Tag Archives: Ballots, Bills and Laws

Accepted, Not Denied, Never Decided: California Ferret Petition Remains Unresolved After 378 Days

Petitioners say State's inaction has left them with fewer rights than if the petition had been denied

LA MESA, Calif., June 25, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Three hundred seventy-eight days after the California Fish and Game Commission unanimously voted to give further consideration to a petition seeking removal of domestic ferrets from California’s restricted species list, the petition remains unresolved, says Legalize Ferrets (Legalizeferrets.org).

Photo caption: Dino pauses for a photo while exploring his favorite room in the house – the laundry room. More than a year after California regulators voted to consider Petition 2025-003, the petition remains unresolved.

No recommendation has been issued. No determination has been provided to the petitioner. No final action has been taken.

Petitioners argue that the result is a procedural dead end: had the petition been denied, they could have sought judicial review. Instead, the petition was accepted and referred for evaluation, but remains unresolved more than a year later.

“The unusual part of this case is that acceptance of the petition appears to have left us with fewer practical remedies than a denial would have,” said Pat Wright, founder of LegalizeFerrets.org. “Had the petition been rejected, we could have challenged that decision. Instead, it was accepted, referred, and then left unresolved.”

A PETITION ACCEPTED BUT NEVER DECIDED

On June 11, 2025, the Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously to give further consideration to Petition 2025-003 and referred the matter to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for evaluation.

Had the Commission denied the petition, petitioners could have pursued available legal remedies. Had the petition proceeded through the normal administrative process, the Department would have completed its review and returned a recommendation to the Commission.

Instead, 378 days later, the petition remains pending without a final determination.

Petitioners contend that the State’s inaction has created a situation in which the administrative process has stalled while no final agency decision exists for a court to review.

PUBLIC RECORDS RAISE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Seeking to understand the status of the petition, petitioners submitted multiple requests under the California Public Records Act.

In response to an April 2026 records request, the Department reported that no responsive records existed. A later records request produced internal documents showing the petition was known to Department personnel and appeared on an internal petitions agenda.

Meeting notes from an April 29, 2026 petitions meeting show discussion of several petitions. The notation for the ferret petition states only: “No discussion.”

Records produced to date have revealed no documented recommendation, evaluation, or analysis of Petition 2025-003.

Additional records revealed litigation-hold communications relating to the petition and subsequent litigation.

THE QUESTION BEFORE THE COURT

The litigation does not ask the court to legalize ferrets.

Instead, the case seeks judicial review of whether state agencies have fulfilled their legal obligations after accepting a petition for consideration.

According to filings in the case, the State argues that petitioners generally must await final agency action before seeking judicial review. Petitioners argue that because no final action has ever been taken, they have been left in procedural limbo—unable to obtain a decision from the agency while simultaneously being told there is no final decision to challenge.

“The question extends beyond ferrets,” Wright said. “If an agency can accept a petition and then simply never complete the process, the public’s right to petition government becomes largely meaningless. Citizens should be entitled to an answer.”

TIMELINE

June 11, 2025
Fish and Game Commission votes unanimously to give further consideration to Petition 2025-003 and refers it to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

April 2026
Department responds to a Public Records Act request stating that no responsive records exist.

May–June 2026
Additional Public Records Act requests produce internal records, petitions meeting notes, and litigation-hold communications.

March 19, 2026
Petitioners file a writ action in Sacramento County Superior Court seeking judicial intervention.

June 24, 2026
Petition remains unresolved 378 days after referral.

ABOUT THE PETITION

Petition 2025-003 seeks removal of domestic ferrets from California’s restricted species list. Domestic ferrets are legal pets in 48 states. California remains one of only two states that prohibit private ownership.

ABOUT LEGALIZEFERRETS.ORG

Legalize Ferrets (LegalizeFerrets.org) is a California-based advocacy organization dedicated to ending California’s prohibition on domestic ferrets through legislation, administrative reform, public education, transparency, and legal action. Learn more: https://legalizeferrets.org/.

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Legalize Ferrets), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/accepted-not-denied-never-decided-california-ferret-petition-remains-unresolved-after-378-days/

Former DOE NEPA Chief and Save LBI Advocacy President Warns SPEED Act Would ‘Eviscerate’ Environmental Protections and Violate the Constitution

LONG BEACH ISLAND, N.J., March 19, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Bob Stern, Ph.D., President of Save Long Beach Island (LBI) Advocacy and former manager of the Office of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), today issued a sharp warning regarding the Senate’s consideration of the Standardized Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act. While framed as “permitting reform,” Stern argues the bill is a dangerous overreach that threatens the bedrock of American environmental law and constitutional separation of powers.

Image caption: Save Long Beach Island (LBI) Advocacy.

“The SPEED Act does contain some useful deadlines for Agency action but goes way too far and essentially eviscerates the NEPA itself,” Stern said. “This bill ignores the reality that delays are often caused by poor Agency implementation and a failure to fully disclose environmental impacts. In many cases, it isn’t the NEPA vehicle that needs fixing, but rather the ‘nut’ behind the wheel.”

FLAWED IMPLEMENTATION, NOT FLAWED LAW

Only a few agencies have a problem with the National Environmental Policy Act. Stern highlighted the extensive litigation facing the nation’s current offshore wind program as a primary example of implementation failure. He noted that the Department of the Interior (DOI) currently awards lease areas — the most important environmental decision — with virtually no environmental impact information, locking developers into flawed locations and inevitably leading to downstream litigation when environmental problems are brought to light years later in environmental impact statements (EIS), other statutory reviews, and comments by informed stakeholders.

COUNTERPRODUCTIVE REQUIREMENTS

“The bill limits the scope of environmental reviews to the ‘immediate’ and ‘proximate’ effects of a project, dismissing impacts that are caused by the project but separated geographically and timewise,” explained Thomas Stavola Jr. Esq., attorney on behalf of Save Long Beach Island Advocacy. “It also would eliminate the current requirement for an assessment of cumulative impacts. While this may make a consultant’s life easier, it conflicts with well-established case law and the full disclosure requirements of the Act.”

Stavola further noted that “a decision-maker considering such limited information would not be operating in the “real world” and, therefore prone to making flawed decisions, creating more opportunity for litigation and delay.

CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL RED FLAGS

In an extensive markup sent to Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Martin Heinrich, Save LBI Advocacy identified many provisions in the House-passed version of the SPEED Act that are counterproductive, legally indefensible, and in need of major revision:

Citizen Rights: The bill would limit the rights of affected parties to seek relief in Court, which conflicts with the standing prerequisites mandated by Article III of the Constitution. It also conflicts with and violates the Administrative Procedures Act (APA), which holds that a person adversely affected or aggrieved by an agency action is entitled to judicial review.

Restrictions on the Courts: The proposed restrictions on vacatur and injunctive relief improperly constrain judicial power and contradict the APA’s clear mandate to “set aside” or vacate unlawful agency actions. By dictating deference to agency judgement of impact, the bill undermines the court’s ability to equitably weigh harms to the parties involved.

Conflicts with SCOTUS Precedent: The requirement for “substantial deference” to agencies violates the recent U.S. Supreme Court Chevron deference reversal ruling, which now demands that courts exercise independent judgment in interpreting statutes.

Separation of Powers: Provisions that make a court’s remand power contingent on developer consent constitute an unconstitutional impingement on Article III judicial authority.

CONCLUSIONS

“This is not good law,” Stern concluded. “In its present form, the bill creates confusion and does not foster wise decision-making. It would eviscerate NEPA, which has been a bedrock of national environmental policy for over 50 years, and stands in direct conflict with other law and the Constitution itself. Most importantly, the bill does not address the root causes of many delays, which can be fixed with more informed and cooperative applicant and agency staff work.

A CALL FOR CAUTION

Save LBI Advocacy is calling on the Senators Whitehouse and Heinrich to exercise extreme caution in proceeding with the SPEED Act to be sure they are: (1) addressing the root causes of delay and not creating more chaos and confusion, which will serve no one, and (2) not removing environmental protections that have served us well for over a half-century. To that end, Save LBI Advocacy is asking them to consider its markup of the bill, which can still achieve significant permitting reform while preserving the Act.

ABOUT SAVE LONG BEACH ISLAND ADVOCACY, INC.

Save LBI Advocacy is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting the shore and ocean environment through rigorous advocacy, ensuring lawful environmental review for offshore industrial development. For more information, please visit https://www.savelbi.org/save-lbi-advocacy.

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NEWS SOURCE: Save Long Beach Island (Save LBI)

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Save Long Beach Island (Save LBI)), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/former-doe-nepa-chief-and-save-lbi-advocacy-president-warns-speed-act-would-eviscerate-environmental-protections-and-violate-the-constitution/

Pocatello Children’s Clinic Warns of Primary Care Pending Tragedy – Proposes Emergency Amendment to 2025 Idaho House Bill 345

Fallout could trigger a $400-$600 million annual budget overrun and loss of access to care for children on Medicaid

POCATELLO, Idaho, Jan. 7, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Pocatello Children’s Clinic is sounding the alarm regarding a pending statewide primary care crisis created by 2025 Idaho House Bill 345, and proposing an emergency amendment to avert tragedy. Idaho recently passed legislation to transition Medicaid to Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) by 2029. While the intent is to improve efficiency and cost control, interim changes over the next three years include eliminating the Healthy Connections Case Management program, well before replacement infrastructure is ready. The fallout could trigger a $400-$600 million annual budget overrun and loss of access to care for children on Medicaid.

Image caption: Pocatello Children’s Clinic.

A PROPOSED SOLUTION:

To prevent this crisis, the Pocatello Children’s Clinic has drafted a formal Amendment to House Bill 345. The amendment seeks to re-establish the Healthy Connections Case Management program as a bridge until the MCOs are fully ready to accept the handoff. This ensures a seamless transition, protects taxpayer dollars, and maintains the primary care infrastructure that has served Idaho for 32 years.

The Clinic has spent the last six months collaborating with state legislators, partner clinics, hospitals, other Idaho pediatricians, and the Idaho Academy of Family Physicians to build support for this measure. So far, the response has been positive; however, action is desperately needed.

CALL TO ACTION:

As the Idaho Legislature convenes on January 12, the Pocatello Children’s Clinic urges citizens to contact their state legislators. Reinstating the Healthy Connections Case Management program is a vital step in ensuring that Idaho doctors can continue to serve their communities.

BACKGROUND INFO:

Healthy Connections enables local physicians to coordinate care for Medicaid-insured patients. Approximately one-third of patients at Pocatello Children’s Clinic rely on Medicaid to access care. Loss of this long-standing program threatens access to vital health services and creates financial instability for community-based pediatric practices.

Healthy Connections benefits all patients – not just those on Medicaid—by supporting referrals, after-hours care, preventive care, and care coordination. Pediatric practices invest significant effort in reducing unnecessary emergency room visits through free nurse lines, overnight physician access, and extended clinic hours. These services do not generate revenue but are critical to keeping costs down and improving outcomes.

Rising healthcare costs are driven by technology, high-cost medications, chronic disease, and patient expectations—not by Healthy Connections Case Management. Short-term savings from eliminating the program will be eclipsed by higher emergency room utilization, delayed care, and reduced access to primary care, ultimately increasing costs to the state. Idaho Medicaid reimbursement to private practice is often already less than the cost of providing that patient visit.

Beyond fiscal impact, there is a human cost. Medicaid practices are central to the health and stability of local communities. The clinic’s Pediatricians, nurses, office managers, and support staff are community members who have served Southeast Idaho families for more than 60 years. The ability of practices like ours to continue providing that level of service is under threat.

ABOUT POCATELLO CHILDREN’S CLINIC:

Pocatello Children’s Clinic includes eight of the nine primary care pediatricians in the region (including Bannock, Power, Caribou, Bear Lake, Oneida, Franklin, and Bingham counties). Since 1962, the Pocatello Children’s Clinic has provided comprehensive pediatric care to generations of families in Southeast Idaho. As a historical medical training site for the University of Washington, Idaho State University, and Full Circle Health, the clinic remains dedicated to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals and protecting the health of Idaho’s children. Find out more at: https://pocatellochildren.com/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pocatello Children’s Contact:
Jessica Perry, Office Administrator
+1 208-232-1443
jperry@pocatellochildren.com

News Provided By: Kudzoo Media on behalf of Pocatello Children’s Clinic
Brian Parsons, Owner
+1 208-244-0884
info@kudzoomedia.com

NEWS SOURCE: Pocatello Children's Clinic

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Pocatello Children's Clinic), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/pocatello-childrens-clinic-warns-of-primary-care-pending-tragedy-proposes-emergency-amendment-to-2025-idaho-house-bill-345/

California’s Ferret Ban: Inherited in 1933 – Never Determined

Newly Released Records Show No Evidence-Based Decision Ever Made

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Oct. 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — After nearly eight months of waiting for public records, Legalize Ferrets (LegalizeFerrets.org) has obtained internal California Fish and Game Commission documents confirming that California’s ban on domestic ferrets was never based on scientific or administrative findings.

Image caption: California’s Ferret Ban: Inherited in 1933 – Never Determined.

The newly released materials trace the prohibition back to 1933, when the Commission simply declared that it “absolutely prohibits importation of ferret and fitch.” No hearing, no environmental study, and no determination of domestication ever took place.

“Ferrets are banned because they are not ‘normally domesticated in this state,’ and they are not ‘normally domesticated in this state’ because they are banned,” said Pat Wright of LegalizeFerrets.org. “It’s circular logic that has gone unchallenged for ninety years.”

A TIMELINE OF BUREAUCRATIC INHERITANCE

1933: Rules and Regulations Governing the Importation of Wild Birds and Animals — Commission “absolutely prohibits importation of ferret and fitch.”
1975: Fish & Game Code §2116 amended to add “not normally domesticated,” and ferrets were automatically labeled as such — again with no hearing or evidence.
Today: The current ban remains a direct descendant of those early rules, never revisited through modern, evidence-based review.

