Grassroots: Effective Strategies for Influencing Public Policy National Pawnbrokers Association July 8, 2008

Here’s what we’ll cover: Developing a legislative agenda Participating in town halls Site visits Office meetings Committee hearings & work sessions Letters & Telephone communications Using the media

The All-purpose Agenda Develop a broad policy statement Develop priority talking points –Provide options for individuals –Legal Reform Consider how your agenda translates to each arena in which you work (local, federal, state)

The All-purpose Agenda “The Anywhere Organization believes that adequate and affordable health care is important to all citizens. To ensure our member companies can offer the best possible options to their employees, we encourage…” –Greater options for individuals to choose the coverage that best meets individual needs and circumstances. –Efforts to make health care affordable to small businesses and the self-employed. –Medical malpractice and other legal reforms that will make health care more affordable and accessible.

Participating in town halls Be prepared –Know bill numbers –Research legislator’s position Conveying your message –Use examples

Site Tours Securing an appointment Setting the agenda Preparing pre-visit materials Effective Follow-up strategies Media

Office Meetings Securing an appointment Time sensitivities Preparing a fact sheet Personal experience stories Group size Follow-up activities Building relationships with personal staff

Committee Hearings Building relationships with committee staff Work sessions vs. public hearings Delivery of testimony Appropriate use of handouts Effective follow-up strategies

Advocacy Letters & s Addressing Correspondence Constructing an effective advocacy letter Who should receive your letter?

Telephone Calls Know who you are calling Be prepared! Explain your position in a concise manner Ask for a commitment

Print Media Editorial Board meetings Opinion/Editorials –Facts and personal stories Effectively using letters to the editor –Timeliness –Flexibility Press Releases The value of getting to know “beat” reporters

Electronic Media You are prepared! Limit your comments to no more than three points Stick to short sentences Use numbers sparingly Look the interviewer squarely in the face Relax!

A few closing thoughts... Be honest, build trust Make sure facts are accurate Speak in positive terms Choose your words with care Cultivate unlikely champions Listen carefully Maintain realistic expectations Relax and have fun!

Questions ?? Renee Radcliff Sinclair (425) (206)