Public Policy Priorities
While the Tourette Association Public Policy Office monitors, endorses and advocates for numerous pieces of federal legislation and regulation by necessity, we must focus our efforts on certain legislative priorities.
Appropriations for Tourette Syndrome at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) and the Tourette Association have partnered to provide much needed education and research programs on Tourette. The landmark program, titled the Tourette Syndrome Public Health Education and Research Program, strives to advance scientific knowledge about the prevalence, risk-factors and treatment of Tourette as well as educate physicians, health care professionals, and school personnel, and the general public about the disorder. The TAA has worked tirelessly to educate Members of Congress and their staff on the importance of this program partnership to the Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorder community. On an annual basis, we work with our members, state chapters, and youth ambassadors to request continued appropriations at the annual level of $2.5 million for the CDC TS Program. If you would like to do more, please reach out to Jay Nichols, the TAA’s Vice President of Public Policy, at jay.nichols@tourette.org.
The Congressional Tourette Syndrome Caucus
The Caucus is a bipartisan coalition of members committed to advocating on behalf of Americans with Tourette. The Caucus recognizes the needs of children and adults struggling with Tourette and strives to educate and involve members on the topic as it is addressed by Congress. We are continuing to work to solicit Representatives and Senators to join and make this a strong Bipartisan and Bicameral Caucus.
The Safe Step Act
The Safe Step Act would improve step therapy protocols and ensure patients can safely and efficiently access the best treatment for them.
Additional Priorities
Support a long-term extension of telehealth coverage.
Continued support of disability-related programs under IDEA and Section 504.