“These documents prove the ban was inherited, not determined,” Wright said. “There was never a factual finding that ferrets are wild animals — just 1930s boilerplate carried forward.”

LEGALIZATION EFFORT GAINS TRACTION UNDER THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT

The campaign for ferret legalization gained new traction this year after LegalizeFerrets.org formally invoked California’s Administrative Procedures Act (APA).

Under the APA, state agencies must base decisions on scientific evidence, follow transparent procedures, and allow public comment before adopting or maintaining a regulation.

“This law finally puts the issue where it belongs — in the light of science and public participation,” Wright explained. “For the first time, the Commission is being required to justify its classification of domestic ferrets under modern standards.”

PETITION 2025-003 MOVES FORWARD

On June 11, 2025, the California Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously to accept Petition 2025-003 for further consideration. The petition seeks to remove domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) from the prohibited species list — the first formal step toward a scientific, evidence-based review.

“The issue is simple,” Wright said. “Are domestic ferrets domestic animals? If so, the Fish and Game Commission has no jurisdiction. That’s the question the state has avoided answering for nine decades.”

CALL FOR EXPERTS AND PUBLIC SUPPORT

LegalizeFerrets.org is now seeking expert witnesses in animal domestication, wildlife biology, and administrative law to assist as the case proceeds.
Supporters are also urged to add their name to the public petition at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYOnd3GDwgbsZoZYlja6p8GHJlOg71x2v_8v1m4BXf2I-BHQ/viewform?usp=header

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org
(619) 757-7426
https://www.LegalizeFerrets.org

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/californias-ferret-ban-inherited-in-1933-never-determined/

Deemed Wild and Dangerous – But Fish & Game Can’t Produce a Single Document or Respond to Our Records Request

LA MESA, Calif., May 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — On February 12, 2025, a formal Public Records Act (PRA) request was submitted to the California Fish and Game Commission seeking documentation to justify the classification of domestic ferrets as “not normally domesticated in California” by LegalizeFerrets.org. The request specifically asked for any scientific studies, internal memos, environmental risk assessments, or correspondence used to uphold the ongoing prohibition of domestic ferrets under Title 14, Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations.

Image caption: While the months fly by, we’re still waiting for answers. Our Public Records Act request to the California Fish and Game Commission has gone unanswered—just like the last 35 years of silence.

As of today – more than 90 days later – no responsive records have been produced.

We acknowledge and appreciate the professional efforts of Executive Director Melissa Miller-Henson and her staff, particularly Cynthia McKeith, who confirmed receipt of our request and committed to transparency. This is not a failure of staff, who were given an impossible task: to produce evidence that likely doesn’t exist.

“We’re not angry with the staff. In fact, we feel for them. Melissa Miller-Henson inherited a legacy of bureaucratic neglect. We’re sorry she got stuck with this,” said Pat Wright, who submitted the request. “But after 35 years of petitions being ignored or quietly denied without justification, we’re done being silent.”

The request asked for documents dating back to 1931, when the original mustelid regulation was enacted. The public has a right to know: was the ferret ban ever based on actual evidence, or has it simply persisted unchallenged?

In the absence of records, this silence speaks volumes. The California Fish and Game Commission owes the public more than a stall – it owes an explanation.

We remain committed to transparency, due process, and accountability in our campaign to legalize domestic ferrets in California. All responses, or lack thereof, will be documented publicly.

For more information or to follow the ongoing effort, visit: https://www.legalizeferrets.org

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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org
(619) 303-0645

NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/deemed-wild-and-dangerous-but-fish-game-cant-produce-a-single-document-or-respond-to-our-records-request/

California Ferret Advocates Push Forward – Support Needed for Petition 2025-003!

LA MESA, Calif., March 18, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Ferret lovers across California and the nation are rallying behind Petition 2025-003, now officially acknowledged by the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC). This petition seeks to reclassify ferrets as domestic animals, challenging California’s outdated and scientifically unsupported ban, LegalizeFerrets.org announced today.

Image caption: Domestic ferrets are pets and don’t exist in the wild.

Despite being legal in 48 other states, ferrets remain classified as wild and detrimental in California—without public input or scientific justification. The Commission is set to review the petition in its upcoming meetings, and public support is critical to ensure fair consideration.

KEY MEETING DATES & HOW TO PARTICIPATE

The Fish and Game Commission will discuss Petition 2025-003 at the following meetings:

April 16-17, 2025 | Capitol Event Center, Sacramento, CA
June 11-12, 2025 | Sacramento area (Venue TBD)

Supporters are encouraged to attend in person or virtually and to submit written comments in favor of reclassifying ferrets as domestic animals.

HOW TO TAKE ACTION:

:: Attend the meetings – Show up in person or participate virtually. Details will be posted on FGC’s website.

:: Submit public comments – Email fgc@fgc.ca.gov or mail:
California Fish and Game Commission
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento, CA 94244-2090

:: Share and spread the word – Let others know why ferrets deserve fair treatment under the law!

WHY THIS MATTERS

“Ferrets are not wild or dangerous. They’ve been domesticated for thousands of years,” said Pat Wright, founder of LegalizeFerrets.org. “California’s ban is based on outdated fears, and it’s time to correct this injustice. The Fish and Game Commission is legally obligated under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) to provide a fair and transparent review of our petition.”

CALL TO ACTION

This is a rare and crucial opportunity to finally bring ferrets into the legal pet category where they belong. California pet lovers, veterinarians, and animal welfare advocates must come together to ensure the Commission fairly considers Petition 2025-003.

Act Now! The Commission will be reviewing the petition soon—make sure they hear your voice!

Stay updated & learn more at https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

Location: California (Statewide)

Media Contact: Pat Wright, LegalizeFerrets.org, (619) 303-0645, CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org

Together, let’s make ferret legalization a reality!

NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/california-ferret-advocates-push-forward-support-needed-for-petition-2025-003/

Legalize Ferrets Pauses Lawsuit, Files Petition for Regulatory Change with California Office of Administrative Law

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Oct. 11, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Legalize Ferrets, the grassroots organization advocating for the legalization of domestic ferrets in California, has announced a strategic pause in its ongoing lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court. The decision follows the filing of a petition for regulatory change with the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL), marking a new approach in the effort to challenge the state’s longstanding ban on ferrets.

Image caption: Legalize Ferrets Files Petition for Regulatory Change with California Office of Administrative Law.

The shift in strategy stems from the fact that California’s ferret ban, enacted in 1931, predates the establishment of the OAL and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The APA mandates that all regulations go through a formal process to ensure transparency, accountability, and public input—something that did not occur with the ferret ban. By filing this petition, Legalize Ferrets is now addressing the issue where it originated: before the OAL.

“We believe this petition represents our best path forward,” said Pat Wright, founder of Legalize Ferrets. “The OAL was created to ensure that regulations like this are properly vetted through a formal process, which is something the ferret ban has never gone through. We are optimistic that this will lead to a fair and thorough review, which has been missing for nearly a century.”

The OAL has sixty days to respond to the petition, during which Legalize Ferrets remains committed to pursuing all available avenues for justice. While the lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court is paused, the group believes that the regulatory petition offers a strong chance of success by revisiting the legal basis for the ban.

“We’re not stepping back – we’re simply changing our approach,” Wright added. “We’re confident that the regulatory process will allow for a fresh and fair review of the facts, and we encourage our supporters to stay engaged and continue pushing for change.”

Supporters are encouraged to sign the Change.org petition to further the cause.

About Legalize Ferrets:

Legalize Ferrets is a grassroots organization dedicated to the legalization of domestic ferrets in California. The group advocates for legislative and regulatory changes to overturn the nearly century-old ban on ferrets in the state. Through legal action, public outreach, and education, Legalize Ferrets aims to ensure that ferret owners can enjoy the same rights as pet owners in 48 other states.

For more information, please visit https://www.legalizeferrets.org/.

The petition and exhibits are at (PDF): https://www.legalizeferrets.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Petition-for-Regulation-Change.pdf.

There is a change.org petition that people can sign at https://chng.it/mw7MJNpc95.

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

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California Legislature Approves Landmark IVF Bill to Require Insurance Coverage for Fertility Healthcare, Sending Measure to Governor Newsom

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The California State Legislature approved Senate Bill 729, authored by State Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) and sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, with bipartisan support today sending the measure to Governor Newsom's desk with votes of 55-0 in the Assembly and 30-8 in the Senate.

SB 729 requires large group health plans to provide coverage for fertility care, including treatment for infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) - expanding access and removing economic barriers for 10 million eligible Californians. Fourteen other states have enacted similar insurance laws.

"For almost 30 years the archaic and discriminatory Knox-Keene Act has blocked the pathway to family building for Californians without the financial means and has deplorably excluded LGBTQ+ folks from fertility treatment coverage. The current mandate to offer fertility care is toothless and does not include IVF, one of the most successful modern advancements available," said Senator Menjivar. "IVF has become a national topic, and as other states look to restrict access the California Legislature has affirmed we are the torch bearers of reproductive freedom by sending SB 729, mandating fertility treatment coverage in large group insurance plans, to the Governor. Never before have we been so close to victory over this barrier to reproductive justice, and I urge Governor Newsom to live up to his claim to be a reproductive rights champion by signing SB 729 into law."

"As Insurance Commissioner, my role is to protect consumers and ensure they receive the best value from their coverage. This measure is one way we are achieving this goal," said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara. "California has led the nation in safeguarding access to reproductive healthcare, yet we still have significant work to do. The safest and most reliable methods of fertility care have been out of reach for most Californians, with rates of access the lowest for Black and Latina women, as well as the LGBTQ+ community. SB 729 is a powerful reminder of how we define family and how we can help Californians build theirs by being a leader in reproductive healthcare."

SB 729 is in alignment with model legislation created in 2020 by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association as it provides equitable access to the LGBTQ+ community and unpartnered individuals by expanding the definition of "infertility" to include anyone seeking to build a family - regardless of relationship status or sexual preference. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) published a similar more inclusive definition of infertility in October 2023, further establishing that every person deserves equal access to reproductive medicine.

"With the overwhelming support of SB 729, our legislature sent a clear message - we need to bring California out of the dark ages on fertility care," said State Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland). Wicks co-authored SB 729 and has introduced several measures since 2019 to address this issue. "California's current law not only leaves out coverage for IVF, it also defines infertility in such a narrow way as to exclude the LGBTQ+ community and single people needing medical intervention to build their families. We must address this gap in our healthcare system."

SB 729 ensures cancer patients are eligible for IVF insurance to continue their family building after preserving their eggs, sperm or embryos under SB 600. In 2019, Governor Newsom signed SB 600 into law requiring insurers to cover the cost of fertility preservation for patients facing chemotherapy and radiation.

"SB 600 gave cancer patients access to emergency services to prevent imminent sterility and infertility as a side effect of cancer treatments. This is the critical first step in the IVF process" said State Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), who introduced SB 600. "But SB 729 is an essential next step that would allow these survivors to use their frozen tissues to realize their family-building dreams."

"I can attest to the adverse consequences of California's outdated law and the downstream health issues and costs when patients cannot access or afford fertility care due to lack of health insurance coverage," said Dr. Marcelle Cedars, the Immediate Past President of American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Director of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. "When fertility services including IVF are covered, physicians can tailor care to provide the most medically and cost-effective treatment, sparing families unnecessary health risks and costs."

"Our state is a leader in reproductive freedom, but we're lagging behind when it comes to ensuring that all people who want to have children are able to do so," said Reproductive Freedom for All Director of State Campaigns Caroline Mello Roberson. "California's existing law is grossly inadequate; coverage for fertility and infertility treatment is the only element of reproductive care excluded from insurance coverage. By excluding IVF alone, it leaves out the most effective treatment for infertility."

"With the financial burden of fertility treatments being simply insurmountable for most, SB 729 is a long overdue bill that will finally make IVF and other treatments more affordable and accessible in California. The bill also addresses the outdated and discriminatory definitions that have shut out too many LGBTQ+ couples from accessing the care they need to start a family," said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. "We commend the Legislature for recognizing the importance of inclusive fertility care and for taking bold action to support all families. It's time that we join the growing list of states that have already guaranteed this essential coverage. We urge Governor Newsom to sign SB 729 into law and solidify California's role as a leader in reproductive freedom and LGBTQ+ rights."

"How much should equality cost California?" said Our Family Coalition Executive Director Mimi Demissew. "Passing SB 729 will finally bring an end to California's bigoted law and bring California closer to standing on the right side of history by supporting the human right of wanting to and having children. I trust that Governor Newsome will not stand in the way of progress and am hopeful that he will sign SB 729 into law. Like our former First Lady, Michelle Obama, for many Californians medically assisted fertility treatment is the only way to have children."

SB 729 is cosponsored by Insurance Commissioner Lara, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association; Reproductive Freedom for All California; The Alliance for Fertility Preservation; Equality California; American Society for Reproductive Medicine; Our Family Coalition; and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

SB 729 has received the endorsement of more than 75 non-profits, associations, and organizations across the state, as well as thousands of advocate letters to lawmakers voicing support for the bill.

Learn more about Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) at: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Image of senator for media: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/sites/sd20.senate.ca.gov/files/website/sd20_headshot.jpg

RELATED LINKS:

https://asrmcongress.org/asrm-publishes-a-new-more-inclusive-definition-of-infertility/

The California State Legislature approved Senate Bill 729, authored by State Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) and sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, with bipartisan support today sending the measure to Governor Newsom's desk with votes of 55-0 in the Assembly and 30-8 in the Senate.

Related link: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Long Time Ferret Activist Pat Wright Files Lawsuit Against California Fish and Game Commission President Eric Sklar

LA MESA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pat Wright, a resident of La Mesa, California, has filed a lawsuit against Eric Sklar, President of the California Fish and Game Commission in San Diego Superior Court, challenging the arbitrary classification of domestic ferrets as wild animals. The lawsuit, titled Wright v. Sklar, was filed in the San Diego Superior Court and seeks a writ of mandate and declaratory relief. Wright is the founder of LegalizeFerrets.org.

