In March and April 2023, NAELA distributed a survey to members soliciting input about advocacy program, especially reactions to policies and how members would prioritize them. With this information, the Federal Advocacy Committee proposed new annual priorities that, having been approved by the Board of Directors, NAELA will pursue:
1.
Make Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) under the Medicaid program available to every beneficiary in need of long-term services and supports (LTSS) to ensure full inclusion in the community and to allow them to age with dignity in their homes.
2.
Work to ensure the continuation of Medicaid benefits for individuals with disabilities of all ages, and to limit unfair and inequitable recoveries of benefits.
3.
Support oversight of the 1.3 million people living under guardianship and educate stakeholders on current challenges facing the system.
4.
Monitor and respond to tax and financial planning proposals that may negatively impact older adults and individuals with disabilities.
These priorities reflect changes to the policy landscape as the nation moves past the COVID-19 pandemic. For the past two years, addressing the Public Health Emergency (PHE) was a top priority. While NAELA will continue to monitor and engage on PHE unwinding, this falls within the broader focus of priority 2 and does not require special attention at this time.
NAELA will also include a focus on tax and financial planning, a crucial area for many elder law attorneys. Though always a concern, NAELA anticipates legislative and regulatory activity in this area this year, possibly in response to SECURE 2.0 legislation. As advocates consider a potential SECURE 3.0, NAELA will prioritize accordingly.
NAELA will proceed to take action in line with these priorities, while remaining nimble and reactive to the gamut of other issues important to NAELA members, so we can deliver advocacy victories that advance the NAELA mission. If you have any questions, please contact Mike Knaapen, Director of Public Policy and Alliance Development, at
[email protected].