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Jersey Osteopathic Political Action Committee (JOPAC)

Advancing Osteopathic Medicine Through Advocacy and Action

The Jersey Osteopathic Political Action Committee (JOPAC) is the political advocacy arm of the New Jersey Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (NJAOPS). JOPAC exists to protect, advance, and strengthen the practice of osteopathic medicine through strategic political engagement at both the state and federal levels.

Advocacy is not ancillary to NJAOPS — it is foundational. JOPAC is one of the most critical pillars supporting the long-term viability, autonomy, and growth of osteopathic medicine in New Jersey and beyond.

Why JOPAC Matters

Healthcare policy is shaped by those who participate. JOPAC ensures that osteopathic physicians have a seat at the table where legislative and regulatory decisions are made.

Through direct political engagement, coalition-building, and consistent presence in Trenton and Washington, DC, JOPAC:

  • Protects the scope of practice for DOs
  • Advocates for fair reimbursement and regulatory parity
  • Influences legislation impacting patient access to care
  • Supports candidates who understand and champion osteopathic medicine

Without an active and well-supported PAC, the voice of osteopathic medicine risks being diluted in an increasingly complex political environment.

State & Federal Advocacy

New Jersey Legislative Presence

NJAOPS maintains a strong and active presence in Trenton, supported by experienced legislative professionals and physician leadership.

  • Legislative Counsel: Laurie Clark
    Provides strategic guidance on state legislation, regulatory monitoring, and advocacy initiatives.
  • Monthly Legislative Meetings:
    NJAOPS hosts monthly meetings with New Jersey legislators, fostering direct dialogue on healthcare policy, workforce challenges, and patient care issues affecting osteopathic physicians.

Federal Engagement

JOPAC’s advocacy extends beyond state borders.

  • Partnership with AOA’s OPAC:
    NJAOPS actively collaborates with the American Osteopathic Association’s Osteopathic Political Action Committee (OPAC), ensuring New Jersey’s osteopathic voice is represented in Washington, DC on federal healthcare policy matters.

This dual-level engagement allows NJAOPS to address legislative challenges comprehensively — from state scope-of-practice laws to federal reimbursement, workforce, and healthcare reform initiatives.

Legal & Strategic Oversight

JOPAC’s advocacy efforts are supported by experienced legal counsel to ensure compliance, strategic clarity, and effective policy engagement.

  • General Counsel: Vinceton Buttaci, Esq.
    Provides legal oversight and counsel related to legislative matters, governance, and PAC operations.

This structure ensures that advocacy efforts are ethical, compliant, and strategically aligned with NJAOPS’ mission.

Leadership & Influence

Tajma Kotoric, CEO of NJAOPS, plays a key leadership role in advancing healthcare advocacy in New Jersey.

  • Serves on the NEWJOBS Board of Trustees, the largest business political action committee in New Jersey

This position strengthens NJAOPS’ influence across the broader business and policy landscape, creating opportunities for collaboration and amplifying the osteopathic voice in statewide decision-making.

How JOPAC Works

JOPAC supports and engages with elected officials who:

  • Understand the unique philosophy and value of osteopathic medicine
  • Support policies that improve patient access and physician autonomy
  • Advocate for a sustainable healthcare workforce

Funds raised through JOPAC are used to:

  • Support aligned political candidates
  • Maintain consistent legislative engagement
  • Strengthen NJAOPS’ advocacy infrastructure
  • Protect DO's scope of practice rights in New Jersey

Get Involved

Political advocacy is most effective when physicians are engaged.

You can support JOPAC by:

  • Contributing to the PAC
  • Attending legislative meetings and advocacy events
  • Building relationships with elected officials
  • Staying informed on key legislative issues through NJAOPS' Update

Your participation directly impacts the future of osteopathic medicine in New Jersey.

Commitment to the Future of Osteopathic Medicine

JOPAC is committed to ensuring that osteopathic physicians are not merely reacting to policy changes, but actively shaping them.

Through sustained advocacy, strategic partnerships, and physician engagement, JOPAC protects today’s practice environment while securing tomorrow’s opportunities.

Advocacy is our responsibility. Participation is our power.

 

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