Mr. Wright, acting pro se, asserts that the California Fish and Game Commission's decision to categorize domestic ferrets as wild animals, without conducting thorough (or any) scientific studies or affording meaningful public input, is unjust and lacks a foundation in scientific evidence. The lawsuit alleges that this decision subjects domestic ferrets to unnecessary prohibition and regulatory restrictions.

The lawsuit highlights the fundamental rights at stake, including property rights, due process rights, and the right to have governmental decisions based on scientific evidence. Mr. Wright contends that the Commission's actions represent a clear violation of these rights and are incompatible with legal standards governing the proper classification of domesticated animals.

In response to a motion to demurrer filed by the Attorney General's office on behalf of Mr. Sklar, Mr. Wright has provided a detailed response, citing legal precedents and challenging the grounds for demurrer. He maintains that his petition for a writ of mandate is legally sufficient and urges the Commission to reconsider its intended demurrer.

Mr. Wright emphasizes his commitment to pursuing judicial recourse in a diligent and expedient manner. Despite efforts to secure legal representation, Mr. Wright has been unable to find an attorney, and he encourages any legal assistance or support in this matter.

For further information or inquiries regarding the lawsuit, please contact Wright at 619-303-0645 or via email at CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org.

REF - court document ID: Case No.: 37-2024-00006114-CU-MC-CTL

Pat Wright, a resident of La Mesa, California, has filed a lawsuit against Eric Sklar, President of the California Fish and Game Commission in San Diego Superior Court, challenging the arbitrary classification of domestic ferrets as wild animals. The lawsuit, titled Wright v. Sklar, was filed in the San Diego Superior Court and seeks a writ of mandate and declaratory relief. Wright is the founder of LegalizeFerrets.org.

Related link: https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

Senate Bill 729 to Increase Access to Fertility Care for Millions of Californians Postponed to 2024 by Assembly Appropriations Committee

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024. SB 729 would require large group health plans to provide coverage for fertility care, including treatment for infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) - expanding access, improving care, and removing economic barriers for millions of eligible Californians.

SB 729 passed the state Senate in May by a large margin of 31-3 and advanced out of the Assembly Health Committee in August. Fourteen states have passed IVF insurance laws.

"A two year bill is not the outcome we hoped for, but it does allow us to continue our fight," said Senator Menjivar. "SB 729 progressed farther in the legislative process than any similar bills attempting to decrease inequities in fertility care coverage, which is why I am optimistic and will not give up. Californians who wish to build a family deserve equity and justice, not the current discriminatory law that withholds the safest and most reliable methods of fertility care from many of them. Soon, we will make California the true leader in reproductive justice."

According to a recent report, the World Health Organization estimates 1 in 6 people globally experience infertility. Lack of insurance coverage for fertility services is the most significant barrier to creating a family.

"Infertility affects people of all socioeconomic levels, racial identities, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and religious beliefs," said Insurance Commissioner Lara. "As someone who has fought for affordable and more equitable access to healthcare services during my time in the California State Legislature and as Insurance Commissioner, I am proud to co-sponsor SB 729 to ensure fair and equal access to fertility treatments."

"I remain committed to this important issue that unfairly impacts so many Californians," said State Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), who has introduced several pieces of legislation since 2019 to address this issue. "Paying out of pocket for infertility treatment imposes an insurmountable financial burden on the LGBTQ+ population and others whose insurance does not cover this medically-necessary care. We must address this gap in our healthcare system."

In addition to protecting against exclusionary insurance coverage for infertility, SB 729 ensures cancer patients are eligible for IVF insurance to complete their family building after preserving their eggs, sperm, or embryos under SB 600. In 2019, SB 600 passed to provide insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients with medical indications.

"Nobody should be faced with the heartbreaking choice of deciding whether to have a child or to get lifesaving treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation, which can impact fertility," said State Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), who introduced SB 600. "SB 600 helped give cancer patients a path to preserve their fertility. SB 729 is the crucial next step in our fight for California families."

"Infertility is recognized as a disease by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and The American Society for Reproductive Medicine," said Dr. Marcelle Cedars, the Immediate Past President of American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Director of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. "Yet California continues to set infertility apart from other diseases in one basic, shameful way - by allowing insurance companies to diagnose but not to comprehensively treat."

"Our state is a leader in reproductive freedom, but we're lagging behind when it comes to ensuring that all people who want to have children are able to do so," said NARAL Pro-Choice California Director Shannon Olivieri Hovis. "California's existing law is grossly inadequate; coverage for fertility and infertility treatment is the only element of reproductive care excluded from insurance coverage. By excluding IVF alone, it leaves out the most effective treatment for infertility."

"No one should have to choose between their livelihood and their aspiration to become a parent, including members of the LGBTQ+ community," said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. "SB 729 is a long overdue step to expand access to fertility coverage for all Californians and remove discriminatory language from our state's insurance laws. We are grateful to Senator Menjivar for being such a fierce champion for LGBTQ+ families and look forward to continuing this fight with her next year."

In addition to Insurance Commissioner Lara, the bill is cosponsored by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association; NARAL Pro-Choice California; The Alliance for Fertility Preservation; Equality California; American Society for Reproductive Medicine; and Our Family Coalition. SB 729 has received the endorsement of more than 65 non-profits, associations, and organizations across the state, as well as thousands of advocate letters to lawmakers voicing support for the bill.

Learn more about Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) at: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

CITATIONS:

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978920068315

State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024.

Related link: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Opposition to AB-1147 Gains Momentum: Advocates Raise Concerns Over Consumer Voice

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Assembly Bill 1147 (AB-1147) is under scrutiny as concerns mount over its potential impact on the voice of consumers and the democratization of decision-making. Leading this charge is Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a vocal advocate and DDS consumer who has rallied opposition against the bill, and who is a candidate for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. AB-1147 is scheduled for a hearing, and its implications have ignited a wave of concern among consumers and advocates alike.

Henny Kupferstein and a coalition of concerned consumers have voiced their objections to AB-1147, citing a lack of safeguards for consumers' interests. The bill, as it stands, appears to prioritize substantial financial gains for traditional vendors within the $15-billion program, without explicitly addressing consumer protection and advocacy.

"It's disheartening to witness the exclusion of consumer perspectives from the analysis of AB-1147," laments Kupferstein. "This exclusion sends a troubling message about the state of our democracy, making consumers feel voiceless and sidelined in matters that affect them directly."

Kupferstein, in a bold move, has initiated contact with the Senate Appropriations Committee, urging them to reconsider AB-1147 in light of the widespread consumer opposition. This opposition is underscored by consumers' collective demand for the bill's rejection, claiming it would lead to unjustified expenses and an unbalanced distribution of resources.

Notably, consumers of Regional Centers have united in submitting a letter of opposition to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Their aim is not only to register their protest but also to ensure that their voices are heard and acknowledged. The demand for confirmation of receipt of their opposition letter highlights the gravity of their concerns.

Clarifications have been made by Kupferstein, who emphasizes that the sponsor, Disability Voices United (DVU), does not represent consumer interests in their opposition to AB-1147. Kupferstein further urges the Senate to discern individualized consumer voices from DVU template letters, affirming that these templates do not truly reflect the breadth of consumer sentiment against the bill.

In a surprising twist, Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a dedicated consumer-constituent, has announced her Campaign for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. This underlines the determination of consumers to secure their rights and influence legislative decisions that impact their lives.

For further inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Henny Kupferstein, votehenny@gmail.com or http://www.votehenny.com

As AB-1147 approaches its hearing date, the voices of concerned consumers like Henny Kupferstein ring clear: democracy must be upheld, consumer voices must be honored, and bills like AB-1147 must be critically assessed to ensure their alignment with the interests of those they affect.

See You in Sacramento

Join the movement, and look advocates in the eye on Friday, September 1st, as they gather in Sacramento to occupy the Senate for consumer rights and democratic representation.

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/SyxhCCiYFII

Assembly Bill 1147 (AB-1147) is under scrutiny as concerns mount over its potential impact on the voice of consumers and the democratization of decision-making. Leading this charge is Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a vocal advocate and DDS consumer who has rallied opposition against the bill, and who is a candidate for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. AB-1147 is scheduled for a hearing, and its implications have ignited a wave of concern among consumers and advocates alike.

Related link: http://www.votehenny.com

ViewTech’s Video Borescopes Utilized for Inspecting Balconies and Elevated Structures

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In response to the 2015 deck collapse in Berkeley which caused six fatalities, California legislation signed into law SB 721 and SB 326 requiring periodic inspections of exterior elevated elements (EEE) that structurally rely on wood or wood-based materials, says ViewTech Borescopes.

California Senate Bill 721 relates to apartment complexes with more than three units, while senate bill 326 pertains to condominiums or multi-family housing controlled by residential homeowners' associations (HOAs).

Any entry, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and other entry structure that are elevated more than six feet above ground level must be checked for cracks, rotting, insect damage, rusted fasteners or connectors, and mold or mildew exposure.

There are many methods, techniques, and types of equipment that can be utilized during these necessary evaluations of EEE, including visual inspection, infrared thermography, destructive testing, and video borescopes. With initial safety investigations needing to be completed by January 1, 2025, ViewTech Borescopes has a multitude of clients that own VJ-3 Far Focus video borescopes specifically for these inspections.

When completing inspections, licensed structural engineers, architects, contractors, or certified building inspectors drill a series of holes through materials and use a ViewTech VJ-3 video borescope to take photos and videos to assist with necessary reports, including photographs of any damage found. ViewTech Borescopes no-cost, no-demo program is available to trial by professionals completing SB 721 or SB 326 inspections.

About ViewTech Borescopes

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's #1 seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

For more information on VJ-3 Video Borescope: https://www.viewtech.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/qi8Yx7NVVcE

In response to the 2015 deck collapse in Berkeley which caused six fatalities, California legislation signed into law SB 721 and SB 326 requiring periodic inspections of exterior elevated elements (EEE) that structurally rely on wood or wood-based materials, says ViewTech Borescopes.

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

Lincoln County Voters Triumph as Board of Elections Scraps Plans to Close 7 Polling Locations

LINCOLNTON, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- After several attempts by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to reduce the number of polling places in Lincoln County Georgia, the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda and other voting rights groups were elated that the voice of the voters was heard and their efforts to stop the board from closing seven locations to create one was successful.

Rev. Denise Freeman, a local civil and human rights activist who led the efforts to collect signatures from voters on two separate petitions said, "Ï would love to be able to celebrate the hard work of Lincoln County voters to stop the board from consolidating seven polling locations into one but I can't. There's still work to do to make sure that every eligible voter in Lincoln County is able to cast a ballot that counts in the upcoming Midterm Elections."

The Lincoln County Board of Elections voted 3-0 against closing polling places on Wednesday.

Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda said, "The voters made sure their voices were heard. They knocked on doors and collected the required signatures for the petition to stop the plan to reduce the polling places to one. Needless to say, the board pivoted and announced an alternative plan to reduce the locations to three, nullifying the petition."

Talking to a group of about 300 women attending the Black Women's Roundtable National Summit in Washington, DC Butler continues, "They were playing games with the peoples' right to vote. But, in less than a week we were able to assist the Lincoln County voters in collecting signatures to stop the second plan, and we were ready to go a third time but the board decided to keep seven polling locations. This is indicative of power voters have by being engaged in the process. The people spoke and elected officials had to listen."

The petition presented with the requisite names in December reads, "We, the undersigned Lincoln County registered voters do hereby object to a proposal by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to close our current polling locations and to create a single polling location for all Lincoln County voters."

The petition drive was coordinated by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda, Common Cause Georgia, Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, Black Voters Matter, Southern Poverty Law Center and Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials. Local activists and community members helping to coordinate are: Rev. Denise Freeman, civil/human rights activist, Bishop Willie Jackson, Christ Centered Outreach Ministry, and Rev. Christopher Johnson, Augusta Interfaith Coalition.

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA

Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange and Savannah.

For more information visit http://thepeoplesagenda.org, email coalition@bellsouth.net or call the People's Agenda at (404) 653-1199.

After several attempts by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to reduce the number of polling places in Lincoln County Georgia, the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda and other voting rights groups were elated that the voice of the voters was heard and their efforts to stop the board from closing seven locations to create one was successful.

Related link: https://www.thepeoplesagenda.org/

A Ballot Initiative in Nevada Aimed at Closing the Great American Divide

CARSON CITY, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- What if we could resolve America's bitter division with one simple fix, without anybody having to change their mind on the issues, or switch parties? Ready for pigs to sprout wings? The folks at Common Sense for Uniting America (CSUA) believe that the division in America is a direct result of our voting method, and they just filed a ballot initiative in Carson City to prove it.

"WHO Americans vote for is far less important than HOW they vote," said Founder of CSUA and retired Naval Commander and gaming systems specialist Ted Getschman. "When it comes to solving the gridlock in America, we've been looking in the wrong direction. You can't blame the American people, or even the politicians. It's not Mitch McConnell or Nancy Pelosi or even dark money. It's just collateral damage. It's the unintended byproduct of an antiquated voting system."

Commander Getschman calls his new voting system MaxVoting, and it works a lot like the star rating system for products on Amazon. "When Americans go to the ballot box, we ask them who do you want to win? Red or blue? Right or left? That's the wrong question," Getschman says. "And it leaves almost half the country frustrated and suspicious of the results."

In MaxVoting, voters are asked to express their opinion in a star rating that reflects on how much each candidate agrees with their stand on the issues. The candidate with the most stars at the end wins the election, because they will have agreed with most people the most. MaxVoting measures voter opinion on all of the candidates, rather than just voting once in a choice of two.

Common Sense for Uniting America believes that MaxVoting would make political division obsolete, because it's a system that doesn't begin by dividing the electorate. And candidates are not incentivized to enflame their bases, because majority opinion, the winning position, lies most often in the center.

"Replacing majority rule with majority opinion rule would incentivize candidates to move to the center, in order to align with America's steadying heartbeat, rather than today's volatile extremes," Getschman said. "It would change everything practically overnight."

