2017 Epilepsy Awareness Day at the Capitol:

Every year, the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota hosts an annual Day of Epilepsy Awareness at the capitol while our state legislature is in session. This event gives people with epilepsy and their family, friends, caregivers, and advocates a chance to meet their elected representatives, tell their stories, and advocate for legislation that could make an impact on their lives. 

Why Participate at Day at the Capitol?

There are many reasons to join EFMN at the capitol for Epilepsy Awareness Day! Our elected representatives rely on the input of their constituents to govern, so this is your chance to meet your legislators face-to-face and let them know about the unique challenges and experiences that people with epilepsy face. Additionally, keep in mind that:

• Many state legislators are new in 2017
• The Affordable Care Act, or what lies next, is uncertain
• Legislators will vote on a variety of bills that may affect people is epilepsy this session (see below for some examples)

Key Issues:

• Prior Authorization Legislation: Requires health plans to disclose information 30 days prior to enrollment. Prohibits health plans from removing a drug in the enrollee’s contract year. 
  
  
• Medical Assistance Disability: Spenddown and asset eligibility limits are too low, trapping thousands of adults with disabilities and seniors into poverty to qualify for the services they need to live independently. 
  
  
• Best Life Alliance: Four percent compensation increase for direct care workers who support people with disabilities in Home & Community Based Services. 
  
  
• Medical Assistance Coverage of Stiripentol: Dravet syndrome is a rare and catastrophic form of intractable epilepsy that begins in infancy.  Bill would require MN's medical assistance to cover stiripentol for children when medically necessary. 

Event Details:

Meet your elected officials, share your epilepsy journey, and advocate for those affected by seizures! EFMN staff will make legislative appointments for participants. The event is from 8 AM – 2 PM; if you’re unable to stay the entire time, please let us know so staff can make your appointment accordingly. Lunch, materials, and transportation from EFMN (via the light rail) are provided!

Tuesday, March 7th
8:00am - 2:00pm

Sign up here! 

Meet at the Department of Transportation Cafeteria (395 John Ireland Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55155), or take the light rail from the EFMN Office (Suite 300, 1600 University Avenue, Saint Paul MN, 55104).

If you can't make it:

That's okay! You can still contact your state representatives via phone or email to talk about your experience with epilepsy and discuss your opinions on the issues outlined above. Find your state representative's contact information here.