How to get to know lawmakers and let them know your industry matters
While people debate the original source of the quote, “No man's life, liberty or property are safe while the Legislature is in session,” as either Judge Gideon J. Tucker, in an 1866 court decision, or Mark Twain, no one debates the timeless nature of the warning. In fact, many would argue that the tenet so well-articulated in the mid-1800s is more relevant today than ever.
So what can you do to protect your business interests as Maine moves full swing into campaign season and the next legislative session? How do you engage in the process in a manner that is appropriate and effective? Here are some fundamental steps you can take to keep a finger on the pulse and help influence the outcome of legislation that could impact your business objectives.
Know your politician
Generally speaking, politicians by nature are passionate and gregarious people. They are invested in making things happen, and they value relationships with constituents above all others. You want to know your legislators before an issue of substance is presented. It's much more comfortable to establish a personal relationship prior to an issue brewing than after it has reared its head. The goals here are to know your legislator on a first-name basis, and have his or her contact information at the ready. They should also have your contact information so you are easy for them to reach.
If possible, prior to an issue emerging, spend some time walking your legislators, or legislative candidates, around your business. They do not need to know every detail about your business. Rather, talk to them about state policies that are important to the success of your business. Speak to success in your business in terms of being financially sound, providing you the ability to employ people. Also, talk about the various Maine vendors or suppliers with whom you do business so legislators are aware of the indirect impact your business has to your region's economy.
During election season candidates want to learn about their districts, and to be seen by employees in local businesses. They are seeking votes and developing campaign messages that will resonate with their voters.
Once elected, your goal is to become a source of information and advice to your local legislators.
Be an advocate
Once the Legislature is in session, issues emerge. This is where the advocacy comes in. This is where your messages move from facts about your business impacts to arguments about why a particular policy issue can hurt or help your business. Develop your arguments, explain the consequences a legislative proposal can have on your business. Your goal here is to educate your legislators so they can make informed decisions.
Your telephone call to your legislators will have a significant impact on them. If, in your conversation, you sense that the legislator is not committed to your position, amplify your message. Your employees, vendors and suppliers all have a stake in troublesome bills and they, too, can be educated and asked to contact the legislators, creating more grassroots support. Your goal here is to be sure your legislator knows that many constituents share your position.
Stay informed
You can review and track the 3,000 bills introduced each cycle at the Maine State Legislature website www.maine.gov/legis/. Realistically, membership in an advocacy organization and/or a relationship with a government relations attorney can accomplish this in a more cost-effective manner. These people constantly track legislation, apprise you of legislation that could impact your business, help you develop relationships with key policymakers, and help deliver your messages to the right people at the right time.
While “no man's life, liberty or property are safe while the Legislature is in session,” these are some basic tips to protect your business from the worst.
Andrea Cianchette Maker, a partner and co-leader of Pierce Atwood's government relations group, can be reached at amaker@pierceatwood.com
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments