October 2011
| MDA and ASDA Chapters Unite to Advocate for the Profession during 2011 Lobby Day |
The importance of protecting dentistry’s scope of practice and increasing funding for programs that provide access to dental treatment for Michigan’s underserved populations were the messages that nearly 20 dental students representing both the University of Michigan and University of Detroit Mercy schools of dentistry delivered to a host of lawmakers during the 2011 MDA/ASDA Lobby Day on September 28.“Lobby Day provided students with the opportunity to advocate for their profession and patients, not to mention the chance to interact directly with the elected officials that are responsible for guiding Michigan’s future,” said Bill Sullivan, MDA director of legislative and insurance affairs. “This was a truly unique opportunity that provided a first-hand look at the legislative process, including the inner workings of our state’s Capitol. They represented the MDA and their universities with pride and class.”The first-of-its-kind event connected tomorrow’s practitioners to today’s lawmakers during a day filled with face-to-face meeting, legislative briefings and rubbing elbows with the Capitol’s elite. Students had the opportunity to meet privately with Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe), and Speaker of the House Jase Bolger (R-Marshall). In addition, they lobbied directly to nearly 10 lawmakers in the halls outside of the Senate and House chambers—just like real lobbyists! Also, the Senate and House applauded the students during their sessions, giving them the opportunity to stand and be recognized for their efforts and contributions to Michigan.The day was capped off with a tour of the Capitol, plenty of photo opportunities, and a debriefing of the day’s events.
If you’re interested in getting involved with ASDA’s or the MDA’s legislative activities, contact an ASDA representative. Decisions are going to be made with or without us at the table, and we want our voice to be heard. So, get involved today! |
Information published in this newsletter is credited to the MDA
