How to Influence Legislators

Strategies on Influencing Legislators

Know the Process

* Ideas
* Drafting
* Introduction
* Committee Assignment and Action
* Calendar
* Floor Debate, Amendment, Vote
* Second Chamber
* Governor’s Action
* Law

Focus on and Research Issue

* Propose only essential changes
* Meet the public need first, then your own
* Define the problem
* Identify the specific problem
* Learn all the pertinent background
* Identify alternative solutions

Know the Legislators

* Meet them on their own turf
* Grassroots
* Know the committee makeup and their positions

Stay Informed

* Track the Progress
* Anticipate events
* Avoid surprises
* Advise your colleagues

Contacting Legislators

* Types
* In person
* By phone
* By mail, NO form letters
* E-mail
* Talk to key legislators and staff in both parties
* BE HONEST, ACCURATE, RELIABLE TIMELY, COURTEOUS
* Be brief
* Use local examples
* Use facts
* Prepare a 1-page fact sheet or Q&A or talking points
* Target legislators in your district

Don’ts

* Be overwhelming or confrontational
* Exaggerate
* Threaten
* Accuse
* Be righteous, I pay your salary, I’m a taxpayer
* Forget to thank them for listening or taking action

Make Allies

* Talk to agencies
* Work with similar organizations
* Find out who supports and who opposes
* Keep a good perspective and sense of humor
* Don’t close doors, agree to disagree, you may need them later

REMEMBER THE GOVERNOR HAS TO SIGN ANY BILL