Legislative Education

 Lobbying is defined as attempting to influence the passage or defeat of legislation or administrative rules and regulations.  It is done by a wide variety of organizations and individuals at local, state and federal levels.  Lobbying is not a bad word, although it has as times been given an unsavory image in the general public's mind.

Legislators need YOUR help

Citizen lobbyists perform a valuable function in the legislative process.  With thousands of separate pieces of legislation to consider every year, legislators in Columbus and Washington need the opinions, advice, and specialized knowledge of their constituents to guide them.  It is impossible for any legislator to have detailed knowledge of the technicalities of every bill that he or she must consider.  This means that even if you  oppose the bill, legislators welcome your letters because you are providing them with the knowledge they need to make the decision.

Contrary to the perception of many, lobbying is not for experts only.  Lobbying can be easy, as well as stimulating and fun.  All you need to be an effective lobbyist are three things:

1. Belief in your cause – All causes are good causes.  You must convince your legislator(s) that your cause is special.  If you have conviction, dedication to the cause, loyalty to the organization, and determination to see the job through no matter how long it takes, then you will be an effective lobbyist. 

2. Be prepared – Know your facts – do your homework.

What is the substance of the legislation you are proposing (or opposing)?

 Why is it so important?

What will happen if it passes (or does not pass)?

How much will it cost?

3. A little common sense – Whether lobbying face-to-face, by letter, or by telephone, an effective lobbyist will be brief;be prepared;be clear;be honest;be accurate;be persuasive;be timely;be persistent; and be grateful.  Talk with the sponsor and/or their aide  regarding ways they believe you can help with passage of the bill.

Understand your opposition.  Who they are, what is their position and why.  Don't underestimate their commitment to work as hard or harder than you.  Don't threaten – be reasonable.  Know that you can concede and still have a workable bill.  When there are many opponents, deal with them one at a time according to their strength and importance.  You may not have to overcome all opposition, just the strongest.  It is a matter of bargaining.

Don't spend a lot of energy in opposition of a bill that has no hope of getting out of committee.

Why legislators vote the way they do

Legislators are individuals who try to be responsive to their constituencies.  Legislators' primary concern is to win re-election.  We need to understand the legislator's political base, personal inclinations and convictions, party dictates, and the promises made during the campaign or to the leaders of their caucus.

There are many influences at work:

ü Campaign workers and contributors

ü Constituency interests as determined by letters, phone calls, surveys/polls

ü Opinions of fellow legislators

ü The stance of the party caucus

ü The Administration (Governor)

ü Lobbyists and special interest groups

You are less likely to make assumptions if you recognize these points.  If a legislator opposes your position this time, that same legislator may support a later effort of yours.  Be tenacious but be respectful and understanding.  Nurture your relationship with your legislator and expand your knowledge of the influences at work.