Not a Democrat. Not a Republican. Just a Veterinarian
My first few days serving as the AVMA-GRD extern for the month of February coincided with the annual SAVMA Lobby Day. At this two-day event, I, along with 63 other vet students, got a crash course on a variety of subjects such as how bills are created, passed through Congress, and eventually becomes law (or don’t). You may think that this information could be learned from a 5-minute School House Rock video, but we got it first-hand from professionals working in Washington to influence process. Panelists included congressional staffers, current and former AVMA fellows, and association government relations staff. They discussed with us their role in making policy as well as things that we can do to become directly involved.
We must understand that regulations and laws made at both the federal and state levels directly impact the veterinary profession and can either be beneficial or detrimental to veterinary medicine. Too often laws and regulations are crafted by individuals with very little expertise in animal science or veterinary medicine. Too often these well-meaning individuals that have no practical knowledge or background in veterinary medicine listen to the wrong people who hold themselves out as authorities. If we want to ensure that the federal and state governments enact laws and regulations that help not hinder veterinary medicine then we are obligated to become advocates for the profession. We are the experts that can help to ensure that our profession continues to deliver the best care possible care to animals and protects human health. All of us ought to let our elected officials in the states and in Washington know where we stand on issues impacting the veterinary profession. I know you are pressed for time, I am too. AVMA tries to make it easy to stay informed on the issues impacting the profession. Sign up for the AVMA-CAN and become a fan of the AVMA Political Action Committee on Facebook.
The most fulfilling part of SAVMA Lobby Day was when all of the students went to Capitol Hill to meet with congressional staff from our respective congressional delegations. As constituents, we were able to ask for their support for the Veterinary Services Investment Act (S. 1709/H.R. 3519), the Veterinary Public Health Workforce and Education Act (H.R. 2999), and for $6 million in FY2011 to fund the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program. An important point was made in prepping for our meetings. The issues are not democratic or republic issues. They are non-partisan. These legislative issues hv relevance in every state and should they pass they will greatly benefit the profession. All of the students involved in SAVMA Lobby Day were proud to know that we were doing our part. We saw quick results too. Three House members cosponsored H.R. 3519 on the evening following our visits!
I urge you to get involved! Learn about the issues in your city, state, and federal government and let your lawmakers know how you feel about it. Remember, when it comes to veterinary medicine, WE are the experts.
-Van Brass
February 4th, 2010 at 5:24 pm
Hi Van! I sat next to you at lunch Monday at the SAVMA fly in.
I’m looking forward to reading your extern blog! Good luck!
February 7th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
I too was at the Lobby Day. Which House members cosponsored? I hope one was my Representative!
February 10th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Hi Eva- Lynn Jenkins (R-KS), Rep. James McGovern (D-MA) and Rep. James Moran (D-VA) became cosponsors of the Veterinary Services Investment Act after the Legislative Visit.