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Respect the institution
Respect the government, the legislature, the
governor’s office, the
political/legislative process. It may not be perfect;
but belittling it, rather than working
to change it, will not make it more effective.
Respect the position if not the person
Voters
elected legislators. They may not all
meet one’s personal standards for being a legislator, nor will
they necessarily hold the "right" view on the
vital issues; but treat each legislator with respect.
Know and use legislators’ proper titles – senator,
representative, governor – and
address written correspondence appropriately
When speaking
to a legislator, let
the situation dictate the form of address. While one
may be on a first name basis in an
informal setting, in public a legislator should be addressed
with his or her formal title.
Attack the issue, never the person |
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When calling on government officials, dress appropriately
Formal meetings call
for professional (business) attire, as do appearances
before committees.
Know the issues, the pros and the cons
Legislators are busy people,
and few have
time for long-winded explanations. Be able to explain
the matter at issue concisely and
clearly.
When dealing with the sponsor of a bill of interest, be
clear in expressing
concerns
Know the sponsor’s positions in order
to respond directly to them. Know
the points on which compromise will be acceptable.
Always thank the committee chair and
the committee
When testifying, thank the chair and committee for the
opportunity to present your position, even if they disagree
with your position. |