Common Sense for Uniting America filed a ballot initiative on March 1 to institute MaxVoting in Nevada. It is a part of a larger state-by-state effort to update America's voting process to reflect the demands of the 21st century. They need 150,000 Nevada voters to register on CommonSenseforUnitingAmerica.org to get the initiative on the ballot.

"We could heal political division in America, and nobody would have to change their minds about anything," Getschman added. "In most states, we wouldn't even have to reprint the ballot forms."

Common Sense for Uniting America

https://www.commonsenseforunitingamerica.org/

https://commonsenseforunitingamerica.substack.com

What if we could resolve America's bitter division with one simple fix, without anybody having to change their mind on the issues, or switch parties? Ready for pigs to sprout wings? The folks at Common Sense for Uniting America (CSUA) believe that the division in America is a direct result of our voting method, and they just filed a ballot initiative in Carson City to prove it.

California Ferret Owners Submit Ballot Initiative to Attorney General for Legal Opinion, But Attorney General Ignores Civil Code on Domestic Animals

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Non-profit Legalize Ferrets (legalizeferrets.org) announced today that we are disappointed that California Attorney General ignores Civil Code in Domestic Ferret Ballot Initiative.

LegalizeFerrets.org, a ferret legalization grassroots organization, has repeatedly asked the California Attorney General for a legal opinion.

Since the civil code says domestic animals are legal:

CIVIL CODE - CIV

DIVISION 2. PROPERTY [654 - 1422]

There may be ownership of all inanimate things which are capable of appropriation or of manual delivery; of all domestic animals; of all obligations; of such products of labor or skill as the composition of an author, the good will of a business, trade marks and signs, and of rights created or granted by statute.

Every credible source, and even the name states - domestic ferrets are domestic animals Therefore we wanted to know if the state of California officially recognized the domestic ferret as domestic would that mean they're legal? But we never received a reply from the AG.

According to the California Attorney General's website:

* As the chief law officer of the state, the California Attorney General provides legal opinions upon request to designated state and local public officials and government agencies on issues arising in the course of their duties. The formal legal opinions of the Attorney General have been accorded "great respect" and "great weight" by the courts.

Supporters of LegalizeFerrets.org have asked their representatives to make this request without success. So, we filed a ballot initiative in hopes that the title and summary would answer this question.

It was a treacherous journey. The AG's office ignored all our questions. We dealt with the Legislative Analyst's office and the Secretary of State's office - all successful; those people were friendly and helpful. But we could not get an answer on how to submit the ballot initiative from the AG until a Democratic Party activist with the state of Alaska gave us a contact phone number at the Secretary of State's office. Anabel Renteria finally emailed us with the suggestion:

You can submit your initiative anytime, in person, at the following address:

Department of Justice
1300 I St.
Sacramento, CA 95814

Five weeks later the title and summary were posted on their website:

California law identifies ferrets as wild animals that are restricted because "such animals are undesirable and a menace to native wildlife, the agricultural interests of the state, or to the public health or safety." Current law and regulations make it illegal to own ferrets as pets without a state permit.

No mention of the conflict between California's civil code which allows ownership of all domestic animals and other, namely Fish and Game Code which says:

* FISH AND GAME CODE 2116: Put ferrets in a group of wild animals. Says they are "not normally domesticated in this state as determined by the commission."

* FISH AND GAME CODE 2118: It is unlawful to import, transport, possess, or release alive into this state, except under a revocable, nontransferable permit as provided in this chapter and the regulations pertaining thereto, any wild animal of the following species: (ferrets are included in this list).

* (CCR), title 14, section 671: (a) It shall be unlawful to import, transport, or possess live animals restricted in subsection (c) below except under permit issued by the department. (You know ferrets are included in this list)

* (CCR), title 14, section 671: (b) The commission has determined the below listed animals are not normally domesticated in this state.

Why are these codes relevant but the civil code allowing ownership of all domestic animals isn't even mentioned?

Why won't the AG's office even communicate with us? We have a very valid and sincere question.

Facts are stubborn things. No one states that the domestic ferret is a wild animal. No one believes they are "wild," "undesirable," or a "menace." They are legal in 48 states without any negative consequences.

Learn more at: https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

Non-profit Legalize Ferrets (legalizeferrets.org) announced today that we are disappointed that California Attorney General ignores Civil Code in Domestic Ferret Ballot Initiative. The ferret legalization grassroots organization, has repeatedly asked the California Attorney General for a legal opinion.

Related link: https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

ACNM Reaffirms Opposition to Legislative Threats to Abortion Care

SILVER SPRING, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is committed to people having unfettered access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care services, including abortion care, that are readily available, affordable, and guided by objective evidence-based information. Given this position, ACNM is dismayed by the failure of the United States Supreme Court to block the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 8, legislation that allows for the ban of abortions (which would include cases of rape or incest) as early as six weeks into pregnancy.

This decision sets in motion a dangerous precedent of upending the protections afforded under Roe v. Wade by allowing the most restrictive abortion law to go into effect in the second largest state in the country.

ACNM opposes legislative threats to abortion care. ACNM President, Cathy Collins-Fulea states, "ACNM continues to stand by our position that as midwives, we trust our patients as the experts of their own well-being and support each person's right to self-determination, access to comprehensive health information, and active participation in all aspects of an individualized plan of care."

The ACNM Code of Ethics mandates that midwives engage in the process of non-coercive, evidence-based informed consent and shared decision-making. Therefore, we object to any legislation and/or regulation that interferes with the patient-provider relationship.

"ACNM is committed to individual patient autonomy across the spectrum of reproductive health, including abortion. This commitment includes advocating to keep abortion access unconditionally safe and legal for all people midwives serve, but especially for vulnerable populations with limited resources and unequal access to quality healthcare," stated ACNM CEO Katrina Holland.

American College of Nurse-Midwives actively stands together with our other colleagues in sexual and reproductive health care and social justice advocates as we voice our strong objection to the erosion of bodily autonomy and access to essential health care services, including abortion care.

About ACNM

With over 6,500 members, ACNM is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. ACNM promotes excellence in midwifery education, clinical practice, and research. With roots dating to 1929, our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM provides research, administers, and promotes continuing education programs, establishes education and clinical practice standards, and creates liaisons with state and federal agencies and members of Congress to increase the visibility and recognition of midwifery care.

Learn more at https://www.midwife.org/.

American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is committed to people having unfettered access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care services, including abortion care, that are readily available, affordable, and guided by objective evidence-based information. Given this position, ACNM is dismayed by the failure of the United States Supreme Court to block the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 8.

Related link: https://www.midwife.org/

Individual with Down Syndrome Testifies for Phasing Out Subminimum Wages for Individuals with Disabilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), the leading organization for all individuals with Down syndrome, and the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC), the premier resource for information, advocacy and networking in Massachusetts, applaud the testimony of John Anton at Wednesday's Education & Labor Committee joint subcommittee hearing titled "Phasing Out Subminimum Wages: Supporting the Transition to Competitive Integrated Employment for Workers with Disabilities."

Mr. Anton, who works as MDSC's legislative specialist, has been a vocal advocate on issues concerning the rights of individuals with Down syndrome. His testimony is an important part of efforts by the community to support the passage of the Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act (H.R. 2373) which was introduced by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA).

At the hearing, Mr. Anton spoke about the vast difference between his work at MDSC and his experience working in a sheltered workshop. While working for subminimum wages, he was bored and asked his boss for more work. He was told no and quit his job on the spot. He went on to work for the Massachusetts State House and intern in Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers' office prior to his role at MDSC.

"It is all about respect and dignity as a citizen for me and not being stigmatized by labels, which belong on jars not people!" said Mr. Anton.

"We are thrilled that John had an opportunity to lend his powerful voice in this important forum," said MDSC Executive Director Maureen Gallagher. "Being paid an unfair wage is, unfortunately, a topic that John knows all too well. But not only has he survived, he has become a leading spokesperson in the movement to ensure that all people with Down syndrome and other disabilities have equal access to employment and other opportunities." Gallagher added that MDSC is also working on programmatic solutions to the disability employment crisis. "Through our Your Next Star employment initiative, MDSC is outreaching directly to employers to open their eyes to the abilities of employees with Down syndrome and help them diversify their workforces," she said.

Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 allows employers to pay people with disabilities less than the minimum wage (subminimum wage). People with disabilities who are employed under the 14(c) certificates are trained to perform mundane tasks for as little as $0.02 an hour, according to a 2018 report from the National Council on Disability.

"Despite being referred to as training programs, these environments do very little to build capacity or transfer into skills necessary to help people transition into other employment options," said Matteo Lieb, Employment Policy and Program Manager at NDSS. "This practice reinforces the misconception that individuals with disabilities are less productive and creates an artificial barrier to future employment opportunities."

As support builds for wage equity for people with disabilities around the country, NDSS, in partnership with the MDSC and other grassroots advocates, will continue to support phasing out subminimum wage at the federal and state levels.

"Equitable employment is a key legislative priority for NDSS," said President & CEO Kandi Pickard. "We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to work in an inclusive, competitive role where they can acquire meaningful skills and are paid a fair wage. Phasing out 14(c) will help pave the way for equality in the workplace for people with Down syndrome and other disabilities."

About NDSS

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events and programs such as the National Advocacy & Policy Center, which seeks to create systemic change through engaged advocacy; the National Buddy Walk® Program, which honors and celebrates individuals with Down syndrome in local communities across the world, and other initiatives that provide support, informational resources and community engagement opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and those who support them. Visit http://www.ndss.org for more information about NDSS.

About MDSC

MDSC has been working with NDSS for over a decade to promote policies that improve the lives of all people with Down syndrome. MDSC has sent a delegation to NDSS's Buddy Walk on Washington annually to meet with legislators and share the importance of our disability policy priorities. MDSC also offers a broad array of programs to serve people with Down syndrome and their families throughout Massachusetts, including: A Buddy Walk® Program that gives individuals, schools, community groups, and local businesses an opportunity to get involved in fundraising campaigns; Self-Advocate Programs like Advocates in Motion and our Self-Advocate Advisory Council, which provide opportunities for teens and adults with Down syndrome while making empowerment a central component; Parents First Call Program, a volunteer, state-wide group of trained parent mentors available 24/7 to listen, share, answer questions, and provide valuable information; and other programs like our Diversity Outreach & Support Program and our affiliate programs Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) and the Down Syndrome-Autism Connection that serve the entire Down syndrome community.

To learn more, visit https://mdsc.org/ and https://www.yournextstar.org/ for more information.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/ZCGgJKhim3I

RELATED LINKS:

https://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/phasing-out-subminimum-wages-supporting-the-transition-to-competitive-integrated-employment-for-workers-with-disabilities

https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2373

MEDIA CONTACT:
Joshua Komyerov
Director of Communications, MDSC
jkomyerov @ mdsc.org
781-221-0024 ext 202

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) applaud the testimony of John Anton at Wednesday's Education & Labor Committee joint subcommittee hearing, "Phasing Out Subminimum Wages: Supporting the Transition to Competitive Integrated Employment for Workers with Disabilities."

Related link: https://mdsc.org/

Virginia Passes Two Bills Increasing Access to Midwifery Care

SILVER SPRING, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been a busy and productive legislative season for the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). The organization is anticipating several wins across the country, but right now is thrilled that two bills in the Commonwealth of Virginia were signed by Governor Ralph Northam this month. It was through careful planning, tireless advocacy and coordinated teamwork that the Virginia ACNM Affiliate was able to make Virginia the eighth state in the country to recognize Certified Midwives (CMs) and the 28th state to allow Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) to practice to the full extent of their education and clinical training and be regulated without physician control.

Virginia joins Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island in recognizing the CM credential, increasing access to midwifery care, and potentially improving outcomes for women, babies, and all who need high-quality, individualized sexual and reproductive care.

"With maternal health care deserts throughout the Commonwealth, we need to address care in underserved areas with initiatives that remove barriers to practice unrelated to health and safety. Greater access to maternal healthcare is essential in reducing disparities in maternal and infant mortality and morbidity, and stark racial and class inequities in maternal healthcare access," says Virginia Affiliate President Katie Page, CNM, FACNM.

Page, along with the affiliate legislative committee chair, Nichole Wardlaw, CNM, FACNM, led a fantastic team, including Karen Kelly, CM; Mary Ellen Bouchard, CNM, MS, FACNM; and their lobbyist, Julianne Condrey, at breakneck speed through a very short session of the Virginia General Assembly.

The CM credential was developed in 1994 to expand access to midwifery through multiple educational pathways. The first CM was licensed in 1997. The CM pathway includes a graduate degree in midwifery from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) and board certification through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). CMs differ from CNMs only in that they are not also licensed as nurses. CMs and CNMs meet the same core competencies, sit for the same board exam, and have identical scopes of practice, including prescriptive privileges.

"We are thrilled to see Virginia supporting expanded access to midwifery care," says ACNM President Cathy Collins-Fulea, DNP, CNM, FACNM. "Ensuring midwives are represented at every table is key to mainstreaming midwifery in the United States. We look forward to continuing our work to improve care and reduce inequities in maternal healthcare.

The ACNM Department of Government Affairs and Advocacy has been working hard with dedicated, savvy volunteer affiliate leaders to make full practice authority a reality in all US states and territories. ACNM's vision of midwifery for every community is our guide in all policy making efforts. As Nichole Wardlaw stated about the successful Virginia efforts, "We can't keep doing things the same way and expect different outcomes." Bravo to the Virginia ACNM Affiliate for these two incredible wins for midwives and the people they serve.

About ACNM

With over 6,500 members, ACNM is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. ACNM promotes excellence in midwifery education, clinical practice, and research. With roots dating to 1929, our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM provides research, administers, and promotes continuing education programs, establishes education and clinical practice standards, and creates liaisons with state and federal agencies and members of Congress to increase the visibility and recognition of midwifery care.

