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United Spinal Association and disability advocates from its national chapter network plan to gather in Washington, DC, June 7-10 for the 4th Annual Roll on Capitol Hill. The event aims to shape policies that impact the health, independence, and quality of life of people living with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D).

Roll on Capitol Hill (ROCH) is described as United Spinal’s signature policy event, intended to highlight key advocacy priorities for its membership and the broader disability community to ensure that legislators include wheelchair users and all people with disabilities in policy debates on Capitol Hill.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of Roll on Capitol Hill is that it provides individuals with disabilities the platform to constructively voice their concerns about issues impacting their daily lives,” said Joe Gaskins, United Spinal President & CEO.

ROCH attendees will have the opportunity to visit the Capitol Hill offices of their representatives and other key legislators to personally discuss legislative issues, including the need for greater access to individually configured wheelchairs as well as accessible transportation, medical supplies, prescription drugs, and Medicaid.

This year, Roll on Capitol Hill attendees will advocate for:

  • HR 1516/S. 1013 Ensuring Access to Quality Complex Rehabilitation Technology Act of 2015. This will create separate recognition for complex rehab technology wheelchairs.
  • Adequate funding, without limiting grants or caps for Medicaid, including home- and community-based services such as personal care attendants, transportation, wheelchairs and other equipment.
  • HR.2071, Safe Streets Act of 2015. This bill encourages communities to consider safety improvements for all users in transportation project planning.
  • A long-term surface transportation bill with adequate funding measures. Any bill should ensure an accessible, affordable, reliable, and safe transportation system for all in urban, suburban, and rural settings; and equal access to employment in the transportation sector.
  • Ensure that all individuals with a medical condition or disability requiring urological prosthetic supplies have access to the supplies prescribed by their health care providers.

Also, on June 9, United Spinal will host a Congressional Awards Reception to recognize members of Congress for their outstanding service to people with disabilities and veterans that will include Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL-08). Duckworth will be honored with the 2015 Disability Rights Champion Award for her leadership role in expanding the rights of veterans, veterans with disabilities, and the broader disability community.

The June 9 awards reception will also recognize other congressional and consumer leaders for their efforts.

[Source: United Spinal Association]