"The more voices we have, the louder our message, and the more likely it will be heard."
- A participant in the MS Public Policy Conference
Many public policies and programs greatly influence the health, independence, and well being of people affected by MS. The National MS Society and MS advocates across the country give voice to people with MS.
We relentlessly advocate and engage activists on every level, from local community issues to Federal Government concerns. Learn more about each of these arenas below:
Local
Many of the local issues that we address come directly from individuals who contact the chapter about a problem affecting people with MS in their community. Some of these issues include access to public buildings, public transportation, and handicapped parking.
State
Each year, the chapter works with the other Virginia chapters to identify important MS issues in each state. Through phone calls, e-mails, and face-to-face visits during state MS Lobby Days, MS activists share their personal stories and ask their state legislators for support. Examples of these issues include caregiver support; health insurance and prescription drug coverage; and affordable, accessible housing.
Federal
The Society’s Public Policy Office guides our federal advocacy efforts and works with MS activists to raise awareness nationwide. Annually, hundreds of MS activists unite in Washington, D.C. to visit their legislators on Capitol Hill and ask for their support on issues such as federal funding for MS research.