On April 15th your Society was well represented in Sacramento by 6 of your colleagues.  I’d like to thank those that joined me in this important legislative day: Gene Chang; Warren Barr; Gary Asano; Gene Calkins; and Bogard Chang.  We met up with over a hundred OD’s from California for a well planned day of speakers from COA staff, lobbyists, and a few panel discussions.  Of course the day would not have been complete without an inspiration talk by our own Assemblyman Ed Hernandez, O.D.

 After lunch we walked to the Capital where we had meetings scheduled with our local legislators.  We met with Assembyman Betty Karnette, and staff members from Assembly members Ted Lieu, and Dean Grafilo, and Senator Alan Lowenthal’s offices.  At these meetings we discussed what we do in our profession and how Bill 1406 would help us provide better service for our patients.  We also discussed the opposition and the arguments they will most likely take to try to scare the legislation into not passing the bill.

 Our bill, Senate Bill 1406, has passed the Senate Business, Professions & Economic Development Committee by a vote of 7-0. In order to keep the bill alive and moving to the Senate Appropriations Committee, it had to be amended to make it a “substantive spot” bill adding legislative intent language as we and our opponents continue good-faith negotiations.  (This is essentially what occurred with SB 929 while negotiations took place eight years ago.)

 It was a long, but rewarding day.  I urge each of you to take the time to attend a key person day in the future. It is a day well spent for the benefit of your profession.