NYSANA Colleagues:
I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the holiday season. The 2021-2022 term is well underway and I have several important updates and announcements to share with you.
Legislative Update
The 2022 legislative session convenes on January 5, 2022 and runs through June 2, 2022. Together with our NYSANA Lobbyist, Amy Kellogg we've already started making some noise.
On November 17, I traveled to New York City to testify on NYSANA's behalf at the “Lessons Learned During COVID-19 Pandemic” Assembly Hearing. In my testimony, I explained to the Committee how valuable CRNAs were when we were granted full scope through Executive Order 202.10 under former Governor Cuomo and Executive Order 4 under Governor Hochul, and how important it is to make these provisions from the Executive Orders permanent. I stood strong, representing NYSANA, advocating for the belief that CRNAs play a critical role in the delivery of health care services and that we must learn from the COVID-19 pandemic and recognize that it is time for New York to join the other 49 states in passing scope of practice for CRNAs. You can view my full testimony here.
On Monday, November 22 NYSANA Lobbyist, Amy Kellogg and I attended a "Women For Hochul" event where I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Governor Kathy Hochul. On Tuesday, November 23, we attended a meet and greet event with Senator Stavisky, Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee. In January, we have a Leadership Advocacy Day planned during CRNA week. More details on that will be provided once we know if the Capital will be open and have access to the visitor policy.
Political Action Committee Update
It is vital that we support candidates for elected office who rally around and advocate for CRNAs and the issues of importance to the profession. The Political Action Committee (PAC) helps support these candidates. The more funding PAC has, the more effective we can be when it comes to advocating for CRNAs of New York.
As we approach the end of the year and enter the holiday season of giving, please consider a PAC donation by credit card or check.
NYSANA PAC Donor Circle
Donors who give $250 or more annually will be recognized in the NYSANA Donor Circle and at NYSANA events. Recognition levels, which include Friends of NYSANA, Supporters of NYSANA and NYSANA Visionaries are determined based on a donor’s annual giving. Donors may choose to give in one lump sum or through our monthly program.
Update From Districts
On Wednesday, December 1 the Capital District Education District hosted their first meeting in almost two years! The evening was a great success, with 50 individuals registered, several new donations to PAC and presentations from NYSANA Lobbyist, Amy Kellogg; NYSANA Vice President, Sean McGarry; PAC Committee Chair, Stephanie Grolemund and research presentations from two Albany Med students.
Educational District Committee Chair, Kelly Barney and I met with all District Chairs and the PAC to kick off 2022 planning and activity. As a reminder, I encourage all educational districts to plan meetings in January and February. Amy Kellogg and I plan to attend each meeting to jump-start member advocacy efforts and Get It Through in '22. At each District Meeting, every member will be given a card with the names of their state Senator and Assemblyperson to help prepare a meeting with them and to advocate for your profession. You can also find your local representatives on NYSANA’s Advocacy Page.
I understand outreach can feel intimidating. But the NYSANA Board of Directors and Government Relations Committee is here to support you. Contact GRC Chair, Amy Harbeck to be a mentor and help NYSANA members with outreach to local legislators or if you have questions and would like support!
Board Update and News
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After an extensive search, the Finance Committee approved a new investment firm, Hefren-Tillotson out of Pittsburgh, PA. Kevin Krul is NYSANA's investment manager and is available to answer personal investment questions.
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NYSANA is joining with Connecticut Association of Nurse Anesthetists (CTANA) to host the Spring Meeting, April 29 - May 1. We have many exciting programs planned, including an introductory Twin Oaks Ultrasound workshop sponsored by Pacira. Watch your email for more information.
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NYSANA Vice President, Sean McGarry has been actively seeking Committee Chairs for Hudson Educational District Committee and Public Relations Committee. If you’re interested in learning more about either of these positions, please contact Sean McGarry.
- Please join me in welcoming Marco Perez, MSNA, CRNA, APRN as new Chair of Student Liaison Committee. Marco has been a nurse for 24 years. He has been a CRNA for 13 years primarily at a Level 1 academic trauma center. He is the founder and president of Perez Anesthesia Svcs PC and currently practices as an independent contractor for CRNA services to hospitals and surgery centers. Mr. Perez volunteers his time as a mentor to many future CRNAs and by serving on various committees.
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Every four years you must renew your CRNA credentials. You can find the latest information and CPC Toolkit on NYSANA’s website.
Award Nominations Now Open
This is a big year for NYSANA as we seek to get our bill signed into law and Get It Through in '22. I know we can make this happen, but I cannot do it without you. Please, get involved. Let your voice be heard with your local lawmaker. Donate to PAC. Join a committee. Join the Members of NYSANA Facebook group. The louder we are together, the better our chance at seeing our bill passed into law. Let's make history!
Respectfully,
Giovanna Mahar, DNAP, CRNA
President, NYSANA
