Over the past year the previously known legislative council has undergone changes in its role, responsibility and structure. Essentially, the advisory council no longer represents their state but discusses issues in terms of what is best for the association at large. The primary responsibilities are as follows:
1. Be informed about the association's mission, services, policies, and programs.
2. Identify, discuss and rank issues of concern to members.
3. Review and analyze information related to issues of concern obtained from members of its profession.
4. Provide advice on issues the BOD brings to the advisory councils.
5. Review ASHA's approved budget and forecasts and provide input.
6. Review and comment on policy documents prior to final considerations by the BOD.
7. Engage in activities and conduct discussions throughout the year via electronic communication tools.
8. Attend and participate in the annual meeting of the advisory council.
We no longer meet at ASHA, nor or we considered the "liaison" between our state organization and the BOD. Members are now encouraged and empowered to contact the BOD themselves rather than contacting the advisory council members of each state. You can contact ASHA directly by using the "in touch" form www.asha.org/about/leadership-projects/membersintouch.htm. Also, you can locate the list of resolutions for 2008, the BOD meeting report from August, and any information on legislation and advocacy at www.asha.org/about/legislation-advocacy/.
If there is anything I can do to assist you please do not hesitate to contact me at
mool@phin.org.
Best regards,
Lisa Abbott Moore, MS CCC-SLP,