HOW TO HAVE AN EFFECTIVE MEETING WITH YOUR REPRESENTATIVE

Advocacy/Lobbying Meetings

Research the issue or bill and know the key points well. Understand the other side.

Prepare a one-page summary sheet that includes a clearly stated summary of the issue, the need, the solution to the problem, and a list of supporters. Address the other side’s arguments. This is a fact sheet; it can be in bullet form. Mail or fax a copy to their office prior to your meeting.

Carry a folder - not a briefcase.

Have extra copies of your summary to hand out.

Give the legislator another summary sheet and illustrate points with specific examples. Walk a copy of your summary over to the staff member to have it put into the folder.

Emphasize areas of agreement, and ask for the legislator’s support of the issue.

Never say “As a taxpayer…” Always be polite, even if challenged.

Think about the meeting carefully. It’s not always possible to get a vote; there’s so much more to walk away with. Prepare fallback positions:

Amendments that might allow your representation to support your view.

If they can’t help you, ask for a referral to others who can.

Ask if there is some other way they can help you.

Ask if they can just vote no quietly, without making a speech.

Keep the visiting group small - one or two is ideal.

At the conclusion, summarize what went on and your understanding of the action the legislator agreed to take (or not to take). Restate your understanding of the staff’s role.

Don’t stay too long. Ten to fifteen minutes should be ample.

Send a thank you note for the meeting by US mail or messenger.

Track the bill or issue.

At the end of the session, write another thank you letter (if appropriate).

CONGRATULATE YOURSELF FOR BEING AN ADVOCATE FOR CHARTER SCHOOLS!

For assistance or any additional information please contact

Helen Wallquist at (916) 448-0995 or wallquist@canec.org.