APPROPRIATIONS

All Time Record of Hill Visits

Over the past several months, nearly 50 hill visits have been made to Members of Congress regarding the newly established Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) program. Throughout the spring, Education Advocacy staff have accompanied GPE grantees and other APA members in hill meetings with their Congressional delegations to request support for $8 million for FY 2004. Almost all of those visited agreed to send letters of support to the Appropriations Subcommittees.

In addition, Education Advocacy staff and appropriations consultant Evan Knisely have met with all the key appropriations committee staff (majority and minority), as well as with members of the influential Black Caucus. It is clear that we have continued support from Congressmen Bill Young, House Appropriations Chair, and Ralph Regula, House Appropriations Subcommittee Chair, as well as Senator Tom Harkin, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee. And a great deal of interest has also been expressed by Congressman David Obey, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee, and Senator Arlen Specter, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee.

Where's the Money

This is without a doubt the most difficult budget cycle so far and GPE is very vulnerable for a number of reasons. First, once again, the President's Budget is calling for the elimination of all the health profession programs, except those for nursing. Second, funding of other programs and priorities (e.g., Iraqi war and recovery operations, homeland security, anti-terrorism, natural disasters, etc.) will leave less money available for health, education and labor programs. Finally, the budget deficit and recent tax cuts will significantly reduce the overall federal budget. Consequently, another battle between the administration and the appropriators for FY 2004 funding is expected.

What A Difference A Grant Makes

For the very first time, we have been able to take recipients of federal funding for psychology education and training (GPE grantees) to the hill. And, what an impressive group of individuals they are, representing extraordinary programs that have been in place for less than a year. Consequently, as noted above, almost everyone we have met with has agreed to support GPE. To paraphrase a well-know adage, "Nothing sells as well as (living proof of) success."

Friends in High Places

Even though there are indeed many challenges ahead, because we have a number of influential Members of Congress (champions) supporting our initiative, we have reason to be optimistic that GPE will survive. The only problem is we are uncertain at what level the support will be. Considering the current circumstances, flat-funding for FY 2004 might be considered a victory.

AUTHORIZATION

The Law is the Final Word

Authorization of all the programs administered by the Bureau of Health Professions (BHPr) is up for renewal this congress. The BHPr was last reauthorized in 1998 after a six-year effort (three congresses). In fact, the reauthorization of BHPr is not considered as important as some of the other health legislation (e.g., prescription drug program), plus it can be controversial and some of the eligible health professions are actually powerful enough to hold up the legislation. The last time around the Senate drafted the bill that the House accepted. This time the tables might be reversed or another scenario is possible: both Chambers draft bills that are very different. It is also rumored that the Senate might consolidate the remaining programs and remove their discrete funding lines. Senator Enzi's Appropriations Aide stated they will try to protect funding for mental and behavioral health if the latter occurs; however, we will need to work to ensure that funds for psychology training continue to be mandated and not left to the discretion of agency officials.

Making GPE Legal

APA's proposed amendments to the reauthorization of BHPr are aimed at obtaining a clear authority for the GPE Program. The proposed language is critical to providing stability and a degree of permanence for the GPE program. It will also ensure a grant cycle of three years similar to the other BHPr programs.

Finding Champions

While we do not have one specific champion, many Members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee have expressed strong support for GPE and APA's proposed amendments for the upcoming reauthorization. Education Advocacy staff are just beginning to reach out to House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee Members. Good news: A chief Aide of a key member of the HELP committee has already stated his willingness to include GPE in their draft.

FY 2003 APPLICATION

Climbing Mt Everest

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's historic climb to the top of Mount Everest, we are reminded that Elvis sang about being given a mountain after a hill of challenges. Such is the case this year with the FY2003 GPE application. What greater challenge could there be than getting the GPE application with all the restrictions and requirements in the middle of July, with only six short weeks during August vacation to work on it, and not knowing if it will be funded until after the school year starts. Clearly, the weak of heart dare not apply.

Hopefully those of you who love a challenge will apply - not only because you see this as an opportunity for additional funding, but also as a chance to advance psychology in Congress and the federal agencies.

For individuals up to the challenge, we are offering a small consolation in the form of conference calls, which will be used to gather questions and identify problems. We will then seek answers and solutions that will hopefully facilitate the application process. Please contact Amanda Ring by email or phone (202/312-6483) if you are planning to apply.

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