Connecticut Water Trails Program

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Effective Advocacy - Navigating The Legislative Process

There are some problems that only a change in statute can fix. Many changes in the law happen because one concerned, committed, and patient citizen worked the system to make a positive change. If you are right, you have the information to back it up, and you have the tools - it is not hard at all. It may take years, especially if your issue is large, costly or controversial, but it happens all the time. 

Laws can also serve to raise awareness about a problem. For example, a law cannot require that everyone become more sensitive and supportive of diversity in the workplace, but it can make sexual harassment illegal or offer diversity training for workers. 

Patience

It takes time to change a law or get a new one passed and it should. Most of the time, that is a comforting truth. By and large, things in Connecticut work pretty well. If it's not broken, don't fix it. Any change in the rules we live by should be thoughtfully considered and receive lots of public input before it is implemented. The law of unintended consequences is more powerful than any state or federal statute.

Create Relationships

If you do this right, it will be the beginning of a long-term relationship. Even if you win this one vote this time, chances are you (or someone else on your issue) will be back again next year. Legislators and staff are eager to get your input. Don't burn bridges. Be as helpful as possible. Use all your listening skills. You will pass more bills with honey than with vinegar.

Perspective

Everyone sees the world through the lens of his or her own experiences and biases. Legislators are no different. While your issue is your first priority, it may not be theirs. You have to meet people where they are. If a legislator votes for your bill because it saves money (his reason), not because it improves the health of children (your reason) - no matter. It's still a yes vote.

Understand And Respect The System

Learn the history of your issue - If what you are asking for has been tried and failed (or they think they tried it), you need to know that and address it.

Consider the prevailing climate - In a time of severe budget deficits, expensive programs are unlikely to pass. Election years have their own karma.

Respect the expertise of others - You'd be wise to take the advice of advocates and lobbyists with years of experience. The legislative process is always changing but there are constants. It doesn't always work the way you learned in civics class.

Choose your lobbying target(s) well. Too many of us spend our time preaching to the choir - lobbying our friends who already agree with our position. Sometimes we spend precious resources lobbying legislators who aren't on the relevant committee.

Give solutions when possible. It is hard to argue for the status quo. Don't just be a critic, offer an answer. Show how your idea will address the problem. It is best if your solution has no costs or you can make a case for cost effectiveness.

Be respectful of everyone. You wouldn't think you'd have to say this, but it's amazing how many people forget this. Write thank you notes. Understand that a staffer who is not letting you in to meet with a legislator without an appointment or getting you exactly the document you want right now, is just doing their job.

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