Congress left Washington for its annual August Recess, leaving a host of legislation still pending and Election Day right around the corner. Late last week, the Senate voted on -- but was unable to pass -- a package of bills that included the Advancing America's Priorities Act and the Vision Care for Kids Act. Progress has also stalled on both the House and Senate Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bills. These bills include funding for the CDC's Vision Screening and Education program, as well as other critical vision related programs. It is unclear whether the Senate will take a second vote on the Vision Care for Kids Act, or whether there will be any further movement on the appropriations bills when Congress returns in September.
We'd like to thank all of you who contacted your Senators on the Vision Care for Kids Act, and remind you that now is the time to keep the pressure on! Most Senators and Members of Congress are back in their districts over the August break, so it's a good time to attend a town hall meeting, schedule an office visit, or write a letter.
Please visit our Advocacy section to find out more, or contact Jennifer Pennock, director of government affairs, directly at 312-363-6037.
Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness America is the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on promoting a continuum of vision care, Prevent Blindness America touches the lives of millions of people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision screening and training, community and patient service programs and research. These services are made possible through the generous support of the American public. Together with a network of affiliates, divisions and chapters, it's committed to eliminating preventable blindness in America. For more information, or to make a contribution to the sight-saving fund, call 1-800-331-2020.
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