Why it Matters
The Epilepsy Foundation of America is significantly upgrading its Washington influence operation by hiring Crossroads Strategies LLC, a major D.C. firm with deep pharmaceutical industry ties. This strategic expansion allows the Foundation to position itself for major legislative battles concerning epilepsy research funding and pharmacy benefit manager reform.
By the Numbers
The Foundation has maintained an in-house lobbying team since 2003. They currently collaborate with Health and Medicine Counsel alongside internal advocates. Crossroads brings five seasoned lobbyists to the account:
- Jason Benjamin Van Pelt: Former Legislative Director for Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY)
- Ivelisse Alexandra Porroa-Garcia: Ex-Policy Director for Congressional Hispanic Caucus
- Stephen T. Voljavec: Former Legislative Director for Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL)
- Brittany Johnson Hernandez: Nine-year House veteran
- Cheryl Lynn Jaeger: Former House Energy and Commerce Committee staff
Broader Context
Congress is actively examining pharmacy benefit manager practices through multiple hearings. The House Energy and Commerce Committee and Senate Judiciary Committee have spotlighted PBM abuses. Healthcare affordability remains a top priority, especially with enhanced premium tax credits set to expire. Meanwhile, the Senate HELP Committee has examined broader cost-cutting solutions.
The Agenda
The Foundation’s lobbying registration focuses on four key areas:
- Securing epilepsy research funding at CDC, NIH, and Defense Department
- Supporting coverage and access to epilepsy treatments
- Advocating for pharmacy benefit manager reform
- Backing affordable health insurance access, including extended premium tax credits
Their flagship legislation is the National Plan for Epilepsy Act (S.494/H.R.1189). This bipartisan bill coordinates federal epilepsy research and services.
Competitive Landscape
Other epilepsy advocates are active on Capitol Hill. The Epilepsies Action Network focuses on awareness and research funding, while the National Association of Epilepsy Centers lobbies on reimbursement and telehealth matters. Medical device company LivaNova advocates for Medicare treatment access, and the American Academy of Neurology supports broader neurological funding.
Between The Lines
Strong bipartisan support exists for epilepsy priorities. Members like Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA), Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC), and Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) have championed the National Plan for Epilepsy Act through public communications. Additionally, the PBM Reform Act of 2025 (H.R.4317) targets transparency and competition, while the Health Care Affordability Act aims for permanent premium tax credits.
The Bottom Line
The Foundation’s hire signals a preparation for high-stakes legislative battles. With Crossroads’ pharmaceutical industry connections and bipartisan congressional ties, they expect to gain new leverage. With epilepsy-specific bills advancing in Parliament and broader healthcare discussions becoming intense, the Foundation targets expanded influence during a critical policy window.
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