Learn more at https://www.midwife.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
ACNM Membership & Communications
240.485.1813; membership@acnm.org

It's been a busy and productive legislative season for the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). The organization is anticipating several wins across the country, but right now is thrilled that two bills in the Commonwealth of Virginia were signed by Gov

Related link: https://www.midwife.org/

Governor Abbot’s Disaster Declaration Recognizes Dire Relief Support but the Texas Department Licensing and Regulation’s (TDLR) Responsive Mold Regulation Changes Wrongly Backs Emergency Licensed Mold Remediation Efforts, a Threat to Public Health and Safety

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- In response to the announcement issued by Governor Abbot on February 12, 2021, in regard to the severe winter weather that caused statewide damage, the Texas Mold Assessors and Remediators Association (TMARA), the leading professional organization dedicated to protecting consumers throughout Texas, issued the following statement:

Statement by Mike Marshall, President, TMARA:

"At TMARA, we continue to fight for the regulation of our mold industry to protect consumer health, safety and financial well-being. While we understand the need for Governor Abbot's call to action and the support of our fellow mold professionals, the mold regulations should not change to grant emergency licensed contractors the ability to perform mold remediation without an independent mold assessment, mold remediation protocols in place and standard reporting requirements as outlined in the Texas Mold Regulations.

Repairs are just getting started, and property owners need to be aware that they do not want just anyone addressing a potential mold issue. They must seek someone who is qualified, licensed and working inside the mold regulations set forth by the State of Texas. By using an emergency licensed mold remediation contractor, property owners may not be able to obtain a protocol that outlines the steps on properly removing mold from a property, nor will property owners be able to receive a signed Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation (CMDR) without the requirement of having their entire property inspected and cleared, not merely the mold-impacted areas. The CMDR provides property owners and potential future buyers with a level of assurance that a mold issue has been eliminated and the underlying cause has been remedied. As outlined on the Consumer Mold Information Sheet (CMIS), a TDLR publication, 'Receiving a certificate documenting that the underlying cause of the mold was remediated is an advantage for a homeowner. It prevents an insurer from making an underwriting decision on the residential property based on previous mold damage or previous claims for mold damage. If you sell your property, the law requires that you provide the buyer a copy of all certificates you have received for that property within the preceding five years.' https://www.tdi.texas.gov/orders/co-03-1223.html

Unfortunately, we have seen these types of scenarios before. Someone uses an unqualified professional, and a few months down the road, a state-licensed mold assessor or remediator comes back to find a 'remediated' property worse off than it was from the initial damage. In fact, many of us are still addressing these same types of issues from Hurricane Harvey.

For property owners or professionals who want advice on the right way to move forward, consumers must:
* Contact a qualified water mitigation company and/or start drying out their home or building.
* If mold is suspected, contact a state-licensed mold assessment company or consultant to perform an initial mold assessment, obtain a protocol for mold remediation, hire a state-licensed mold remediation contractor to perform the remediation, have a Post Remediation Mold Assessment done and receive a Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation.
* To confirm the license status of a potential company or contractor, we recommend visiting https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/licensesearch/.

TMARA supports granting emergency licenses because given our state of emergency, mold professionals are in high demand. We do not support waving the other regulations that ensure consumer safety. We call on Governor Abbot to mandate that TDLR requires all emergency personnel to prove they meet our state qualifications and to require these emergency licensees to follow the same mold regulations that are required of the state licensees that support the millions of Texans that are affected by this disaster. Time and time again, we fight this battle, many state officials agree, and yet here we are once again risking the health and safety of the people of the great state of Texas."

More About TMARA:

Located in Austin, the Texas Mold Assessors and Remediators Association is the leading trade association in Texas with member companies making up the largest portion of the mold inspection and remediation marketplace in the state. TMARA was formed during the 86th Texas Legislation period when bills were proposed in both the Texas state Senate and House of Representatives to deregulate the mold industry. Our voices were heard, and those bills were not adopted, but our work is far from over. Members who gathered during that period saw not only a threat to industry standard but a need to fight irreversible change that would endanger public health and the livelihood of hundreds of licensed professionals. With a mission to continue to cultivate responsible mold inspections and remediations, TMARA offers an unparalleled commitment to a professional culture of credibility by maintaining regulation and high ethical practices. For more information, visit https://tmara.org.

In response to the announcement issued by Governor Abbot on February 12, 2021, in regard to the severe winter weather that caused statewide damage, the Texas Mold Assessors and Remediators Association (TMARA), the leading professional organization dedicated to protecting consumers throughout Texas, issued the following statement:

Related link: https://tmara.org/

Senate Reintroduces Legislation to Federally Invest in Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) Program

SILVER SPRING, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Yesterday, the Senate reintroduced the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness (MOMMA) Act, critical legislation that seeks to reduce the disparate maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, especially among Black and Brown birthing people and infants. The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) strongly supports the MOMMA Act.

Spearheaded by Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), the MOMMA Act would, among other initiatives, establish grant opportunities for entities with proven approaches to improving our nation's mortality rate by offering better maternal and postpartum health care.

Specifically, the MOMMA Act would invest federal funding in the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) program, a national partnership of organizations, including ACNM, with goals improving the culture of care to eliminate preventable maternal mortality and severe morbidity across the care continuum.

The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) strongly supports the MOMMA Act and applauds Senators Durbin and Duckworth for their leadership and commitment to improving the culture of health for pregnant and postpartum people.

"All pregnant and birthing people and babies should be served by a maternity care system that delivers safe, equitable, ethical, and patient-centered care, the hallmarks of midwifery," stated ACNM President, Cathy Collins-Fulea, DNP, CNM, FACNM. "Midwives stand ready to work with policymakers and stakeholders to implement evidence-based solutions, including reducing primary cesarean sections and increasing access to midwives and midwifery-led care models, to help improve maternal health outcomes for all people and communities."

Every year across the United States, of the 4,000,000 people who give birth, about 700 suffer fatal complications during pregnancy, while giving birth, or during the postpartum period, and 70,000 suffer near-fatal, partum-related complications. These statistics disproportionately impact Black and Brown pregnant and birthing people. Through the implementation of a comprehensive set of policies to improve data collection, dissemination of information on effective interventions, and expansion of access to health care and social services for postpartum people, the MOMMA Act is another piece of critical legislation that if realized, can help address escalating rates of maternal mortality and morbidity disproportionately impacting these communities.

Contact Amy Kohl (akohl@acnm.org) ACNM Director, Advocacy & Government Affairs, for more information on the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness (MOMMA) Act.

About ACNM

With over 6,500 members, ACNM is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. ACNM promotes excellence in midwifery education, clinical practice, and research. With roots dating to 1929, our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM provides research, administers, and promotes continuing education programs, establishes education and clinical practice standards, and creates liaisons with state and federal agencies and members of Congress to increase the visibility and recognition of midwifery care.

Learn more at https://www.midwife.org/.

CONTACT INFO:
ACNM Membership & Communications
240.485.1813; membership@acnm.org

Yesterday, the Senate reintroduced the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness (MOMMA) Act, critical legislation that seeks to reduce the disparate maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, especially among Black and Brown birthing people and infants. The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) strongly supports the MOMMA Act.

Related link: https://www.midwife.org/

Federal Bill to Address Unexpected Child, Infant Deaths is Now Law

ROSELAND, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The SUDC Foundation applauds final passage of Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act. This legislation was introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Doug Jones (D-AL) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) to combat sudden, unexpected infant and child deaths. The legislation was introduced in honor of Scarlett Pauley, who was lost to SUDC in January 2017 when she was just 16 months old.

Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a category of death in children over the age of one year which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation and autopsy. Most often, SUDC occurs in otherwise healthy children during sleep. Approximately 400 children are lost to SUDC in the United States every year.

"Scarlett's Sunshine is named after a little girl who was lost to Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood," said Senator Casey. "We must do more to understand why certain infants and young children have died unexpectedly, and to learn what is causing these deaths. I introduced the Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act to help increase our understanding of the causes of unexplained infant and child deaths and to help us develop new tools to prevent and reduce such deaths in the future. I am pleased that Congress has passed the Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act and it is now law."

"It's wonderful news that the Scarlett Sunshine Act is now law. I thank the incredible advocates and other lawmakers who made this all possible. I send my love to every family who had to experience this heartache and painful losses. This bill was written for Scarlett Lillian Pauley and other children who were lost to SUID/SUDC and works to prevent these tragedies. I am ready to continue building upon this legislation to save lives," Congresswoman Moore said.

"Scarlett's Sunshine Act will finally provide the support our country needs to ensure that infant and child deaths are comprehensively investigated, and that data is not only analyzed to help the individual family with the most accurate diagnosis but also help future research efforts," said Laura Gould Crandall, President and Co-Founder of the SUDC Foundation. "When your child dies, you are thrown into a public investigation system and you have no control over the tests being done on your child or the tests that are not being pursued. You often find out later, when it is too late. I am relieved to know that this new law will better support our country's response to these tragedies for the families directly affected, and to support the better health of all children."

"On January 8th, 2017, our lives were shattered when our beautiful, healthy, thriving daughter, Scarlett Lillian Pauley, went to sleep and never woke up. And we do not know why," said Stephanie Zarecky and Ryan Pauley. "Losing a child is the single greatest pain we could ever imagine and living without answers magnifies the tragedy exponentially. We try every day to spread Scarlett's Sunshine, allowing her memory to shine on and bring light to SUDC, the medical mystery that took her from us.

"We are so thankful her name will be able to live on in law and hope that one day no more families know the tragedy we have suffered. We are also so grateful to Senator Casey and Congresswoman Moore for their leadership on Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act in honor of Scarlett and all of the children who are dearly loved and deeply missed."

Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act strengthens existing efforts to understand SUID and SUDC better, facilitate data collection and analysis, improve preventative efforts, and support children and families.

The SUDC Foundation is proud to have advocated for this legislation. In November of 2019, SUDC Foundation board members and Ambassadors headed to Washington D.C. to educate their congressional representatives on SUDC and the importance of the legislation. Scarlett's mother, Stephanie, testified in front of Congress last year on the third anniversary of Scarlett's death.

To learn more and support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, please visit: https://sudc.org/advocacy/scarletts-sunshine-act

About the SUDC Foundation:

The SUDC Foundation is the only organization worldwide whose purpose is to promote awareness, advocate for research and support those affected by SUDC. The SUDC Foundation provides all services at no cost to families. Learn more: https://sudc.org.

*LOGO Link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0105s2p-scarlett-sunshine-300dpi.jpg

The SUDC Foundation applauds final passage of Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act. This legislation was introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Doug Jones (D-AL) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03).

Related link: https://sudc.org/

Ed ‘NJWeedman’ Forchion Wages His Own War on Drugs – Sues the State of New Jersey Over ‘Bait and Switch’ Cannabis Regulation Laws

TRENTON, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 'war on drugs' has just taken a wicked left turn. On Friday, November 20, 2020, one of marijuana's staunchest supporters, Ed "NJWeedman" Forchion held an online press conference at his NJWeedman's Joint location, contesting New Jersey's recent legalization of cannabis. Forchion announced his federal lawsuit against New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, accusing the state of baiting New Jersey citizens into voting for the legalization of a corporate, Caucasian run cannabis industry, under the guise of legalizing marijuana.

Forchion notes that under the current developing legislation, marijuana will still be illegal and in fact, criminalized, in underserved communities.

View Case 3:20-cv-16582-PGS-TJB FORCHION v. MURPHY at: http://njweedman.com/Federal_Cannabis_lawsuit.pdf.

In a 40 plus page document, filed at the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, Forchion seeks to have the "Court declare unconstitutional and invalid the application and implementation of the 'Constitutional Amendment to Legalize Marijuana.'" Forchion asserts that the Regulated Cannabis Act, as the amendment is referred to in the lawsuit, "deprives him of equal protection and due process under the United States Constitution and subjects him to selective prosecution."

Forchion notes that the state unfairly allows Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act (CUMMA) dispensaries to possess large amounts of marijuana in violation of federal law while prosecuting individuals such as himself. Forchion, a long-time marijuana activist, has had numerous marijuana related prosecutions brought against him by the State of New Jersey, including a pending matter.

In addition, Forchion proposes that voters were duped into believing that they were voting to legalize marijuana, while unwittingly sanctioning a cannabis industry which only grants legalization to a majority of Caucasian owned corporate entities while criminalizing individuals of color, who in effect will not be granted similar market access.

"This new Caucasian corporate cannabis industry is a sham," apprizes Forchion. "Politicians are in cahoots with corporations to take over and control what is now a multi-billion-dollar industry while excluding the existing marijuana market. We are witnessing systematic discrimination. Only 'regulated cannabis' which is defined as the pot sold by dealers licensed by a new bureaucracy called the Cannabis Regulatory Commission will be allowed in the marketplace. But individuals possessing and selling marijuana - such as myself, will still be in violation of the law. The community that paved the road for legalization and paid the price with incarceration and felonies, are being locked out of the 'new' industry and will continue to be locked up."

"It's the cocaine vs. crack dilemma all over again," explains Forchion, "similar to the war on drugs when prison sentences were handed down to people of color for using crack cocaine, while individuals, who were most notably white, were hardly prosecuted for using powder cocaine. Our State Attorney General Gurbir Grewal is on record stating that the new amendment does not authorize 'unregulated marijuana.' New Jersey is subtly creating a distinction between 'marijuana' for the masses versus state 'regulated cannabis' for the establishment," cites Forchion.

New Jersey has come under mounting criticism since the recent passing of legalization. Politicians, community activists and the media have taken the state to task for attempting to push through a corporatized cannabis culture that doesn't seem to best serve its constituents. Headlines have drawn attention to the state's blatant interest in profits over compassion. In fact, lawmakers' first attempt at enabling legislation has been halted amid growing criticism. The number of licenses set aside for Black and Latino communities in the bill has been widely criticized and advocates have demanded more opportunities be extended for people with criminal records for low-level drug convictions.

