1. Federal Policy as a tool for food systems change
By Emily Horton
Office of Congresswoman Chellie Pingree

2. Congresswoman Pingree
Owns Turner farm and Nebo Lodge
Served as State Senator and Majority Leader in Augusta
Elected to Congress in 2008 and is about to serve her 5th term
Serves on House Appropriations; Agriculture, Environment & Interior

3. My Role
Work on agriculture, fisheries & environmental issues & policy in Maine for Rep. Pingree
Serve as a liaison between Maine constituents and Washington

5. USDA Grants & Programs Examples of how we can advocate:
Create or change grant programs
Change funding allocation
Change language to better serve constituents
Write letters of support, invite officials to visit program sites, etc.

6. 3 policy points to consider
Relationships
Timing
Strategy

7. Relationships How many of you have reached out to a Congressional office before?
1. Information & resource sharing
Example: USDA grants and NOAA announcements
2. Data & story collecting
Example: Appropriation hearings,
success & challenges in Maine

8. Timing How many of you have reached out to an office when you didn’t need anything?
Try to form a relationship with staff before you have an ask
Ask to set up a meeting or coffee date to share your story & expertise and to learn about the staff’s role
In session/out of session plays a role

9. Strategy You are the expert
Be clear and concise with both the problem and solution
Limit the amount of asks (prioritize)
Do your homework- who are you talking to? What Committees are they on? What role do they have to make change?
Be persistent & follow up

10. Questions & Contact www.pingree.house.gov Emily.horton@mail.house.gov
( Maine)
(Washington)