NMEDA Q1 Town Hall Recap

NMEDA recently hosted a member town hall, offering essential updates on industry developments, government relations, and member support initiatives. For those who couldn’t attend, this blog provides a comprehensive recap, along with a recording of the session for reference.

Key Topics Covered:

• Automobility Price Survey (AMPS) Developments
• Past Due Invoice (PDI) Program Guidance
• Government Relations & Veterans Affairs Updates
• Current NMEDA Initiatives & Member Support

This informative session was designed to keep members informed and provide actionable guidance on NMEDA’s ongoing efforts to support the automotive mobility industry.

Automobility Price Survey (AMPS) Update

Presented by: Mikala Poulos, Member Services Manager

Mikala provided important updates on the Automobility Price Survey (AMPS), which collects pricing data from QAP-accredited dealers. Covering 112 items across eight categories, this survey plays a vital role in NMEDA’s ability to share valuable insights to government partners.

Key Takeaways:

• Strong dealer participation is essential to ensure accurate reporting.
• A newly formed AMPS task force, including dealers, manufacturers, and consultants, will address specific industry questions and concerns.
• Survey timeline: Data collection, tabulation, and release are expected by the end of Q1 or early Q2.

Mikala stressed that dealer participation is critical for producing relevant data. Dealers are strongly encouraged to engage in the process, as robust data collection strengthens NMEDA’s advocacy efforts.

Past Due Invoice (PDI) Program Overview

Presented by: Mikala Poulos, Member Services Manager

Mikala also detailed improvements to the PDI Program, designed to assist members in resolving delayed Veterans Affairs (VA) payments.

Submission Guidelines:

• Invoices must be 60+ days past due to qualify.
• Monthly resubmission is required for unpaid invoices.
• The latest version of the submission spreadsheet must be used for VA processing.
• Consistent monthly submission is crucial for accurate tracking.

Process Updates:

• NMEDA maintains two tracking spreadsheets—one for new submissions and another for previously submitted unpaid invoices.
• VA representatives are prioritizing older unpaid invoices and working through the list systematically.

NMEDA hosts monthly meetings with VHA and VBA representatives to address payment delays. Members are strongly encouraged to submit all qualifying invoices to help track and resolve outstanding claims efficiently. This helps NMEDA effectively advocate for timely payments and track resolution progress with VA representatives.

Access the PDI submission spreadsheet here.

Veterans Affairs & Government Relations Update

Presented by: Shawn Richmond, Government Relations & Public Policy Manager

VA Leadership Update

• Shawn highlighted the appointment of Doug Collins as the new VA Secretary following Senate confirmation on February 4, 2025. Collins brings a unique combination of military service, political experience, and personal connection to disability advocacy:
  • Military Background: Colonel in the Air Force Reserve and former Navy veteran.
  • Political Experience: Former Congressional Representative from Georgia’s 9th District.
  • Personal Connection: Father to a daughter with spina bifida who uses a wheelchair.
• As VA Secretary, Collins has prioritized:
  • Streamlining regulations to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies.
  • Enhancing transparency and accountability within the VA.
  • Ensuring veterans receive timely access to their entitled benefits.

NMEDA views Collins’ appointment as a positive development, given his firsthand understanding of mobility challenges and commitment to improving veteran services. His leadership is expected to bring meaningful changes that align with the interests of our industry.

Adaptive Automotive Equipment (AAE) Updates

Presented by: Shawn Richmond, Government Relations & Public Policy Manager

Shawn also covered critical VA regulations impacting AAE reimbursements and industry compliance:

• VA’s Adaptive Equipment Schedule, which outlines maximum reimbursement amounts for adaptive equipment, installation, repairs, and replacements. View the latest schedule here.

• 38 CFR 17.158, the governing regulation for VA adaptive equipment reimbursements. Read the full regulation here.

Action Items for Members:

• Stay informed about AAE reimbursement rates and policy updates.
• Familiarize yourself with 38 CFR 17.158.
• Contact Shawn for any questions regarding regulations or payment procedures.

Strengthening Industry Advocacy

Presented by: Shawn Richmond, Government Relations & Public Policy Manager

NMEDA continues to expand advocacy efforts to address regulatory challenges and payment delays.

Key focus areas include:

• Working to resolve backlogged VA payments.
• Supporting dealers in navigating claim denials.
• Partnering with key organizations such as:
  • Paralyzed Veterans of America
  • United Spinal Association
  • Member dealers engaged in legislative initiatives
• Preparing for potential regulatory amendments in 2025
• Encouraging members to review current VA regulations and provide feedback on their impact.

With regulatory changes on the horizon, member engagement is crucial. NMEDA urges members to stay informed, participate in advocacy efforts, and share insights to help shape industry policies.

CEO’s Closing Message: Your Voice Matters

Toby emphasized the importance of member engagement, stating, “We want to serve you better. Tell us what’s important—whether it’s VA-related concerns, industry trends, or program updates.”

How Members Can Get Involved:

• Suggest topics for upcoming quarterly town hall meetings.
• Share business challenges and industry insights.
• Provide feedback on industry trends and concerns.
• Reach out directly to NMEDA staff.

Program Updates:

• The CAMS Lunch & Learn program is being refreshed to better serve members.
• Member feedback will shape future educational offerings.
• Staff continues to monitor VA related concerns to ensure timely advocacy.

Action Items for Members:

• Submit PDI spreadsheets monthly using the latest form.
• Report any inconsistencies in VA regulations to NMEDA staff.
• Provide feedback on AAE schedule items and reimbursement concerns.
• Share insights for the AMPS task force to improve industry data collection.

Looking Ahead:

The next NMEDA Town Hall is scheduled for April 30, 2025, focusing on QAP and manufacturer updates. Members are encouraged to submit topics and questions in advance to webmaster@nmeda.org.

Final Thoughts

NMEDA remains committed to supporting its members through advocacy, regulatory guidance, and industry data initiatives. The NMEDA team is available Monday through Friday to assist members with questions and concerns. Remember, your engagement helps strengthen our industry and improve services for all members.