Forchion, whose lawsuit positions him squarely amid the ongoing conflict, is no newcomer to battle. At cited in his lawsuit, he has been vehemently retaliated against in the past by the State of New Jersey. In 2002, he was jailed for advocating the legalization of marijuana. Forchion was held at the Burlington County Jail from August 19, 2002 until late January 2003 when United States District Court Federal Judge Joseph E. Irenas, U.S.D.J., hearing his civil rights suit, agreed that the state had violated Forchion's First Amendment right to advocate marijuana's legalization and ordered him released.

In 2016, Forchion and his partner, Debi Madaio, had their restaurant raided by Mercer County law enforcement authorities on marijuana dealing charges. Forchion was held without bail for over 400 days due to the retaliatory charge of witness tampering. He was acquitted by a jury and all charges were dismissed with no convictions.

Sign the NJWeedman's Joint Change.org petition at https://www.change.org/p/phil-murphy-demand-gov-phil-murphy-grant-njweedman-s-joint-a-recreational-cannabis-license.

Follow Ed "NJWeedman" Forchion across all social media at @NJWeedman and at https://www.njweedman.com/.

Photo Link: https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/923/FZVfvV.jpg

MEDIA CONTACT:
Makeda Smith
Jazzmyne Public Relations
makeda@jazzmynepr.com
Phone Number: 323-380-8819

The 'war on drugs' has just taken a wicked left turn. On Friday, November 20, 2020, one of marijuana's staunchest supporters, Ed "NJWeedman" Forchion held an online press conference at his NJWeedman's Joint location, contesting New Jersey's recent legalization of cannabis. (Case 3:20-cv-16582-PGS-TJB FORCHION v. MURPHY.)

Related link: https://www.facebook.com/NJWEEDMAN

The Team Shawnie Advocacy Group Unveils Bill To Protect Children With Disabilities

SEEKONK, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Team Shawnie Advocacy Group, an over-watch children's advocate agency based in Seekonk, MA, has been working vigorously alongside State Representative, Steven Howitt (R), Bristol County to implement Bill H. 132 (Shawnie Bill) that would close loopholes in our Mental Health Care system in Massachusetts. Because of these loopholes, abuse of incapacitated children and adolescents occur daily.

Shane and Cheryl Halajko, who live in Seekonk, have experienced this firsthand. Their child Shawnie is autistic. Their harrowing story of finding a safe and nurturing environment for their son to live his life without fear of abuse and mistreatment is mind blowing. Elected and appointed officials for years opposed them at almost every turn. Mired in bureaucracy and lack of knowledge, politicians pushed Shawnie into some very dangerous and life-threatening situations. Unfortunately, their experience is like thousands of other families throughout Massachusetts and the United States.

Bill H.132 (Shawnie Bill) addresses simple but effective changes to the law in Massachusetts. We will present the bill early next year. We hope that our local radio stations and journalists will help support the cause and tell the story. This bill will make a real and measurable impact on the lives of so many families around us. Please help us get the word out.

State Representative, Steven Howitt (R), Bristol County, and Shane Halajko are available for interviews. They will discuss the bill and Shawnie's experience in detail. This is a non-partisan issue, and we gratefully accept the help of all.

Resources which can be found on our website, https://teamshawniegroup.com/ include: a copy of the bill in its entirety -- short YouTube explainer video -- link to grassroots petition with over 3,000 signatures -- six-part podcast series.

Team Shawnie Advocacy Group
Shane Halajko
Website: https://teamshawniegroup.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamShawnie

The Team Shawnie Advocacy Group, an over-watch children's advocate agency based in Seekonk, MA, has been working vigorously alongside State Representative, Steven Howitt (R), Bristol County to implement Bill H. 132 (Shawnie Bill) that would close loopholes in our Mental Health Care system in Massachusetts. Because of these loopholes, abuse of incapacitated children and adolescents occur daily.

Related link: https://teamshawniegroup.com/

Mental Health Awareness License Plate Winning Design

LAFAYETTE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- BeingwellCA, a California 501(c)(3), submitted the initial design for the Mental Health Awareness License Plate to California Department of Education for DMV review.

The winning design was selected after a statewide contest held for high school students. Winning artist Anshuree Banerjee took her passion for art to create meaningful imagery for the new Mental Health California license plate.

"I wanted a design that clearly included California as part of the solution and was positive about mental health," said Anshuree, a student at Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon, California.

"This license plate has the potential of raising millions of dollars for student mental health which are so desperately needed in the post Covid-19 school environment. And it does it without raising taxes," said Graham Wiseman, CEO of BeingwellCA.

"Wellness Centers with Caring Adults have proven to be a key in early intervention. A 12-year University of Michigan study reported a reduction of youth deaths by 660%! We need these in all schools." (JAMA Psychiatry, Feb, 2019)

California Senator Steven Glazer (7th District) is the author of SB1223 (4COLIN) that authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a specialized license plate for Mental Health Awareness. Funds raised by the Mental Health License Plate will go to the California Department of Education for Mental Health Wellness Centers in California Schools. Due to Covid-19, this bill will carry over to 2021.

About BeingwellCA:

Graham & Caroline Wiseman founded BeingwellCA after the tragic loss of their son to suicide at age 15. With Gail Miller, they are now a leading voice to address the alarming rates of anxiety, depression and suicide ideation in our state. Some districts report depression rates amongst female juniors of 50% with serious suicide ideation of 20% in past year (CalSCHLS, 2018).

Suicide is the SECOND leading cause of death for ages 10-24 (2017 CDC WISQARS).

BeingwellCA's mission is to reduce anxiety, depression and suicide ideation in our youth. We do this by providing schools, parents, students and communities with tool kits and evidence-based strategies for Wellness Centers to provide mental health immediate support.

SB1223: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB1223

Visit https://beingwellca.org/ or call (925) 967-4438 for further information.

Media queries: info@beingwellca.org

BeingwellCA, a California 501(c)(3), submitted the initial design for the Mental Health Awareness License Plate to California Department of Education for DMV review.

Related link: https://beingwellca.org/

COVID-19 Response Shines Light on Need for Civil Liberty Protections: California Organization Drafts Bill to Fix Health and Safety Code

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In an effort to protect the right to body autonomy, California Health Coalition Advocacy (CHCA) has drafted legislation that would protect the right to refuse a long list of medical and non-medical interventions issued by the California Department of Public Health and Governor Newsom.

The organization points out that in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an onslaught of Governor's orders as well as an unusually high number of intrusive County Health Department ordinances. The breadth of powers granted, especially to unelected officials in county health offices, has surprised legislators and county supervisors.

Local Health Officers, who are not elected by their county constituents, have taken broad control of the response to this pandemic and created ordinances that come dangerously close to, if not outright, violating the right of Californians to decide how they manage their personal health choices.

"The right to refuse is based on fundamental constitutional principles. The sovereign nature of people necessitates that they be free and independent in all aspects of their life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness without interference from governmental power structures, and these inalienable rights need perpetual protection," said Diane Miller, who drafted the bill's language and who is also an attorney and Legal and Public Policy Director of National Health Freedom Coalition. This bill would ensure that the right to refuse stays intact.

CHCA's "Personal Rights During Infectious Outbreak and State of Emergency" bill would add Section 120137 to the health and safety code. Its main accomplishment would be to establish the right to refuse requirements and restrictions recently experienced by Californians.

The bill language stipulates the following: "... individuals retain the right to be free and independent and maintain their inalienable and fundamental rights including but not limited to the right to refuse the following activities whether for direct response or prevention: medical treatments or procedures; testing; physical or mental examination; vaccination; experimental procedures and protocols; collection of specimens; participation in tracking or tracing programs; the wearing of masks; the maintaining of measured distance from other humans and animals that is not otherwise unlawful; and the involuntary sharing of personal data or medical information."

"The power of California's Public Health Department has increased unchecked since the mid-90s. With the pandemic, the extent to which the local health officer can restrict the civil liberties of individuals has become apparent," stated Valerie Noble, president of CHCA. "They have the authority to take possession of a living body, destroy property and pets, and take any action they deem necessary, whether or not those actions are evidence-based. Furthermore, a person who refuses to comply with an order is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by fines and imprisonment. It is of utmost urgency that the rights of individuals during disease outbreaks are defined and protected."

California Health Coalition Advocacy is actively seeking a legislator to author their urgency bill.

About California Health Coalition Advocacy:

California Health Coalition Advocacy is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization that initiates and influences laws and policies to expand, protect, and promote the health and well-being of Californians. This includes the right to access, consent to, and refuse products, services, treatments, information, education, exposures, and environments.

Learn more: https://californiahealthcoalitionadvocacy.org/

In an effort to protect the right to body autonomy, California Health Coalition Advocacy (CHCA) has drafted legislation that would protect the right to refuse a long list of medical and non-medical interventions issued by the California Department of Public Health and Governor Newsom.

Keep Our Seniors Safe Act Signed by Governor Newsom

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces that California Governor Newsom signed the Keep Our Seniors Safe Act, a part of SB 172 (Portantino) which was signed into law on 12 October, 2019.

The Keep Our Seniors Safe Act strengthens the Health and Safety Code by adding safe gun storage requirements for firearms retained by residential care facilities for the elderly (RCFE - also known as assisted living facilities).

CARR sponsored this common-sense safe gun storage legislation in recognition that an estimated 70% of assisted living residents have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias (ADRD). Dementia is a primary reason families seek an assisted living placement for a family member.

Many assisted living facilities are licensed to accept and retain residents having mild to severe cognitive impairment. Common characteristics include disorientation, confusion, changes in mood or personality and impaired judgment. CARR's public records' research evidenced that some assisted living facilities were storing firearms in unlocked desk drawers, or allowing residents to retain weapons in their rooms.

The characteristics and associated behaviors of a resident with cognitive impairment, coupled with unsecured weapons inside an RCFE posed an unreasonable risk of harm to residents, families and any third party working in or visiting an assisted living facility.

The Keep Our Seniors Safe Act fills the statutory and regulatory gaps concerning firearm storage by requiring weapons to be centrally stored in the facility, in a locked gun safe meeting the regulatory standards established by the California Department of Justice.

The statute advances CARR's consumer-driven agenda focused on reducing health and safety risks to residents living in California's licensed assisted living facilities.

"This legislation (Chapter 840) gives the state's agency (Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division DSS/CCLD) responsible for licensing assisted living facilities definitive and unequivocal standards for determining compliant gun storage," said CARR's President, Christine Murphy.

This is CARR's second piece of legislation to become law; the first was AB 1523 (Atkins) requiring assisted living facilities to carry liability insurance.

About CARR:
Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization promoting transparency and accountability for consumers using assisted living services, and specializing in public document research on assisted living facilities, and the state's oversight of the industry. Learn more at: https://rcfereform.org/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1018s2p-CARR-RCFE-Reform-300dpi.jpg

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces that California Governor Newsom signed the Keep Our Seniors Safe Act, a part of SB 172 (Portantino) which was signed into law on 12 October, 2019.

Related link: https://rcfereform.org/

‘California Vaccine Fascism is Complete,’ says Dr. Harte

CORTE MADERA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dr. Don Harte, noted chiropractic activist and former Libertarian State Senate candidate, is disgusted, but not surprised, by the passage of SB266 and SB714, effectively ending medical exemptions for forced vaccination.

"This is the end of any parental choice or control, even the end of individual medical judgement, regarding State-mandated vaccination," according to Dr. Harte. "This is authoritarianism, justified by fake science."

Dr. Harte says, "The ruling class in Sacramento see us as sheep. We are supposed to forget that the first bill proposed and passed by Dr./Sen. Pan and his Big Pharma-paid cronies was simply to 'educate' parents. He promised that he would never take away a parent's right to choose." He goes on: "And then Dr Pan did just that, he took away a parent's right to choose, or not, a risk-laden medical procedure, vaccination for their children, allowing only medical exemptions."

"The most obvious goal of authoritarianism is conformity... obedience." Dr. Harte observed, "Dr. Pan and his cronies didn't count on some medical doctors having the intelligence and courage to make their own clinical decisions, attempting to take appropriate action to protect children exhibiting previous vaccine damage, as well as other factors, necessitating vaccine exemption."

"As expected," Dr. Harte says, "these real doctors were vilified by corrupt politicians and a crooked press, as 'selling fraudulent' exemptions to drum up business." He goes on: "This is as if all the doctors who are willing to vaccinate every child, regardless of previous and expected damage from vaccines, make no money from visits for vaccines, and for vaccine reactions, that they deny are vaccine reactions. Is Big Pharma making no money on this? And Big Pharma's billions? Now they terrorize their own licensed medical doctors so they cannot even exempt a child that has already been vaccine-damaged."

"As dictators throughout history used fake crises, so did Dr. Pan and company," charges Dr. Harte. "They cite recent 'measles epidemics', 127 in 2014 and 67 in 2019, of what used to be considered a normal childhood disease. Not a big deal disease. Not even big deal numbers. And vaccinated children have gotten the disease, from the vaccine. The last verifiable death was in 2003. What crisis?"

"You want to know about a real health crisis?" asks Dr. Harte. "The health of children has declined, precipitously, since the introduction of dozens and dozens of mandated vaccinations. There is no debate or dispute ... vaccines contain neuro and immunotoxins, and the very process of vaccination perverts normal immune system function. It is no wonder that the real epidemics among children are autism, Type 1 diabetes, Crohn's disease, life-threatening allergies, asthma, Guillain-Barre Syndrome and a variety of emotional/psychological disorders... all great business sources for Medicine and Big Pharma."

"These two new California laws are not based upon science. This is not public service," declares Dr. Harte. "This is nothing but marketing, of the lowest, sleaziest order. Lowest," he says, "because the medical industry, bathing in its position of trust and adoration by society, is creating a false sense of danger, while pushing a vaccine that is questionable in its effectiveness, and is certain in its danger."

Dr. Harte advises: "The State is unconcerned with the health of your children. Vaccination, specifically, and so-called 'preventative medicine' is not the road to health. The medical 'geniuses" don't get that health is not the lack of disease. Want health? Eat well, rest, exercise, handle stress and keep your nervous system free of interference with regular wellness chiropractic care."

