1. Public Policy (info from N336)
Course of action chosen by public authorities to address a given problem
Problem = gap between reality and desired situation
Policies need public support and legislative support

2. Branches of U.S. Government
Executive: administers the laws
President
Cabinet
Legislative: makes the laws
Senate
House of Representatives
Judicial: interprets the laws
court system

3. Lobbying Opportunities
propose a bill
agenda setting within Congress
action at appropriate committee
encourage President to sign/veto
Note: The same ideas hold true at the state or local levels, targeting governors or mayors, etc. instead of the President

4. Developing Effective Policy
Document needs and define the problem
Develop a “grassroots” coalition of support
Draft a policy statement; get the issue on the agenda
Seek and gain support from relevant policy makers
Policy is:
adopted
implemented
monitored/evaluated
terminated?

5. Elements of National Nutrition Policy
Brainstorm:

6. How to locate proposed legislation?
Thomas Legislative Information
thomas.loc.gov
Federal Register
U.S State and Local Government Gateway
Specific government agencies, cities, states…

7. Group Assignment Find a piece of legislation relevant to your issue
Defend a pro or con position as assigned
Prepare a position paper that includes a summary of the bill/issue and your group’s position. (Due on the day of your presentation.)
Debate your position in class as assigned

8. Individual Assignment
Write a properly formatted business letter of support or opposition to a legislator on any bill/issue debated in class
Include:
Who you are
Facts
Your view
Your signature
Due Nov. 14