State Affairs

Oxford Day
On March 4, the State Affairs team hosted 22 Oxford College students and their accompanying staff at the Georgia State Capitol. The students started their morning hearing from the State Affairs team, an administrative assistant, Representative Tim Fleming, Emory’s contract lobbyists, and local and federal team members of OGCA. The group then moved to the House gallery to be recognized by Representative Fleming on the House floor. The visit ended with a tour of the Capitol and a photo on the north steps.

Crossover Day
On March 6, the State Affairs team worked under the Gold Dome until almost midnight during Crossover Day—the deadline for bills to pass out of their chamber of origin to remain under consideration. Over 100 bills were debated and voted on in both the House and Senate Chambers. As this is the first year of the two-year legislative cycle, all bills that failed to crossover could still be passed next legislative session. Additionally, language can always be added to existing bills through an amendment. The State Affairs team will continue to actively engage with the legislature through the conclusion of the 2025 legislative session on April 4.

Federal Affairs

President Fenves on Capitol Hill
On March 5, President Gregory L. Fenves met with policymakers on Capitol Hill to advocate for Emory’s research enterprise and tax priorities. The President discussed Emory’s groundbreaking work, expressed appreciation for federal resources, and illuminated the downstream impacts resulting from cuts to indirect costs and research grants. President Fenves and the OGCA team continued to build on Emory’s relationships, offering to be a constructive and collaborative partner.

Government Funding Update
Congress appears to be on its way to passing a Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 continuing resolution (CR) today. The House-passed bill continues funding and provisions for most federal agencies at their FY2024 levels through Sept. 30, 2025. Overall, the bill reduces nondefense funding by $13 billion and increases defense spending by $6 billion. The CR includes a provision to prevent changes to facility and administrative fees. The original language, which the courts upheld, extends until Sept. 30. The bill also extends the expiring telehealth provisions, funding for GME programs, and elimination of scheduled DSH cuts. For a section-by-section view of the legislation, please see here.

Research Advocacy
Are you interested in learning how to advocate for research? Emory is a Research!America member and our community is invited to join a Zoom meeting on Tuesday, March 18, from 12-1 p.m. This members-only advocacy training session is designed to equip you with the tools to engage policymakers and communicate the value of research effectively.

Register on Zoom

Community Affairs

Wellness Walkers Program
On March 11, Emory Healthcare and Northlake Mall hosted the kick-off event for Northlake Wellness Walkers, a monthly program designed to support both the community and Emory Healthcare employees who walk the mall for exercise. Mayor Frank Auman of the city of Tucker joined the event, offering opening remarks before participating in the inaugural walk. Tucker City Councilwoman Cara Schroeder also took part in the event. We appreciate the city of Tucker for its ongoing partnership and support.

Pictured above are Councilwoman Cara Schroeder, Byron Hunter, Betty Willis, Mayor Frank Auman, Cheryl Iverson, and Natalie Riner.

Board of Visitors

The Board of Visitors hosted a conversation with Joon Lee, MD, CEO of Emory Healthcare, on March 13. Dr. Lee discussed what makes Emory Healthcare unique and shared his thoughts on navigating recent federal directives, policy changes, and legislative proposals. We appreciate Dr. Lee taking the time to meet with the Board, and for providing meaningful insights into the impactful work happening within Emory Healthcare.

1599 Clifton Road, NE, Suite 5.201, Atlanta, GA 30322 | 404-727-4088 | kendra.price@emory.edu