A Proactive Playbook for the 2026 Legislative Sessions: How to Successfully Shape Your Future (LIVE Webinar)-A Proactive Playbook for the 2026 Legislative Sessions: How to Successfully Shape Your Future

A Proactive Playbook for the 2026 Legislative Sessions: How to Successfully Shape Your Future - Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The IHS webinar titled "A Proactive Playbook for the 2026 Legislative Session" featured expert panelists sharing strategies for effective advocacy in hearing healthcare. Christine Seitz, IHS Government Affairs Manager, highlighted recent state victories protecting licensure and patient safety, emphasizing the importance of educating legislators about the professional, non-transactional nature of hearing aid specialists' work. Panelists Ralph Jackson, Katie Mizuchowski, and Clay O'Ham shared real-world experiences from Georgia, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina, discussing coalition-building, legislative wins, and overcoming opposition through personal relationships and lobbying. They stressed the critical role of lobbyists, in-person meetings, and consistent advocacy efforts, including hosting Advocacy Days and meeting legislators regularly. Katie detailed Pennsylvania’s efforts to modernize outdated licensure laws and exams by working collaboratively with health departments and stakeholders. Clay recounted North Carolina's legislative successes achieved by focusing on public health benefits over professional competition and maintaining respectful dialogue with audiology groups. The presenters encouraged hearing healthcare professionals to actively engage with legislators by scheduling meetings, sharing patient stories, and using IHS advocacy resources. The webinar concluded with practical action steps and a Q&A emphasizing persistence, relationship-building, and clear communication as keys to safeguarding and advancing the profession in upcoming legislative sessions.

Keywords

IHS webinar

2026 legislative session

hearing healthcare advocacy

licensure protection

patient safety

coalition-building

lobbying strategies

legislative wins

professional engagement