At 16, I finally entered the “real working world” with a part-time job at McDonald’s making minimum wage. In addition to earning money for a school trip to Germany, I also started contributing to the Social Security System. Every year, close to my birthday, I am reminded of those earnings and my lifelong work history when I receive my statement from Social Security. Like most of us, I have a long relationship with Social Security.

August 14 marks the 75^th anniversary of Social Security. An old-age insurance program was on the list of things social worker Frances Perkins asked President Roosevelt to support before she would agree to be the Secretary of Labor. In a 1962 presentation, Ms. Perkins details the political history and enactment of this program. She says,

“I suppose the roots–the idea that we ought to have a systematic method of taking care of the material needs of the aged–really springs from … the efforts and the struggles of charity workers and social workers to handle the problems of people who were growing old and had no adequate means of support.”

In honor of the anniversary, The Frances Perkins’ Center has developed the “Social Security Stories Project” to document how social security has made a difference in peoples’ lives. They are accepting written submissions of 400 words or less, or about three minutes of video.

There are certainly important discussions and questions about the future of Social Security that need to be addressed; however, I think as social workers we can hope like Frances Perkins did in 1962 that, “It is safe forever, and for the everlasting benefit of the people of the United States.”

Political Climate

We’re approaching a crucial time in any election cycle: the deadline for federal candidates to report their second quarter fundraising figures.  By July 15, everyone running for Congress must tell the Federal Elections Commission how much they’ve raised through June 30.

This is important for a few reasons.  For one, we’ll know how much money individuals have raised on their own, but also in the context of their opponent’s cash on hand figures.  A figure of $700,000 might seem like a lot; it matters whether one’s opponent has $200,000 or $2,000,000 at the same point in time.  Second quarter numbers tend to kick-start the season in which more polling is released.  Whether a candidate has outraised their opponent or not, they all want to prove that either their financial edge is showing in the polls as well, or that in spite of mediocre fundraising they’re still doing well in the eyes of voters.  In addition, more money means more ads on television, radio, and the internet.  This is how issues emerge and races begin to take shape, rather than earlier timeframes when voters are just getting to know candidates. Once the second quarter numbers are available, our ability to analyze the general political landscape as well as specific races will markedly improve.

Obama Appoints Dr. Donald Berwick as CMS Administrator

On Wednesday, July 7, 2010, President Obama bypassed the Senate and appointed Dr. Donald Berwick Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The President’s action, known as a recess appointment, allowed Berwick to immediately lead CMS and avoids what was expected to become a partisan fight in the Senate over the nominee. NASW had joined with many other national health organizations in endorsing Dr. Berwick’s strong qualifications for the position and in urging the Senate to quickly approve his nomination.

The White House justified the action because of clear signs that Republican senators intended to stall the confirmation process. The White House also argued that Berwick’s rapid installation is necessary to keep on track with implementing the new health reform law. The recess appointment enables Berwick, a well regarded international health care quality expert, to serve through December 2011 without Senate confirmation. He will also be eligible for re-nomination to the position at the end of next year.

In other recent reform news, the Kaiser Family Foundation announced that public support for the new law has begun to climb from 41 percent to 48 percent in the past month, see report here.

New Online Health Care Tool Now Available to Consumers

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a new online tool to help consumers take control of their health care by connecting them to information and resources that will help them access quality, affordable health care coverage. Known as HealthCare.gov, the web site provides consumers with information on both public and private health coverage options tailored to their needs in a single, easy-to-use tool. The site has a central database of health coverage options, combining information about programs ranging from Medicare to the new Pre-Existing Conditions Insurance Plan, including information from more than 1,000 private insurance plans.

HealthCare.gov will expand as components of the new law become effective. In October 2010, price estimates for health insurance plans will be available online and information on preventing disease and illness and improving the quality of health care. Eventually the site will include pricing and plan performance information so that consumers can see, understand and make meaningful choices about their health coverage.

NASW Joins Groups on GINA Letter to EEOC

On June 29, NASW joined several health organizations on a letter to Jacqueline A. Berrien, Chair, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), urging the EEOC to remain consistent with Title I regulations regarding genetic information and use the same approach other cabinet departments did when they issued their interim final rule about GINA and employment title.

The letter asks the EEOC to ensure that in “addressing the collection of genetic information through ‘health risk assessment’-style questionnaires, the EEOC takes the same approach as the Depts. of Health and Human Services, Labor and Treasury when they issued their interim final rule – namely that answering questions on family history or genetics is entirely optional.

In 2008, the Genetics Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was signed into law.  One of GINA’s most important tenets is that individuals have the right to keep their genetic information private without penalty. The provision of genetic information must be truly voluntary.  The letter states, “if the EEOC regulations were to allow employers to penalize employees who do not divulge genetic information, it would greatly undermine the protections Congress deliberately included in GINA and create an untenable inconsistency with the regulations implementing Title I.

