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Member Advocacy

THE LEGISLATURE AND PUBLIC EDUCATION

• Why Politics?  Teachers and Education Staff Professionals frequently ask: “Why are we so active in politics and the Florida Legislature? In what way does politics and the Legislature affect us generally and me personally in the work that we do?"
  
  The answer: "Decisions that are made on the political level have a tremendous impact on all teachers, ESPs, students, and our schools in more ways that you can imagine." Can you name a few examples? (read more)

• How a Bill Becomes a Law : Florida has 40 Senators and 120 members of the House of Representatives. On average there are more than 2000 bills filed each session. 300-500 bills are education or education-related bills. Hundreds of people are involved in the lawmaking process in Florida. In specific, you need to know your local legislator(s), make contact with them and their aides in order to advance your issues.
  
  
• Effective Lobbying Techniques  The most important and effective lobbying is done in your legislator’s home district, during the months prior to the Legislative session. Make contact with his/her office to present your issues. Effective lobbying requires multiple contacts and follow-up. Tips for communicating with your legislator(s).
  
  
• Why should you testify at committee hearings? What do you need to know?
  A major share of legislative action happens in committee.

• Do you have questions about all of the Legislative lingo? You can find answers by checking this glossary of Legislative terms .
  
  
• Would you like to watch your Legislators in action but can't make the trip to Tallahassee? Click here to watch the Legislative video broadcast.    (available during the Legislative session)

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