August of Action: Making an Impact on Legislation

Published in Government Relations on August 03, 2023

With summer coming to an end, the political landscape is heating up with August of Action in full swing. Advocates and activists across the nation are seizing the opportunity to engage with their legislators as they are home in their congressional districts. Earlier in July, John Gallagher and members of the Oklahoma Medical Equipment Provider Association (OMEPA) attended meetings with multiple legislators to advocate for various bills, including the significant S. 1294, a bill to provide a 75/25 blended rate for non-rural, non-CBA suppliers. Their hard work and dedication paid off when Senator Lankford (R-OK) agreed to sign onto the bill, indicating growing support for its passage. This early success demonstrates the power of grassroots efforts in driving positive change and highlights the importance of citizen engagement in the legislative process. 

(L to R: DeAnn Garrison, MEA Healthcare Education Supplies; Vanessa Kehl, Wheelchair & Seating Clinic of Oklahoma; Kelly Kicklighter, VentilateOK; Mrs. Taylor, Senator Lankford's Office; Larry Dalton, Advance Care Medical Equipment; John Gallagher, VGM & Associates)

Continuing the momentum, Gallagher had a brief meeting with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) on July 31. The conversation aimed to garner support from the senator for S. 1294, as well as other crucial pieces of legislation. 

Next stop, Gallagher, along with Mike Isaacson's next destination was Arizona, where they planned meetings with key Arizona legislators. This strategic move demonstrates the importance of targeting states and districts where support for specific legislation may be critical. By engaging with legislators directly, Gallagher and Isaacson were looking to gather more backing for S . While they were in Arizona they worked with members of SWMESA and met with staff from both Senator Sinema's office and Senator Kelly's office. 

This August presents a unique opportunity for citizens to connect with their legislators while they are home in their respective states and districts. Town halls, community events, and local meetings are great platforms to voice concerns and advocate for legislation that matters most to the public. Gallagher's example of continuous efforts at the grassroots level shows that ordinary citizens can play an active role in shaping policy and influencing their representatives' decisions. 

The impact of this August of Action is evident in the progress Gallagher and fellow activists have already made. By seizing the opportunity to meet with legislators, they have not only secured support for vital legislation but also shown the strength of citizen-led movements in the democratic process. Together at the grassroots level, we can influence the course of legislation and work towards a better, more inclusive future for all. The power to effect change is in our hands – let's make the most of it this August and beyond.