One of my favorite days of the year is Lobby Day in Madison. It gives me a chance to visit a beautiful city with like minded people and visit the offices of our individual Legislators. We are good at it. It’s been said that our Legislators love when ABATE of Wisconsin - bikers - are in the building. We are organized, well-spoken, and don’t ask for money like other groups that visit. We spend a lot of time preparing for this day. Buses need to be scheduled, ABATE Central needs to be booked at a hotel, and Steve and the Legislative committee need to decide as early as the fall what topics we need to bring to the attention of our elected representatives. It’s a daunting task, but well worth the effort. Then it’s up to us. All of the preparation goes by the wayside if we don’t show up, visit our Legislator’s offices and let them know what we are concerned about. This year in Madison we had to introduce ABATE of Wisconsin to some newly elected Representatives and Senators. First impressions do make a difference and from what I’ve heard we were well received. Now that we’ve met the people we elected, let’s keep the conversation going. Contact your Legislators when there are issues you feel strongly about. They like to hear from their constituents and get feedback from them before they cast their vote. Volunteer to work at some of their local events. Remember that conversations and relationships start at the local level. Several of my local politicians have now moved up to offices in Madison, and some staff members in Madison have moved on to become Legislators.
Can’t wait until next year.
“Cuz”