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It’s only 45 days, but Utah lawmakers have big plans for the 2018 Legislative Session. With more than 1,200 bills filed and more than $500 million in additional money to allocate, this legislative session is already breaking records. Sure, we’re nearly halfway through the session, but that doesn’t mean you don’t still have time to make your voice heard and make a difference in the decisions made on Capitol Hill.
You don’t need to have connections to have an influence on the political process, all you need is dedication and a little education. Remember, not all leaders are elected; participation in the legislative process by everyday citizens is a hallmark of our republic.
Here are some tips to help you on your way to becoming a successful citizen lobbyist.
1. Get up to speed on the issues – We’re three weeks into this legislative session and things are already moving fast. Luckily, the state has a great website for getting you up to speed on everything you need to know. Utah’s legislative website, le.utah.gov, has information on all of the bills filed, where they’re at in the legislative process, and audio and video records of discussions had during committee hearings and floor debates. You can even enter your email address on the bill page to track bills you’re most interested in.
When it comes to the top priorities of the business community, the Salt Lake Chamber has already done a lot of homework for you. Every week the Chamber puts out its 38-15-1 Legislative Update. What’s 38-15-1? In Utah, in order for a bill to become law, it needs at least 38 votes in the House, 15 votes in the Senate and one signature from the governor. The Chamber’s 38-15-1 Legislative Updates feature highlights from the previous week, updates on the Chamber’s priority votes, bills worth watching and tips on ways to take action. To sign up for these updates visit: slchamber.com/38-15-1
2. Make a plan – Now that you know what bills are before our legislators, it’s time to focus in on the issues that matter to you most. Use the calendar on the state’s website to find out when committee hearings are being held and when your bills are up for debate on the floor. 3. Contact your legislator - This may sound like a no-brainer, but a majority of Utahns don’t know who their representatives are. You can easily find that information on the state’s website, le.utah.gov. Now that you’re up to speed on the issues facing the legislature this session, contact your legislator and those who may be behind the bills you’re most concerned about and let them know where you stand on the issue.
One of the quickest ways to reach out to legislators is a quick email or letter. Make sure you refer to bills by their number, title and sponsor. Use your own words and stay away from canned emails and form letters. Be sure to provide substance to your opinions. Finally, include your name and contact info.
But, they don’t call it lobbying for nothing. Waiting in the lobby outside of the office or legislative chamber may be one of the best ways to reach your legislator and get a few minutes of one-on-one time. That said, with Utah’s lawmakers as busy as they are during the short 45-day session, it might be best to try to set an appointment before just showing up.
4. Participate in committee hearings – You’ve done your homework, made a plan, contacted your legislators and now it’s time to really make yourself heard. Committee hearings are where bills live or die. Often, by the time a bill hits the floor for a vote, the decisions have already been made and it’s too late to make a difference.
At most committee hearings, anyone who wants to make a public comment for or against a bill can sign up to speak. This is your prime chance to get in on the debate, to voice your concerns and suggest changes before the committee takes any action and before the bill is brought to the attention of the House and Senate for debate and a final vote. Being prepared on your topic and having a strong appeal can influence your legislators. Remember, legislators are elected to represent the people, and if they want to get re-elected they should want to listen to the concerns of their constituents.
The transition times between committee hearings can be an excellent opportunity to catch a legislator for some quick one-on-one time. Don’t be afraid to approach them for a polite conversation.
Side Note: The transition times between committee hearings can be an excellent opportunity to catch a legislator for some quick one-on-one time. Don’t be afraid to approach them for a polite conversation.
5**. Share the word –** Social media is one of the most contemporary strategies for getting your voice heard. By explaining bills, posting your concerns and even reaching out to members of the media and legislature online, you can spread the word and help control the narrative. Not everyone has the time, or the drive, to read the bills themselves. So educating your social network on the important issues facing the state can give them a reason to get involved in the conversation—turning your one voice into a multitude of voices.
Once you spend some time on the floor, you’ll find that legislators are always on their phones and most of the time on their social feeds. Find their twitter accounts and let them know how you feel. Here are a few important accounts to follow to get you started: @utahreps, @utahsenate, @saltlakechamber, @govherbert.
