Legislative Activities

Over the years, IFFGD activities have often included trips to Washington, D.C. to speak with elected officials and regulators about digestive health issues.

Digestive Disease National Coalition (DDNC)

For many years, Nancy chaired this association of 23 patient and professional organizations that seeks to urge the U.S. Congress to provide support for gastrointestinal disorders. In this role, she has helped shape public policy for the entire digestive disease community.

Members of the IFFGD staff also participate in the DDNC's annual Public Policy Forum, spending two days on Capitol Hill with visits to Congressional offices to encourage research spending and support for digestive disorders.

Testimony to the U.S. Congress

Nancy and other representatives from IFFGD have testified numerous times over the years before the U.S. Congress. She has submitted language that has been incorporated into Appropriations Bills drafted by the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. In response to Nancy's testimony, Congress adopted the following:

"The Committee recommends that the NIDDK maintain adequate support for irritable bowel syndrome/functional bowel disorders research and give priority consideration to funding IBS education/scientific symposiums."

FDA Alliance

IFFGD is a member of the FDA Alliance, an organization with more than 100 members, including six former FDA Commissioners. The FDA Alliance is a leading advocate for increased appropriated funding for FDA. Formed in April 2006, the FDA Alliance’s membership includes consumer and patient groups, professional organizations, trade associations, companies and individuals. The FDA Alliance has asked Congress to commit to providing a significant funding increase to FDA to prevent the further erosion of the Agency’s ability to perform its core mission.

Coalition for a Stronger FDA

IFFGD is a member of the Coalition for a Stronger FDA, a broad and diverse coalition calling for a renewed public commitment to the Food and Drug Administration and its unique role in protecting American consumers and patients. The Coalition brings together patient groups, nonprofit organizations, consumer advocates, public health organizations and innovative companies to work together to increase support for the FDA. The Coalition is designed to be a multi-year effort with the following goals: (1) making sure the FDA has sufficient resources to protect patients and consumers and (2) maintaining and building public confidence and trust in the FDA.