Dr. Harte finally warns, "This parade of despotic laws is not about public health. It is about control by the State, and financial advantage to Big Pharma, the pediatricians and the politicians that support these anti-liberty bills. Mark my words... the State of California will not stop with children. They will come after us adults next. The evidence? SR58. What medical procedure will be next to be mandated by the State?"

Dr. Harte proclaims: "It is time to speak up for health and for liberty. The minds and bodies of children are getting damaged, directly from a medical procedure, dictated by the State. This is clearly a civil rights issue. The decent, courageous people arrested at the Capital, in protest of SB276 and SB714, are no different than the decent, courageous people who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr."

About Dr. Don Harte:
Dr. Don Harte, former medical student, is a principled, traditional chiropractor serving Marin and the Greater Bay Area since 1981. He is an activist in the struggle for free speech for chiropractors. Dr. Harte was named 2006 "Chiropractor of the Year" by the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA). He has served on the Boards of the WCA and the Council on Chiropractic Practice. His articles have been published in OMNI magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Chiropractic Journal and Journal of the California Chiropractic Association. More information: https://www.chirodrharte.com/

Media Contact:
Dr. Harte
o: (415) 460-6527
: (415) 847-9678
harteofchiropractic@gmail.com

PHOTO Links for Media:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0911s2p-dr-harte-upclose-300dpi.jpg
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0911-dr-harte-adjusting-300dpi.jpg

Dr. Don Harte, noted chiropractic activist and former Libertarian State Senate candidate, is disgusted, but not surprised, by the passage of SB266 and SB714, effectively ending medical exemptions for forced vaccination.

Related link: https://www.chirodrharte.com/

Florida Distillers Go to Capitol Hill to Urge Support for Spirits Tax Cut Bill

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The St. Augustine Distillery joined two Florida distillers along with more than 150 craft distillers from around the country who gathered in Washington, D.C. from July 22 through July 24 for the distilled spirits industry's 10th Annual Public Policy Conference, co-hosted by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States and the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA). The conference featured a series of legislative and regulatory sessions on key federal and state issues impacting the distilling industry.

As part of the conference, St. Augustine Distillery CEO Philip McDaniel, together with Paul Twyford of Winter Park Distillery and Roger Morenc of Marlin & Barrel Distilleries participated in two days of congressional office and state senate visits.

Meetings included Congressional Members John Rutherford, Lois Frankel and Donna Shalala along with staff from eight other members as well as staff from Senators Rubio and Scott to urge support for the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act (H.R. 1175/S. 362). This critical legislation makes permanent a federal excise tax cut on distilled spirits and was enacted in 2017. Without Congressional approval, the tax cut for distillers will expire on Dec. 31, 2019.

The group also discussed the harm that retaliatory tariffs on spirits exports are having on American distillers, large and small, and the importance of their distilleries to the economic development of the surrounding community.

"Meeting with the members and their staff was the highlight of the conference," said McDaniel. "We conveyed the importance and urgency of making the tax cut on distilled spirits permanent. The reduced tax rate has had a major impact on our distilleries enabling us to buy new equipment, hire more staff, offer an employee health plan and buy more local agriculture. It was impactful to share with each member how this bill will continue to help our small distilleries grow, as well as the devastating impact on our business if it does not pass."

"This is a historic moment for our industry as more than 150 distillers from 33 states descend on Washington to rally further support for this critical, urgent legislation," said Margie A.S. Lehrman, CEO, American Craft Spirits Association. "Without permanent and immediate Federal Excise Tax reform, the stability of this vibrant industry, and the industries that surround us - agriculture, tourism and the broader hospitality industry - are bound to be paralyzed."

"These distillers delivered a unified message to legislative leaders on Capitol Hill at a critical time," said Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, the national trade association representing producers of distilled spirits sold in the United States. "The federal tax cut on spirits is set to expire at the end of the year and the negative impacts of the retaliatory tariffs against U.S. spirits products are mounting."

Distillers who attended the conference also had opportunities to showcase their craft spirits at a "Meet America's Distillers" reception on Capitol Hill for lawmakers and a "Spirits of America" reception journalists at the National Press Club.

About the St. Augustine Distillery:

The St. Augustine Distillery is located in St. Augustine Florida. The Distillery opened in 2014 in the historic FP&L Ice Plant, built as part of St. Augustine's first power and ice complex in 1907. The ice plant is a contribution to the Lincolnville Neighborhood on the National Register of Historic Places. The St. Augustine Distillery uses local Florida ingredients including sugar cane, wheat, corn and citrus to produce whiskey, rum, vodka, gin and Florida's first bourbon.

The distillery was co-founded by Philip McDaniel and Mike Diaz, entrepreneurs with a passion for community and sustainable economic development. They joined the national movement of distilling super premium, small batch spirits by opening the distillery in St. Augustine.

The St. Augustine Distillery offers free tours and tastings. It is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 112 Riberia St., St. Augustine, Fla., 32084. For information call 904-825-4962 or visit http://www.staugustinedistillery.com/.

About American Craft Spirits Association and Distilled Spirits Council:

The American Craft Spirits Association is the only national registered non-profit trade association representing the U.S. craft spirits industry. Its mission is to elevate and advocate for the community of craft spirits producers. For information about ACSA, call 202-669-3661 or: https://americancraftspirits.org/.

The Distilled Spirits Council is the leading voice and advocate for distilled spirits in the United States. Representing the leading producers of distilled spirits, the Council: advocates on legislative, regulatory and public affairs issues impacting the distilled spirits sector at the local, state, federal and international levels; promotes the distilled spirits sector, raising awareness and opening markets in the United States and around the globe; and encourages responsible and moderate consumption of distilled spirits. Information: https://www.distilledspirits.org/.

WEB PHOTO: https://www.send2press.com/wire/images/19-0731-distillers-with-rutherford-696x522.jpg
Photo caption: Pictured left to right: Paul Twyford, Winter Park Distillery, Philip McDaniel, St. Augustine Distillery, Rep. John Rutherford, and Roger Morenc, Marlind & Barrel Distillery.

The St. Augustine Distillery joined two Florida distillers along with more than 150 craft distillers from around the country who gathered in Washington, D.C. from July 22 through July 24 for the distilled spirits industry's 10th Annual Public Policy Conference, co-hosted by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States and the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA).

Related link: http://staugustinedistillery.com/

Energy Jobs Will Be Easier to Find for Virginians After Enactment of HB2008/SB1348

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Energy sector jobs will be easier to find following Governor Northam's approval of HB2008 / SB1348 earlier this year. The legislation creates a 17th Energy Career Cluster in the state's education system, says the Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium. An Energy Career Cluster will introduce students to career opportunities in energy and focus their education on the jobs needed to meet the industry's growing workforce needs.

"All forms of energy, traditional and renewable, rely on many of the same skills," said Matt Kellam, chair of the Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium. "While those skills are currently taught in Virginia's schools in other industry clussters, there is little emphasis on how they apply specifically to supplying energy. With this legislation, we will ensure that students are better aware of the opportunities available in meeting our energy needs."

Under the language of the law, the Virginia Department of Education will align education programs with the energy industry competency and credential models developed by the Center for Energy Workforce Development in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor. This will guarantee that Virginia students' education in an array of fields related to energy will prepare them for energy jobs in the Commonwealth.

"I was proud to serve as the patron for House Bill 2008 during the 2019 session of the General Assembly," said Delegate T. Scott Garrett (R-Lynchburg). "Energy jobs are the backbone of the American economy and we need to make sure all students in the Commonwealth have a pipeline to access this vibrant sector of the 21st century workforce."

Creation of a 17th Energy Career Cluster is supported by a coalition of energy industry companies and business groups including the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Lynchburg Regional Alliance, Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Virginia Nuclear Energy Consortium, Dominion Energy, Washington Gas, Virginia's Electric Cooperatives, and the Virginia Manufacturers' Association.

About the Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium:

Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium (VEWC) was formed in 2007 to engage energy companies and utilities in strategic, unified, and results-oriented efforts to ensure a skilled, qualified, and diverse workforce to meet future industry needs throughout the Commonwealth. VEWC members include representatives from electric, natural gas, renewable energy, and utility companies; contractors; organized labor unions; industry associations; secondary and postsecondary educational institutions; the public workforce system; and local, regional, and state government agencies. Learn more at: http://consortia.getintoenergy.com/virginia/who-we-are/.

Energy sector jobs will be easier to find following Governor Northam's approval of HB2008 / SB1348 earlier this year. The legislation creates a 17th Energy Career Cluster in the state's education system, says the Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium. An Energy Career Cluster will introduce students to career opportunities in energy and focus their education on the jobs needed to meet the industry's growing workforce needs.

The Florida Legislature Takes Ground-Breaking Steps Towards Solving the Opioid Crisis in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- In an effort to combat the opioid epidemic, which just seems to be getting worse, the Florida legislature took proactive steps in fighting this deadly problem during this year's 2019 legislative session, The Florida Society for Doctors of Oriental Medicine announced today.

The House and Senate both signed off on a bill (HB451) requiring the Florida Department of Health (FS456) to require its licensees, namely any doctor prescribing an opioid, to inform the patient of the alternatives that are available. The new requirement specifically names acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage as alternative options to an opioid. These healthcare practices are licensed and regulated by the Florida State Legislature and the Florida Department of Health.

This is a huge step for the general public's education about legitimate alternative and natural therapies that are licensed and regulated in Florida.

This legislation also directs the Department of Health to formulate an informational packet so a person struggling with a painful condition can make an informed decision regarding the treatment options that are available. The hope is that these alternatives will reduce the need for addictive drugs, and provide options to taking a potentially deadly opioid prescription.

In the past, any type of alternative treatment was viewed as risky. Decades later we now know that many of these methods are safe, effective, cost efficient and have no harmful side-effects.

About The Florida Society for Doctors of Oriental Medicine:

As pioneers in the licensed practice of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Florida, the Society was formed with one purpose in mind - protect the integrity of this ancient medical art. Florida's professionals are State licensed and regulated to practice Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine as a form of Primary Health Care according to Florida Law - FS Chapter 457. More information: https://www.fsdom.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsdom/

In an effort to combat the opioid epidemic, which just seems to be getting worse, the Florida legislature took proactive steps in fighting this deadly problem during this year's 2019 legislative session, The Florida Society for Doctors of Oriental Medicine announced today.

Related link: https://www.fsdom.org/

New Bill Targets Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Independent, full-service employee benefits consulting firm Strategic Benefits Advisors (SBA) issued a statement today informing employers that bipartisan legislation currently pending could significantly revise the rules for employer-sponsored retirement plans.

The House Ways and Means Committee advanced the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019 on April 2, the same day the Senate reintroduced its latest version of the Retirement Enhancement Savings Act (RESA) of 2019. The bills provide some administrative relief to employers and incentivize them to offer more savings plan opportunities and retirement income security to workers. A reconciled version of the two bills is expected to become law.

According to SBA Principal Mindy Zatto, the proposed legislation stands to benefit both employers and employees.

The SECURE bill includes provisions for employer-sponsored retirement plans which would:
* Relieve nondiscrimination testing requirements for closed defined benefit (DB) plans
* Delay the required minimum distribution starting age from 701/2 to 72
* Provide more time to retroactively adopt certain retirement plans
* Simplify rules and notice requirements related to qualified nonelective contributions in safe harbor 401(k) plans
* Increase the cap on auto-escalation of contributions for safe harbor 401(k) plans from 10% to 15% of pay
* Allow employers of all sizes to join together and create "open" multiple-employer plans (MEPs) to make defined contribution (DC) plans more affordable
* Encourage lifetime income options in DC plans through new participant disclosures, new provider selection rules and new ways to increase the portability of lifetime income investments
* Offer consolidated Form 5500 for certain DC plans to reduce administrative costs
* Allow long-term, part-time workers to participate in employer 401(k) plans
* Increase penalties for failure to file retirement plan returns (such as Forms 5500), required notifications of changes and required withholding notices
* Prohibit DC plans from extending loans to participants via credit cards
* Reduce payout period for nonspouse beneficiaries of DC plans (and IRAs) to 10 years after the participant's (owner's) death
* Convert custodial accounts from terminated 403(b) plans into IRAs
* Increase or create tax credits for small employers that start new retirement plans or automatically enroll workers into new 401(k) savings plans
* Reduce premiums for cooperative and small-employer charity (CSEC) plans
* Provide funding relief for community newspaper pension plans and clarify church plan requirements

Other provisions of the SECURE Act specifically for individuals are designed to:
* Eliminate the current age 701/2 limit for contributing to an IRA
* Allow graduate students to count stipends and non-tuition fellowship payments as compensation for IRA contribution purposes
* Permit penalty-free withdrawals of up to $5,000 from qualified retirement savings plans to help pay for childbirth or adoption expenses (with repayment permitted)
* Expand allowable expenses for 529 college savings plans to include apprenticeships, homeschooling, private school costs or up to $10,000 of qualified student loan repayments
* Increase penalties for individuals who fail to file tax returns.

"Employers that offer retirement programs should take the opportunity now to evaluate options for their current and future plans under the SECURE Act," said Zatto. "The proposed bill includes features that can be substantially beneficial for both plan sponsors and participants who want to increase retirement income security."

A summary of the SECURE Act's provisions can be found here (PDF): https://waysandmeans.house.gov/sites/democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/files/documents/SECURE%20Act%20section%20by%20section_0.pdf.

A summary of the similar RESA can be found here (PDF): https://www.finance.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/RESA%20Summary%204.1.19-banner-converted.pdf.

To speak with Strategic Benefits Advisors' experienced team of benefits consultants about the potential impact of these bills on your plans, call 770-551-8989.

