Whether it’s criminal justice reform or bringing greater efficiency to vital housing or health programs, various initiatives are taking shape and we’ll continue to keep an eye on things as they unfold in Annapolis—and keep you up to date. As we get closer to February 23 and hone in our legislative priorities for the day, we’ll reach out to care teams to share bill specifics and key talking points.

So keep your eyes peeled and get your rally signs ready!