The House and Senate have left Washington, D.C. for their summer holiday. When lawmakers return to Washington after the Labor Day, Congress will take up critical unfinished budget and policy matters, before attempting to adjourn for the year by early October. Now, while they are at home, is the time to remind your senators and representatives about the Jewish federations' priorities and concerns. Take action now!

Medicare

Earlier this year both the House and the Senate passed their versions of the Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003. In September, Senate and House leaders will negotiate the differences between the two bills. As the Medicare Prescription Drug Bill nears the finish line, tell your Senators and Representatives that more work is needed to provide an affordable, meaningful, universal, and stable drug benefit for seniors. Take Action. 

Charitable Giving Act

Urge your elected members to support charities like our Jewish federations. The House Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to consider the Charitable Giving Act on Sept. 4. Now is the time to contact your representatives and ask them to support this important piece of legislation. Take Action. 

The Elder Justice Act

Whether living at home, in a community, or in a skilled nursing facility, the elderly are at risk for physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, neglect or abandonment, and exploitation. Jewish people over 85 are becoming the fastest growing segment of the Jewish population and it is vital that we have the systems and resources in place to fight elder abuse. Urge your elected members to support The Elder Justice Act legislation to ensure we protect our most vulnerable community members. Take Action. 

Senior Transportation

Without adequate and affordable transportation services, seniors in our communities are not able to access health and social services available to them. The result is often increasing isolation and deterioration in health and quality of life. The committees with jurisdiction over this issue [Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee] plan to take this up in September. Remind your senators and representative about the needs of the elderly in our community. Take Action.

To learn more about UJC's advocacy efforts in Washington and the latest developments on Capitol Hill, visit our Online Advocacy Center or come to Washington, D.C. on a mission to advocate on our community's behalf.