March 2005

Dear AMC/NOMA member:

Did you know that The Academy of Medicine of Cleveland/Northern Ohio Medical Association (AMC/NOMA) has initiated mandatory arbitration legislation that has been introduced in the Senate?? This legislation (SB 88 – details attached) was crafted based upon input from our members that have been demanding a change in the civil justice system. The AMC/NOMA is an independent organization working hard to represent the interests of the physicians in Northern Ohio. We have two competent lobbyists with offices in both Cleveland and Columbus that represent OUR grassroots interests – we work with legislators to affect changes that will benefit patients and physicians while achieving a balance that will assist physicians and patients throughout the state. The AMC/NOMA relies on NOMPAC to impact issues relevant to physicians – such as SB 88. The personal injury lawyers have already come out in strong opposition to SB 88. Therefore, we need every physician to contribute to NOMPAC in order to continue to fight on your behalf. The AMC/NOMA needs your support – we need NOMPAC donations and we ask that you write or call your legislator or members of the committee reviewing this bill – the Senate Insurance Commerce and Labor Committee voicing your support of SB 88.** 

In addition, it is also important that our members take note of the fact that one of the last items completed by the last General Assembly was campaign finance reform. While there were no substantive changes made to the limits on contributions to political action committees such as NOMPAC, there was a definite increase approved in caps on personal contributions, therefore more money will make its way into the political system. For example, the law used to allow for individual contributions of up to $2,500 per election cycle per candidate. With the passage of the campaign finance reform effort, that cap has increased to $10,000 per election cycle per candidate. This reality will have a direct impact on NOMPAC because as overall personal contributions rise and NOMPAC does not rise with the tide; our ability to affect the outcome of an important issue is reduced. Any donation you can make to NOMPAC will be very valuable.

Physician support of NOMPAC provides a medical voice with legislators who share health care concerns and will be supportive of medicine. If we do not keep this voice loud and strong we will not achieve our goals. NOMPAC relies on financial support from you, the practicing physician and member of the AMC/NOMA, to bring about positive changes for patients and the medical profession. As a member of the AMC/NOMA, you may contribute to the NOMPAC. Contribute today! All contributions to NOMPAC are voluntary and MUST be made by personal check. Ohio law prohibits corporations from making financial contributions, although contributions from limited liability companies and partnerships are permitted under Ohio law. Contributions to NOMPAC are not deductible for state and federal income tax purposes. Enclosed you will find a brochure for NOMPAC and a return envelope. Contribute now and have your voice heard during this critical time for medicine. If you have any additional questions, please call the AMC/NOMA at (216) 520-1000 and ask for Elayne Biddlestone on ext. 321.

Sincerely,

John A. Bastulli, M.D., President, NOMPAC

** Information on SB 88 is enclosed along with an AMC/NOMA legislative directory to assist you in writing to the legislature. OR you may log onto our web site at www.amcnoma.org and email legislators. Simply click on Legislation on the home page and then go to Find Your Legislator - you may then send emails directly to legislators through that link. A sample letter is also enclosed.