Federal & State Legislation

AADE is always working for its members at both the Federal and State levels on issues that support and promote the diabetes educator. In addition, we are constantly monitoring legislation that affects diabetes educators, diabetes education and people with diabetes. When needed, AADE takes a position on an issue. These are current pieces of legislation that AADE is supporting, opposing or monitoring.

Federal Legislation

In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Ed Whitfield (R-KY) and original co-sponsor Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) have introduced H.R. 1274, the "Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2013."

In the U.S. Senate, Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have introduced S. 945, the "Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2013." 

The "Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2013," Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to recognize state-licensed or -registered certified diabetes educators or state-licensed or -registered health care professionals who specialize in teaching individuals with diabetes to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to manage the individual's diabetic condition and are certified as a diabetes educator by a recognized certifying body. Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to study the barriers that exist for Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes in accessing diabetes self-management training services under the Medicare program. Requires the Director of the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop a series of recommendations on effective outreach methods to educate primary care physicians and other health care providers as well as the public about the benefits of diabetes self-management training.

To view H.R. 1274 in its entirety please click here. To view S. 945 in its entirety please click here.

Please TAKE ACTION on the "Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2013" by clicking here.

State Legislation

Indiana State Representative David Frizzell (R-93rd) and Majority Whip introduced  HB1242 which creates the diabetes educators licensure board, and provides for the licensure of diabetes educators. HB1242 passed both houses but was vetoed by Governor Mike Pence on May 8, 2013. Current AADE President Tami Ross addressed the Governor's decision to veto on May 17, 2013 in the  Indianapolis Star; to read the article, click here.