Empower. Protect. Inform.

The Epilepsy Foundation is a vigorous advocate for people with epilepsy. The Foundation has been active in Congress, the executive branch, and the courts, focusing attention on the needs of those with epilepsy. Priorities for the Foundation include: the availability of affordable quality health care, the search for the cure, and the protection of civil rights for people with epilepsy.

Improving Health Coverage in 2008
The Epilepsy Foundation and 47 organizations released a statement calling on the 2008 presidential candidates to propose specific solutions that guarantee effective and affordable health & long-term care for all Americans.
                                  » Read more.

Americans with Disabilities Act Restoration

Over the past 17 years, the courts have narrowed the definition of disability so much that people with epilepsy, and other conditions who manage their disabilities, are viewed as “too functional” to have a disability.

On the 17th Anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Congressional leaders, with strong support from the Epilepsy Foundation, the National Disability Rights Network, and the larger disability community have introduced ADA Restoration Act.

Check out these resources for more on this proposed legislation:

» Live coverage of the ADA Restoration Act hearings
» Epilepsy Foundation CEO's Letter to Community
» ADA Restoration: An Overview
» ADA Restoration: Talking Points
» Find out if your representative is among the 244 cosponsors of H.R. 3195

VA Epilepsy Centers of Excellence Act

Experts believe 30-50% of military personnel affected by TBI will develop epilepsy.  Perlmutter and Lamborn introduced HR 2818: VA Epilepsy Centers of Excellence Act to prepare the Veterans Administration for the expected influx of new cases.  The bill would create six epilepsy "Centers of Excellence" that will lead the way in diagnosis, research, treatment and surgery.

Epilepsy Foundation Board Member Brien Smith, MD spoke forcefully about the impact epilepsy will have on the future lives of countless veterans. Full story.

More resources:

» Read Dr. Smith's complete testimony.
» High Rate of Head Injuries in Iraq Soldiers Portends Potential Wave of Epilepsy. By Brenda Patoine