NASW Supports the Seniors’ Bill of Rights

Recently, NASW sent a letter to fellow social worker, Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) thanking her for introducing a resolution supporting the Seniors’ Bill of Rights. The Seniors’ Bill of Rights, S. Res. 553, is an important resolution that urges Congress to uphold the dignity and independence of older Americans by supporting efforts that guarantee financial security; quality and affordable health and long-term care; protection from abuse, scams, and exploitation; a strong economy now and for future generations; and safe and livable communities with adequate housing and transportation options. As stated in the letter, “NASW strongly supports these rights”.  S. Res. 553 is the companion resolution to H. Res. 1342 introduced by Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL).

Advocacy Blog Roundup

NASW supports Recommendations on Achieving the

Millennium Development Goals

Care of Veterans Being Addressed

Alert Roundup

Support Legislation to Ban Corporal Punishment in Schools

Ask President Obama to Push Ratification of CEDAW

Advocacy Listserv Activity

In the month of June, 255 activists sent 378 advocacy messages to Congress through Capwiz. The most active alerts were about the Tax Extenders Bill and the Social Work Reinvestment Act.  Thanks to all of you who took the time to take action!  To see all alerts, go here.

Political Climate

Although it may feel like November’s election is off in the distance, there are actually very few legislative days left for Members of Congress.  For one thing, the House and Senate will go into recess around holidays, such as the Fourth of July.  Secondly, Congress will leave for good well in advance of the election in order to focus on campaigning back home.  This means that most (but not all) legislative business is either taken care of or will simply have to wait until after November 2.

At present, most political analysts are forecasting extremely close margins in both the House and Senate.  The Democrats will either barely hang on to majorities in one or both houses, or the Republicans will narrowly take over one or both chambers, with the House being their likeliest chance at a small majority.  As a result, both parties are shifting their focus slightly away from policy and legislation and toward voters and electoral strategies.

DC Voting Rights Act and Party Politics

NASW, in collaboration with other social justice advocates, continues to seek enactment of the D.C. Voting Rights Act.  However, the seven-year effort to secure a vote in the House of Representatives has stalled due to several events, most notably a gun amendment as well as mid-term election year politics.  Coalition partners, along with NASW, are considering viable alternatives to counteract its opponents.

Representative Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) has strongly indicated to NASW and the civil rights community that without the gun language, the D.C. Voting Rights Act would be difficult to move prior to the mid-term elections.  The optimism of the previous 18 months is now restricted by political reality and compromise politics.  Despite such, NASW will persist in its pursuit of fairness and equality for the disenfranchised residents of the District of Columbia.

President Obama Reveals the Patient’s Bill of Rights

On June 22, President Obama unveiled new regulations, called the Patient’s Bill of Rights, to help build support and further educate the American people about the new health care law, the Affordable Health care Act.  The Affordable Health Care Act was signed into law on March 23, 2010.

The interim final regulations issued by the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury would apply to most health plans renewing on or after Sept. 23.  The new rules apply to most health plans, except in cases where they are “grandfathered” under the law.

The five rules include the following:

• Guaranteed coverage for children with pre-existing health problems.
• A ban on lifetime coverage limits.
• Phasing out annual coverage limits.
• Prohibiting insurers from canceling the policies of people who get sick.
• Guaranteed choice of primary care doctors and pediatricians from a plan’s network.

For more information, click on the Patient’s Bill of Rights fact sheet.

Advocacy Blog Roundup

Secretary Sebelius Talks about Women’s Health

DOL Clarifies Meaning of “in loco parentis” in the FMLA

Congressional Hearing on Cyber bullying

Learn more about the Federal strategy to address homelessness

Congressional Hearing on Corporal Punishment in Schools

As Congress Struggles, CMS Resumes Processing Medicare Claims

Support Essential Extenders Legislation, H.R. 4213

Alert and Update Roundup

Congress Restores Medicare Rates, CMS Resumes Processing Claims

As Congress Struggles, CMS Resumes Processing Medicare Claims

Ask Congress to Stop Child Abuse Deaths

On Thursday, June 24^th, the House Committee on Education and Labor, Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities, chaired by Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), held a hearing on cyber bullying.  The witness panel included popular television psychologist, Dr. Phil Mcgraw, and 14-year-old Girl Scout, Dominique Napolitano. Ms. Napolitano offered personal insight by describing a cyber bullying incident involving a school friend, and indicated that “cyber bullying poses serious consequences to the health and safety of all children.” As the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) approaches, the panel urged Congress to add language to this act regarding the prevention of cyber bullying.