About Strategic Benefits Advisors:

Strategic Benefits Advisors, Inc. (SBA) is an independent, full-service employee benefits consulting firm focused on creatively and effectively solving complex benefits issues for clients ranging from 500 to over 250,000 employees. Founded in 2002 by veteran consultants Mindy Zatto and Andy Adams, SBA provides practical consulting recommendations and expert implementation of solutions for all types of employee benefits programs, including retirement, health and welfare, financial wellness and employee recognition. With an average of over 20 years in the field, SBA's team of actuaries, consultants and systems specialists is among the most experienced in the industry.

For more information, visit http://www.sba-inc.com/.

Twitter: #StrategicBenefitsAdvisors #EmployeeBenefits #HR1993 #SECUREACT #RetirementPlans

Independent, full-service employee benefits consulting firm Strategic Benefits Advisors (SBA) issued a statement today informing employers that bipartisan legislation currently pending could significantly revise the rules for employer-sponsored retirement plans.

Related link: http://www.sba-inc.com/

SUDC Foundation Applauds Reintroduction of Federal Bill to Address Unexpected Child, Infant Deaths

ROSELAND, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The SUDC Foundation is pleased to support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, legislation reintroduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Doug Jones (D-AL) and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) to combat sudden, unexpected infant and child deaths. The legislation was introduced in honor of Scarlett Pauley, who was lost to SUDC in January 2017 when she was just 16 months old.

Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a category of death in children over the age of one year which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation and autopsy. Most often, SUDC occurs in otherwise healthy children during sleep. Approximately 400 children are lost to SUDC in the United States every year.

"This legislation is named 'Scarlett's Sunshine' after a little girl who was lost to Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood," said Senator Casey. "I wanted to honor Scarlett's memory and make sure that the federal government is taking all possible steps to ensure that no family will have to suffer the death of a child, without knowing why. It's appalling that approximately 400 children ages 1-18 and over 3,600 infants each year are dying from these unexplained causes. I urge my colleagues to join us in this bipartisan, bicameral effort."

"I'm honored to join my colleagues in reintroducing this important bill in memory of Scarlett Lillian Pauley and to help prevent the unexpected deaths of any more beautiful children in our community. No one deserves the heartache of losing a child. Not knowing the cause only compounds this awful pain. This issue hits close to home for me as my own state, Wisconsin, struggles with high infant mortality rates among African Americans. And to be clear, SUID/SIDS/SUDC is not a parenting issue. Parents, regardless of background or economic status should not have to live with this uncertainly and fear of losing their precious children and babies, and we're teaming up to do something about it," Congresswoman Moore said.

"While it is the fifth leading category of death among children ages 1 to 4, SUDC has not been directly addressed in our federal policy in regard to surveillance, research or prevention strategies," said Laura Gould Crandall, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the SUDC Foundation. "We can and we must do better. We applaud Senator Casey's and Congresswoman Moore's leadership on behalf of SUDC families worldwide and look forward to working with them to achieve our mission of a future free of SUDC."

"On January 8th, 2017, our lives were shattered when our beautiful, healthy, thriving daughter, Scarlett Lillian Pauley, went to sleep and never woke up. And we do not know why," said Stephanie Zarecky and Ryan Pauley. "Losing a child is the single greatest pain we could ever imagine and living without answers magnifies the tragedy exponentially. We try every day to spread Scarlett's Sunshine, allowing her memory to shine on and bring light to SUDC, the medical mystery that took her from us. We thank Senator Casey and Congresswoman Moore for their leadership on Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act in honor of Scarlett and all of the other children who are deeply loved and missed."

If passed into law, Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act would supply grants to help states, municipalities and nonprofits improve data collection and death scene investigations related to unexpected infant and child deaths, promote safe sleep practices and ensure death reviews are completed for 100 percent of infant and child fatalities. Currently, there are no nationwide standards for investigating and collecting data following an infant or child death. This makes it often impossible to determine the causes of these deaths, and what strategies our country can implement to prevent these tragedies.

This bill has been cosponsored by Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Susan K. DelBene (D-WA), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Peter King (R-NY), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Ro Khanna (D-CA), and Matt Cartwright (D-PA) in the House of Representatives. It has also been endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, March of Dimes, Children's Hospital Association, Cribs for Kids, First Candle, KID: Fighting for Product Safety and the Aaron Matthew SIDS Research Guild of Seattle Children's Hospital.

To learn more and support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, please visit: https://sudc.org/advocacy/scarletts-sunshine-act

About the SUDC Foundation:

The SUDC Foundation is the only organization worldwide whose purpose is to promote awareness, advocate for research and support those affected by SUDC. The SUDC Foundation provides all services at no cost to families. Learn more: https://sudc.org.

The SUDC Foundation is pleased to support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, legislation reintroduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Doug Jones (D-AL) and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) to combat sudden, unexpected infant and child deaths.

Related link: https://sudc.org/

SB 276: California doesn’t trust its own Medical Doctors

CORTE MADERA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dr. Don Harte, noted chiropractic activist, former Libertarian State Senate candidate, issues a dire warning against SB 276, which will eliminate the medical exemption for vaccination. "This is political-medical terrorism of parents and children."

"California, already, has the dubious distinction of being the second state to eliminate the religious exemption for vaccination (after Mississippi), with the infamous SB 277, of 2015," according to Dr. Harte. "Now, California seeks to throttle the judgement of individual medical doctors for individual patients. You thought that they would stop at dismissing the judgement of parents for their own children?"

Dr. Harte goes on... "The bill is proposed by State Sen. Dr. Richard Pan, vaccine extremist. Sen. Pan has already, successfully, interfered with parental rights and informed consent by his previously passed bills, AB2109 and SB 277. These bills have essentially destroyed any rights of parents to choose not to vaccinate, or fully vaccinate, their children. But he wants more. Some may think that this is a furtherance of public health. I am sure that Dr. Pan knows that SB 276 is an extension of state power, essentially Big Brother in a White Coat."

"A Kaiser publication reported that, according to Director Karen Smith, the California Department of Public Health is conducting a 'review of schools' where the number of vaccine exemptions appears 'biologically unlikely,'" Dr. Harte notes. "How Orwellian!" That publication reports that "questionable exemptions will be reported to the Medical Board."

Dr. Harte says: "The very willing, pharmaceutical advertising-laden news media are happy to report instances of alleged abuse of the medical exemption, creating their own fake news. Medical doctors who are willing to write these exemptions are portrayed as foolish, at best, and criminal, at worst."

He goes on: "There have already been certain doctors who have been attacked and persecuted by the press and the medical board. An example is a headline of the 'Medical Press': 'In California, some doctors sell 'medical exemptions' for kids' vaccinations,' as if the vaccine-shooting docs work for free." He continues, "I have seen this very type of "money-hungry' libel many times, against chiropractors. Considering that Medicine sucks up one-fifth of the American economy, and the very tiny minority of pediatricians who stand up to do the right thing, to make this argument, well, it's a lot of nerve and not so much brain."

According to CBS Channel 13 in Sacramento, Dr. Pan have the nerve to say "There's a very small number of physicians who have betrayed their professional oath. I think they're monetizing their license." Dr. Harte says that it is just the opposite: "It is the pediatricians who push vaccines who are betraying their professional oath, whether those vaccines are 'accepted' by the Establishment, or not. There is no question that each vaccine contains a variety of neuro- and immunotoxins, and that vaccination, as a process, subverts normal immune processes." Dr. Harte declares, "I question the ethics and the competency of the pediatricians who, regularly, perform serial vaccination, causing untold harm. Have they forgotten that part of the Hippocratic Oath, 'First, do no harm?'"

Dr. Harte explains, "A non-fake news/real science headline would be 'In California, pediatricians make huge profits selling vaccines and the office visits required, plus even bigger profits off of all the serious illnesses that result from vaccinations. Now they seek to attack their colleagues who choose to do the right thing.'"

"Yes, there should be medical exemptions for vaccination," Dr. Harte declares. "If pediatricians are going to go with science, and truly be for the children whom they are supposed to serve, 100% of children should be exempted. Vaccines are a clear and present danger to the health of children. The State of California and any other jurisdiction or agency who mandates compulsory vaccination is a clear and present danger to liberty."

About Dr. Don Harte:
Dr. Don Harte, former medical student, is a principled, traditional chiropractor serving Marin and the Greater Bay Area since 1981. He is an activist in the struggle for free speech for chiropractors. Dr. Harte was named 2006 "Chiropractor of the Year" by the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA). He has served on the Boards of the WCA and the Council on Chiropractic Practice. His articles have been published in OMNI magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Marin Independent Journal, North Bay Biz, Chiropractic Journal and Journal of the California Chiropractic Association. Learn more at: https://www.chirodrharte.com/.

Dr. Don Harte, noted chiropractic activist, former Libertarian State Senate candidate, issues a dire warning against SB 276, which will eliminate the medical exemption for vaccination. "This is political-medical terrorism of parents and children."

Related link: https://www.chirodrharte.com/

Keep Our Seniors Safe Act Passes Senate Committee – Portantino’s SB 172

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces its collaboration and partnership with California State Senator Anthony Portantino (D, SD 25) in the drafting of Senate Bill 172 Firearms, enhancing safe storage protections for the two most vulnerable populations in our society: the elderly and children.

Testimony on the bill was received by the Senate Committee on Public Safety during a hearing on 2 April. The bill moved out of committee with a 6-0 vote (Morrell abstaining); it now moves to Senate Appropriations before being sent to the Assembly.

CARR partnered with Senator Portantino's office to draft the bill's provisions requiring secure firearm storage in assisted living facilities - the Keep Our Seniors Safe Act. An estimated 70 percent of assisted living residents are diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, yet California law neither defines nor mandates safe storage of firearms, ammunition or other dangerous weapons in assisted living facilities. The state's regulatory agency, Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division, also does not track the number of facilities allowing firearms. If enacted, this legislation would close these statutory gaps.

SB 172 also expands California's existing Child Access Prevention (CAP) laws creates new crimes for failures to properly secure firearms. CAP laws have been shown to be effective at reducing suicides and unintentional firearm deaths and injuries of children, citing a study of twelve states' where unintentional firearms deaths fell by 23 percent.

About CARR:
Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is a San Diego-based 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization promoting transparency and accountability for consumers using assisted living services, and specializing in public document research on assisted living facilities, and the state's oversight of the industry. Learn more: https://rcfereform.org/

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces its collaboration and partnership with California State Senator Anthony Portantino (D, SD 25) in the drafting of Senate Bill 172 Firearms, enhancing safe storage protections for the two most vulnerable populations in our society: the elderly and children.

Related link: https://rcfereform.org/

SUDC Foundation Applauds Introduction of Federal Bill to Address Unexpected Child, Infant Deaths

CEDAR GROVE, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The SUDC Foundation is pleased to support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) to combat Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). The legislation was introduced in honor of Scarlett Pauley, who was lost to SUDC in January 2017 when she was just 16 months old.

Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a category of death in children over the age of one year which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation and autopsy. Most often, SUDC occurs in otherwise healthy children during sleep. At least 400 children are lost to SUDC in the United States every year.

"This legislation is named 'Scarlett's Sunshine' after a little girl who was lost to Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood," said Senator Casey. "I wanted to honor Scarlett's memory and make sure that the federal government is taking all possible steps to ensure that no family will have to suffer the death of a child, without knowing why. It's appalling that over 400 children ages 1-4 and over 3,600 infants each year are dying from these unexplained causes. I urge my colleagues to join us in this bipartisan, bicameral effort."

"Wisconsin has the highest rate of Black infant mortality in the nation. Our babies die at rates comparable to war-torn countries like Syria," said Representative Moore. "This doesn't have anything to do with good or bad parenting. But because there are no nationwide standards for investigations and data collection, parents are often left wondering what went wrong and what they could have done to prevent their baby from dying. No mother, no matter her background, should have to with live with this uncertainty, thinking it was their fault. That's why this bipartisan and bicameral bill to fund critical data collection is a game changer. We need to know the root of the problem to solve it."

"While it is the fifth leading category of death among children ages 1 to 4, SUDC has not been directly addressed in our federal policy in regards to surveillance, research or prevention strategies," said Laura Gould Crandall, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the SUDC Foundation. "We can and we must do better. We applaud Senator Casey's and Congresswoman Moore's leadership on behalf of SUDC families worldwide and look forward to working with them to achieve our mission of a future free of SUDC."

"On January 8th, 2017, our lives were shattered when our beautiful, healthy, thriving daughter, Scarlett Lillian Pauley, went to sleep and never woke up. And we do not know why," said Stephanie Zarecky and Ryan Pauley. "Losing a child is the single greatest pain we could ever imagine and living without answers magnifies the tragedy exponentially. We try every day to spread Scarlett's Sunshine, allowing her memory to shine on and bring light to SUDC, the medical mystery that took her from us. We thank Senator Casey and Congresswoman Moore for their leadership on Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act in honor of Scarlett and all of the other children who are deeply loved and missed."

If passed into law, Scarlett's Sunshine Act it will authorize over $49 million in new federal funding to strengthen efforts to better track, understand and prevent SUDC and SUID. Specifically, it would supply grants to help states and municipalities to improve data collection and death scene investigations related to unexpected infant and child deaths and ensure death reviews are completed for 100 percent of infant and child fatalities. Currently, there are no nationwide standards for investigating and collecting data following an infant or child death. This makes it nearly impossible to determine the causes of these deaths and what strategies our country can implement to prevent these tragedies.

This bill has also been endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Association, Cribs for Kids, First Candle, March of Dimes, Kids in Danger, Within Our Reach and the Aaron Matthew SIDS Guild of Seattle Children's Hospital.

To learn more and support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, please visit: https://sudc.org/advocacy/scarletts-sunshine-act

About the SUDC Foundation:
The SUDC Foundation is the only organization worldwide whose purpose is to promote awareness, advocate for research and support those affected by SUDC. The SUDC Foundation provides all services at no cost to families. Learn more: https://sudc.org.

The SUDC Foundation is pleased to support Scarlett's Sunshine on Sudden Unexpected Death Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Tom Cole (OK-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) to combat Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).

Related link: https://sudc.org/