1. UNIT # 6 Taking Part in Government CHAPTER #17 Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media LESSON #1-2 Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy

2. -These are groups that share common ideas and attempt to sway government policy -They apply pressure to the government by: 1.Contributing to Campaigns 2.Giving Testimony at Hearings 3.Advertising 4.Writing Letters to Lawmakers 5.Staging Demonstrations -There are three types of interest groups: 1. Economic — who work to benefit business, labor and farms 2. Special Cause — who work for a particular issue such as the environment, women ’ s rights or gun control Page 1 Interest Groups UNIT # 6 Taking Part in Government CHAPTER #17 Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media LESSON #1-2 Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy

3. 3. Public — work for all Americans, at issues like political fairness or public health Page 2 (continued) UNIT # 6 Taking Part in Government CHAPTER #17 Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media LESSON #1-2 Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy Lobbying -Lobbyists make direct contact with members of Congress and their staffs for the purpose of influencing laws or regulations -Lobbyists get their name from the days when they would wait in lobbies of the Capital to talk to congressmen -Lobbyists have their own business or are hired by interest groups -They are often (however not always) former congressmen or members of the executive branch

4. -They have experience with, and friends in, Congress that helps them be resourceful and persuasive -There are about 15,000 lobbyist in D.C. -Lobbying also occurs in state capitals Page 3 (continued) UNIT # 6 Taking Part in Government CHAPTER #17 Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media LESSON #1-2 Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy -Lobbyist often meet with congressmen to explain their side of the story -Often if an interest group made a contribution to a politician ’ s campaign, their lobbyist are ensured a meeting -Lobbyist help interest groups apply pressure to the government Lobbying Methods

5. -Lobbyist can even be involved in the bill writing process -All lobbyist groups must register with the federal government -Limits have been placed on the type and amount of gifts congressmen can accept Page 4 (continued) UNIT # 6 Taking Part in Government CHAPTER #17 Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media LESSON #1-2 Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy