Diedra Henry-Spires- CEO
As the year winds down, advocates from across the country reach out to express their real concern about MIECHV reauthorization. The tireless hours and effort that individuals, families, communities, advocacy organizations, and coalitions have invested in educating lawmakers and the public about the importance of evidence-based home visiting has been nothing short of phenomenal. Even more phenomenal is the steadiness and energy that these good people continue to display in pushing for MIECHV reauthorization.
Despite the quagmire of political posturing in which Congress finds itself, and pressing matters such as tax cuts and disaster relief, members on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers, have at least managed to keep an eye on MIECHV reauthorization.
The entire House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker of the House of Representatives Paul Ryan who has been a long and staunch proponent of MIECHV, have called for a five (5) year reauthorization of MIECHV with at least the current funding level. We also commend Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi for holding the line for MIECHV at five years. Ways and Means Human Resources Subcommittee champions Chairman Adrian Smith and Rep. Danny Davis have worked arduously to keep MIECHV reauthorization moving. Other stalwart champions like Rep. Diana DeGette, Rep. Lloyd Doggett, and Rep. Dave Reichert, and Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone have all shown their continued support for a five year reauthorization of MIECHV. In the Senate, a bi-partisan bill S.1829 sponsored by champions Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Robert Menendez, with twenty-eight (28) co-sponsors, calls for five (5) years reauthorization of MIECHV. Such bipartisan and bicameral movement on this is a demonstration of commitment to families and children across our nation.
Now we come to the holiday season where the importance of family is hailed. It is accentuated by unity, bountiful provisions, a sense of community, and gift giving. Congress too must gear itself to move in the holiday season. Our congressional leaders can do this when negotiating the continuing resolution (CR) that must be voted upon this week. The purpose is simple, keep the government functioning to maintain the health and well-being of communities across this nation. In keeping with that theme, we want Congress to extend to families and children, the gift of evidenced-based home visiting secured by MIECHV reauthorization on the CR. Not only is it possible, but it is just the right thing to do and reflective of the groundwork that has already been laid.
Just last week, Senate Finance Committee MIECHV champion Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland heard from The Maryland Home Visiting Alliance that they were not giving up on having MIECHV reauthorized before the holiday recess. We think he heard us. Both Sen. Cardin and Sen. Van Hollen heard from the Alliance that home visiting has been an effective tool in combating the opioid epidemic in Maryland. They are clear that home visiting can be utilized as a tool across the nation to combat the devastation from the addiction to opioids and other substances.
Our hearts are gladdened that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have been discussing a five year MIECHV reauthorization goal. As well, we are encouraged that the Senate Finance Committee under the leadership of the Chairman, Orrin Hatch and Ranking Member Ron Wyden, understands the importance of reauthorizing MIECHV as quickly as possible. Reauthorizing MIECHV before the end of the year is still possible for Congress. It seems that everyone knows it makes sense, it is possible, and it is necessary. Now all we need is to get it done.
My colleagues, pick up your phone and call your SENATORS and REPRESENTATIVES today! I am emphasizing calling because MIECHV is about humanity. Nothing is better than the human touch when speaking of health and human services issues. Let them hear your voices – literally. It only takes a quick minute to reach out by phone.
Call today, tell them you and your community want “MIECHV reauthorized for five years to ensure families, children, and communities can continue to receive the evidence-based home visiting that MIECHV affords”. It would be a great gift for this holiday season.
God Bless You and ONWARD!
Diedra
Click Here To Follow Us on Twitter @WeTheFamilies
My name is Brenda Anderson, I am a Home Visitor for Nevada Families First, Community Chest Inc., in Hawthorne, NV. Our community is in desperate need of the MIECHV reauthorization for the next five years. This will ensure our families, children, and community to continue receiving the evidence-based home visiting that MIECHV affords. It goes without saying that MIECHV has been one of our most cherished supporters, affording us to be able to meet with families where they live in life and home.