In 2009, 3.2 million American children perpetrated or were victimized by cyber bullying.   However, many parents remain unaware of the magnitude of problem.

Preventative measures include sites such as www.wiredsafety.com, which offer tools for cyber bullying prevention, as well as various media outreach campaigns. Ms. Napolitano and Dr. McGraw reinforced the importance of maintaining a dialogue with children regarding safe internet usage. Many schools have also implemented effective prevention programs that encourage children to anonymously report instances of cyber bullying. Congresswoman McCarthy stated that the committee would consider adding language to the ESEA regarding cyber bullying prevention programs.

For more information on the hearing: http://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/2010/06/ensuring-student-cyber-safety.shtml

For more information on cyber bullying: http://www.helpstartshere.org/kids-and-families/schools-andcommunities/cyberbullying.html

For more information on ESEA: http://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/education/esea/

Political Climate

The primary season began in earnest on Tuesday, May 18 and we learned several important lessons that night.  For one, voter turnout was not particularly high, defying the expectations of many observers who believed voter anger would voice itself loudly at the first opportunity.  Second, the night clearly went better for Democrats than it did for Republicans.  The hard fought special election in PA-12 was decisively won by Democrat Mark Critz over Republican Tim Burns.  Rep. Joe Sestak, who polling has shown to be the stronger candidate in a November general election matchup, toppled longtime Sen. Arlen Specter.  In Kentucky, we saw progressive state Attorney General Jack Conway advance to take on staunch conservative Rand Paul in the race to succeed retiring Sen. Jim Bunning (R).  Moderate Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D) will have to confront progressive challenger Lt. Gov. Bill Halter in a runoff, since Lincoln was unable to cross the 50% threshold necessary to win the primary outright.

Less than 24 hours after the conclusion of these primaries, we saw general election foes confronting one another with negative attacks.  Republicans are trying to contain any impression that Tuesday’s results don’t bode well for their long term prospects this year, while Democrats are basing their narrative on the idea that voters evidently still support them.

While we certainly can’t speculate on what this all means for the remaining 5+ months of this year’s election cycle, we can say one thing for sure: this year’s midterm elections will continue to be spirited, intense, and hard fought, right through to November 2.

President Obama Unveils the 2010 National Drug Control Strategy

On May 11, President Obama unveiled the 2010 National Drug Control Strategy.  The strategy was developed by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) with input from Federal, State and local partners.  Highlights of the strategy include:

• Strengthen efforts to prevent drug use in communities including a focus on inhalants, pain killers, “study drugs” and steroids and curtailing drugged driving.
• Seek early intervention opportunities in health care especially by increasing the knowledge of healthcare providers in screening and brief intervention techniques.
• Integrate treatment for substance use disorders into health care, and expand support for recovery.
• Break the cycle of drug use, crime, delinquency and incarceration, including supporting alternatives to incarceration such as drug- and problem-solving courts.
• Disrupt Domestic Drug Trafficking and production with attention to domestic methamphetamine production and criminal distribution of prescription medications for nonmedicinal purposes
• Strengthen international partnerships.
• Improve information systems for analysis, assessment and local management.

For more information on the Strategy, go to http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/strategy/

DC Voting Rights Act Stalled

The D.C. Voting Rights Act attempts to enfranchise over 550,000 District of Columbia residents through the addition of one House seat for our Nation’s Capitol and another for the Republican-leaning state of Utah, which is the next state scheduled to pick up a seat according to the census count.  However, despite the efforts of NASW as well as its coalition partners, H.R.175 was stalled due to significant alterations to the controversial gun amendment orchestrated by Reps. Childers (D-Miss.) and Souder (R-Ind.).  NASW will continue to pursue enactment of the D.C. Voting Rights Act since social workers seek equality for all.

Congress Struggles over Medicare Rate Legislation

This legislation is active and we will post a blog about any developments later today, May 28, 2010. (more…)

NASW has launched a new webpage on school social work advocacy that includes the Association’s education policy statements, timely advocacy alerts and updates, and our public comments and testimony. There, you can read about how Congress has, for many years, designated the first week of social work month as School Social Work Week.

NASW is partnering with the College for Access and Success and the U.S. PIRG to urge Congress to ensure that the Restoring American Financial Stability Act (S. 3217) gives the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) full authority over all private student loans. The bill has been criticized for not providing CFPB enough teeth to enforce authority over existing private student lenders, some who have lent to for-profit colleges that are attended disproportionately by low-income and minority students. To view the coalition’s letter to the Senate click here.

Private student loans are considered to be one of the riskiest ways to pay for college, yet a significant number of students have private student loans as well as, or instead of, safer federal student loans.Private student loans typically have uncapped, variable rates that lack the fixed rates, consumer protections and flexible repayment options of federal student loans and are extremely difficult to discharge in bankruptcy.

