Effective Citizen Lobbying
Legislators face a big challenge during a General Assembly. More
than 1,500 bills are filed for consideration during a Regular
Session. Many bills deal with complex issues including Kentucky’s
31 billion dollar budget. Since legislators have only 60 working
days during a Regular Session, they need concise and reliable
information in a hurry.
Timing is everything during a General Assembly. As a citizen lobbyist, you can be a valuable source of information to your representative and build a lasting relationship.
More than 600 individuals are registered with the Legislative Ethics Commission as Legislative Agents, also known as Lobbyists or Advocates.. These individuals (many are professionals) represent organizations for most everything. Input from concerned citizens or grass roots coalitions can and does make an impact in the decision making process. All the above have one thing in common, however, and that is seeking to influence how legislators vote on their issue.
Citizens have an equal voice even with all the Lobbyists and Advocates running around the Capital. The following are suggested strategies for constituents when voicing their positions.
Lobbying Tips
Keep these little gems of wisdom in mind when working with your
legislators, and remember that your credibility is vital if you
seek to change hearts and minds of elected officials.
Remember you ABC’s - accuracy, brevity, and courtesy;
Know the status of your legislation or any amendments;
Know what the bill does, who it affects and what it costs;
Tell your legislator in plain language how a bill affects your community;
Communicate regularly and be persistent (mail, phone, fax, or e-mail);
Get to know your legislator and their staff;
Work with your legislators in your home district;
Be polite and know when to back-off from debate;
"Keep your eyes on the prize" and don't get discouraged.
What not to do:
Most of these things you learned not to do a long time ago. Building
a relationship that last will benefit you and your cause in the
long run.
Never threaten retaliation, especially in the voting booth;
Never be dishonest, if you don't know an answer say so;
Never make assumptions;
Never waste a legislator's time, be as brief as possible;
Never criticize individuals, or political parties;
Never be rude or discourteous.
