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The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) Advocacy Goals for the 110th Congress
The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) has a number of ambitious goals concerning legislative initiatives, administration activities, and current practices in the medical fields relevant to FASD. It is our sincere hope that by focusing on the following activities, NOFAS is serving not only its own mission, but the mission of all those who care about FASD prevention and support.
NOFAS LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
CO-SPONSOR UPCOMING FASD LEGISLATION
- The comprehensive bill will include provisions on FASD research, education and treatment.
- Being authored by Senator Lisa Murkowski and Senator Tim Johnson in the U.S. Senate and Representative Frank Pallone and Representative Jim Ramstad in the U.S. House.
- Upon re-introduction of the FASD bill, conduct a comprehensive FASD briefing for members and staff of the Senate and House of Representatives.
INCREASE MEMBERSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FASD CAUCUS
- The Congressional Caucus on FASD was founded (in June 2004), and is cosponsored by Jim Ramstad (R-MN) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ).
- There are currently 36 members, including 23 Democrats and 13 Republicans.
- The purpose of the caucus is to increase awareness of FASD among policymakers
- The caucus circulates “Dear Colleague” letters, co-sponsors FASD and other related legislation, holds Congressional briefings, and other awareness raising activities.
REAUTHORIZE THE NATIONAL TASK FORCE ON FAS/FAE
- The National Task Force on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effect is a congressionally mandated task force charged with:
- Advising all governmental agencies, academic bodies, and community groups that conduct or support fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effect research, programs, and surveillance, and
- Meeting the general needs of populations actually or potentially impacted by fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effect.
- The task force expired on May 17, 2006. It is extremely important for the FASD field to ensure the continuance of this task force.
FASD REPORT LANGUAGE IN DEPARTMENTS OF EDUCATION AND JUSTICE BILLS AND OTHER LEGISLATION
- Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Service – Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is the leading known preventable cause of mental retardation, learning and behavioral disabilities and attention disorders. Collect, collate, and disseminate evidence-based practices that are effective in the education and support of children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorders in both special and traditional educational settings. Add a link to IDEA that stresses that children with FASD have the right to access to the general curriculum and least restrictive environment.
- Department of Justice – Enhance knowledge and understanding of the consequences and behavioral problems associated with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders among juvenile and criminal justice system personnel including at the levels of law enforcement, courts and corrections.
INCREASE FUNDING TO NOFAS & AGENCIES THAT WORK ON FASD ISSUES
- Increase the level of funding received from the federal agencies, for example:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Build coalitions with other advocacy groups to help achieve our mission and allow our voice become stronger
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