As the Voice of Cancer Survivorship in the New England region, NECCS monitors proposed cancer-related legislative and public policy changes and initiatives, promoting and advocating for those that would benefit cancer survivors.
Selected Advocacy Partnerships:
Massachusetts House Bill 2160: NECCS supports this bill as it would allow for the use and regulation of marijuana by patients approved by physicians and certified by the department of public health. On March 16, 2010 the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Public Health sent this bill concerning medical marijuana legislation 'to study'. An upcoming event concerning this bill and support of it will be held on July 7, 2010 starting at 6pm at the Aids Action Committee Office located at 75 Armory Street, Jamaica Plain, MA. This event is sponsored by the the Massachusetts Patient Advocacy Alliance. For more information about this event visit masscompassion.org.
Massachusetts House Bill 4320: NECCS supports this legislation as it would provide consumers with access to cost saving discount programs when purchasing perscription medications. On May 21, 2010 this bill was voted on and passed in the House of Representatives. This bill now awaits a review and vote in the Senate. For more information about this legislation visit MassRXHelp.org.
Massachusetts House Bill 944: NECCS supports this legislation as it would prohibit insurance companies from providing financial incentives to doctors to change patient medications. This happens often without regard for what treatment option is best for the patient.
Massachusetts Senate Bill 2271: NECCS supports this legislation as it would ensure that insurance companies that provide benefits for cancer chemotherapy treatment must also provide coverage for perscribed, orally administered anticancer medications. Click here to view NECCS' letter of support.
Connecticut Public Act No. 10-63: NECCS supports this legislation as its fundamental purpose is that of Massachusetts Senate Bill 2271. Governor Rell of Connecticut signed this in May 2010. Click here to view NECCS' letter of support.