Members,
I thought it might be a good time to provide you with some updates on our work and plan for the upcoming budget.   Please be assured that our interests are well represented both at DODD and the State House.
OPRA has wonderful relationships with our long-term paid lobbyist and since both Jeff and Mark are no longer in the picture, I have authorized the increase in time, effort and leadership of our lobbyist to fight on behalf of our issues.   Mike Toman from the Success Group, is the lead person in our budget initiatives.  In addition, member Than Johnson and accomplished relationship builder himself, has taken on an active role in the process.   The OPRA Board leadership has spoken with Mike on several occasions and we are in constant contact with the entire team by daily email.  In addition, we have met with Director Davis on numerous occasions and as you can imagine, he is very aware of our needs.
At the forefront we are fighting for an increase in Direct Care wages.  In addition we are working on OSOC, reform in some specific ICF regulations and NMT.  We have an up-hill battle, but I am more than confident that our unified message is being directed by one of the most accomplished lobbyist in Columbus.  We are very lucky, he even keeps Than focused!
To pull all of these efforts together, we have hired the public relations firm called Swing State, to manage our messaging.  This is a huge deal.  Swing State, under the direction of Mike Toman and OPRA leadership, will refine our messages and target key legislators and their districts.  Plan to see articles about our industry in local and statewide news publications and social media.  Also plan for the reality that you might be asked to provide information about your agency for targeted publicity.
Under the guidance of both the Success Group and Swing State, I believe our budget strategy is by far stronger than it has ever been.  We went out and hired the best of the best to represent you!
Lastly, as we complete our search for the next OPRA CEO, please be assured that the day-to-day operations at OPRA haven’t missed a beat.   Anita Allen is the interim CEO and along with our dedicated staff, she is making sure that OPRA is focused on all of you.  Of course the OPRA Board leadership is working non-stop for the organization and all of our members.  Remember we are all members to and want nothing but success!
If you have any doubts during this uncertain time, please know that OPRA is on it!
As always, please feel free to reach out to me at jamie.steele@ovrs.org<mailto:jamie.steele@ovrs.org> with any questions or concerns.