Unit 6 Legislative Process

How a Law is Made  Idea for a bill  Drafting of bills  Introduction of bills  Reference to committee  Consideration by first House  Consideration by second House  Concurrence in amendments  Enrollment, ratification, and publication  Authorization-Appropriation Process

Strategies for Success in Policy-making  Choose your issue to pursue Look at the big picture Frame the issue adequately and concisely Develop and use networks Assess the timing Know and understand opposition (opposing views) Stay focused Respond quickly Collaborate Be prepared to take risks

Where to get involved  Workplace  Local agencies and organizations  Coalitions and committees  State agencies  State General Assembly  Congress

Build an infrastructure  Identify key contacts  Become “the expert”  Educate everyone, especially legislators  Communicate daily  Promote involvement

How to Get Involved Write letters –Studies have shown that as few as 5 letters to a delegate influence their vote Place phone calls –Legislators pay attention to constituent lines Stay in contact with legislators Call undecided legislators in key areas Always stay positive and “be friendly” Join committees and coalitions Get on lists

Meet with a Legislator The best time is in their home district Send a brief letter ahead of the meeting –List issues you want to discuss – Be concise Don’t leave without a follow-up plan – Make you and your expertise available Make your name interchangeable with the issue

Steps to Conflict Resolution in Policy Making  Determine whose conflict it is  Identify a common denominator  Set a climate of trust  Separate the people from the problem  Stay in the present & future  Stick to the topic at hand  Brainstorm options  Develop an objective criteria for evaluating options  Look for consensus

This is Your Government  Start small and work your way into the system Go to nursing general assembly day Join the Legislative Coalition of NC Nurses Attend conferences Research legislation you are interested in Run for local office Get on state committees