From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Lobby / Lobbying A group seeking to influence the passage or defeat of legislation. Originally the term referred to persons frequenting the lobbies or corridors of legislative chambers to speak to lawmakers. The definition of a lobby and the activity of lobbying is a matter … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms K Street / Gucci Gulch Colloquialisms for Washington, DC, lobbyists. K Street is taken from K Street NW in Washington, DC, where many lobbying firms are located. K Street is definitely “inside the Beltway.” Pork Party House: Where DC insiders go for taxpayer-subsidized fun Gucci … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Capitol / Capitol Hill Map / National Mall (Click here for Google map) “The Capitol” is the United States Capitol Building, the building in which Congress meets. The Capitol is located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. (“The Capitol” is not “the Capital” and Capitol … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Petition A request or plea sent to one or both chambers from an organization or private citizens’ group asking support of, or opposition to, particular legislation or favorable consideration of a matter not yet receiving congressional attention. Petitions are referred to appropriate committees. Petitions are … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Pair / Logrolling photo credit: dno1967b A pair is a voluntary, informal arrangement that two lawmakers, usually on opposite sides of an issue, make on recorded votes. In many cases the result is to subtract a vote from each side, with no effect on the … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Executive Session / Executive Business / Secret Session photo credit: glasseyes view Executive Session (1) A meeting of a Senate or House committee (or occasionally of either chamber) that only its members may attend. Witnesses regularly appear at committee meetings in executive session – for … Read more
As an advocate, you must learn to draft effective one-page summaries that concisely and effectively summarizes your issue, provides relevant talking points and information on the status of a bill, and has your contact information. photo credit: mrbill An effective one-pager includes several critical pieces of information: the issue, background on the issue, status, and … Read more
Given the frantic pace that typically takes place on Capitol Hill, it is important to ensure that your meetings are as effective as possible. While it is only natural to desire to meet with a member of Congress, do not become disappointed if you meet with staff instead. Lawmakers rely heavily on their staff out … Read more
It is no secret that your message can be the lifeblood of your advocacy activities. Once you have decided upon a message, it is imperative that you refine it. photo credit: HellN The process of honing your message involves identifying, developing and refining the most compelling arguments, facts, examples and anecdotes. Take into consideration hot … Read more
When you are involved in a legislative event, it can be helpful to understand a few key tips that can help things to go much more smoothly. First, introductions to policymakers should be brief. Lobbyists often make the mistake of speaking too long in introductions while attempting to do a suitable job. An effective introduction … Read more