NASW continues to advocate for public policies that make higher education more affordable for social worker students and professionals who are repaying their student debt obligations. You can view additional resources about federal and state loan forgiveness programs by going to www.socialworkers.org/loanforgivenss and for information about our school social work advocacy click here.

Political Climate

With the health care debate now behind us, Capitol Hill and the Obama Administration have moved on to other things.  Issues of great significance include a pending Supreme Court nomination, fluctuating news on employment, and several Congressional primary races that will give shape to the November general election.  At this point in the year, many Members of Congress are focused on both a wide range of policy issues as well as their reelection prospects.

While Democrats are expected to suffer losses this year, experts widely disagree on the number (House seat estimates have ranged from 25 all the way to 60).  That said, it’s important to remember one thing about any election in which the minority party is trying to overwhelm the majority party: only in the summer and fall are the challengers truly tested, in both fundraising and campaigning.  Those Republican candidates trying to defeat entrenched Democrats will have to maintain a significant fundraising pace and avoid gaffes on the campaign trail.  Any error in either category could cost the GOP potential seats.

These remarks are not meant to be partisan in nature because the Democrats were in a similar position in 2006 as well as 2008.  In each of those years some Democratic challengers were unable to defeat Republican incumbents due to either lackluster fundraising, a disappointing campaign, or both.  At the same time, the Democrats won a significant number of seats in the House and the Senate, eventually taking over the majority.  The GOP is likely to repeat that pattern this year, enjoying a sizeable number of wins, but not necessarily as many as their most optimistic supporters would like.

Remembering Dr. Dorothy I. Height

NASW and the social work community were devastated by the loss of Dr. Dorothy I. Height on April 20, 2010. One of the world’s most important social workers, Dr. Height was a civil rights legend who spent a lifetime advocating for the rights of women and people of color. Dr. Height worked on five continents for four major national organizations during her lifetime. Dr. Height was the only female team member in the United Civil Rights Leadership which included Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,  Whitney Young, A. Philip Randolph, James Farmer, Roy Wilkins and John Lewis. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1997, the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004, and was inducted into the Democracy Hall of Fame International. NASW was honored to award Dr. Height with the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award.

The most comprehensive piece of federal legislation ever introduced to address social work workforce challenges was named after Dr. Height and fellow social worker Whitney Young. NASW Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth Clark penned a tribute to Dr. Height and discussed her support of the legislation bearing her name. Honor the legacy of Dr. Height today by contacting your Representative and Senators in support of this critical legislation.

NASW Joins Young Invincibles In Support of Early Dependent Coverage

NASW joined 65 state and national groups on a letter asking insurance companies to start dependent coverage early.  The letter was generated by Young Invincibles, a national youth advocacy group focused on health reform.  (more…)

The House Education and Labor Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education held a hearing on March 18, 2010 titled “Elementary and Secondary Education Act Reauthorization: Addressing the Needs of Diverse Students” to examine how schools can appropriately educate low-income, minority, English Language Learners, disabled, Native American, and homeless students within the context of reauthorizing  the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), currently known as the No Child Left Behind Act.

This goal was expressed by Subcommittee Chairman Representative Dale Kildee (D-MI) in his opening statement: “While the No Child Left Behind Act shed light on the inequalities in our education system, it unfortunately did not do enough to close the achievement gap for diverse students…This must be a top priority for future steps in education reform.”

To this end, the Subcommittee considered recommendations from a panel of educators, advocates, and a researcher working to close the achievement gap for diverse students. They included Dr. Daniel Curry, Superintendent for the Lake Forest School District in Felton, Delaware, Dr. Jack Dale, Superintendent for Fairfax County Public Schools in Falls Church, Virginia, Arelis Diaz, Assistant Superintendent for Godwin Heights Public Schools in Wyoming, Michigan, Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College (UTTC), Jacqui Farmer Kearns, Principal Investigator for the National Alternate Assessment Center, and Michael Wotorson, Executive Director of Campaign for High School Equity.

To read the transcript go tohttp://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/ecese/

Go here for more information on NASW’s advocacy efforts. 
Join the Advocacy Listserv to receive regular updates
NASW Standards for Social Work in Schools 
NASW Specialty Practice Section for School Social Work 
NASW School Social Specialist Credential

Not long after Barack Obama was elected President, he worked closely with Eric Shinseki, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), on eliminating homelessness among people who are veterans.  The issue became so important that Sec. Shinseki publicly stated that he wanted to completely end veteran homelessness by 2015.

The VA is taking some immediate steps to aid homeless veterans.  Recently, a webpage was created  on the VA site.  If you know or work with a veteran who is homeless, please pass this information along to them.