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Overview

ASHA’s Legislative Advocacy Program

Effective outreach to help shape favorable public policies

As the respected voice of the seniors housing industry, ASHA’s Government Affairs Team works to inform lawmakers, guide decision-making and generate support for policies on critical issues that impact our members business and the residents they serve. As owners and operators continue to navigate a post COVID-19 environment, the economic challenges are significant. Policymakers need to be made aware of the benefits of senior living to keep older adults out of more costly institutional settings, thereby creating sizable savings for the health care system. ASHA lobbyists work hand in hand with Congress and its staff, various government agencies, and in coalition with industry partners. This collaborative approach positively influences key policies affecting long-term care, business operations, tax policy, housing and health care.

ASHA’s Advocacy Team

Dynamic professionals who understand the legislative process

ASHA works to advance legislation and regulations that are favorable to the future growth, development and needs of senior living owners and operators, and residents who call senior living “home.” Advocacy efforts include direct lobbying, grassroots engagement, member outreach, coalition building, and the administration of the Seniors Housing Political Action Committee (SH PAC). The ASHA team identifies public policy opportunities, develops effective lobbying strategies, and achieves success by utilizing a wide network of bipartisan relationships with key decision-makers. With experience in both policy and politics, ASHA’s advocacy team has a passion for securing “wins” to help the industry create the best living and care environment for their residents.

David Schless, President & CEO
Jeanne McGlynn Delgado, Vice President, Government Affairs
Sheff Richey, Director, Government Affairs
Stuart Chapman, Partner, Thorn Run Partners

“The industry is at a crossroads, and we must have a seat at the table to ensure we have smart federal policies in place that will allow us to meet the growing demand for our product. Senior living is uniquely positioned to play a significant role in federal policy that addresses the growing needs of an aging population by offering quality care and services that result in better health outcomes and overall wellbeing.”

Michelle Kelly, SVP, National Health Investors (NHI), 2025 ASHA Public Policy Chair

ASHA Government Affairs team and ASHA members at the Capitol, during the September 2023 Washington, DC fly-in event.

ASHA’s 2025 Public Policy Committee

The ASHA Public Policy Committee, led by Michelle Kelly, National Health Investors Inc., is comprised of industry leaders who offer guidance, insight, and bring real-world experience to the table as policy initiatives are considered.