Checklist for Success in State Advocacy

In General:

• What will be included in the bill and what will it accomplish?

• What is the political climate in your state as it applies to the possible success of the effort?

• Do you need funding for this project? If so, how much?

• What is the breakdown of expenses (at least a one-year budget)?

Coalition/Grassroots:

• Which groups (both for- and nonprofit) are likely allies to this effort?

• Which groups (both for- and nonprofit) will likely oppose this effort and why?

• Is a coalition needed? Which groups are likely to join?

• Who has key contacts with legislators?

• Is a professional lobbyist needed? Where will the funding come from?

Legislative:

• What is the legislative process for your state?

• Who are the legislative leaders in your state (both Senate and Assembly)?

• What are the committees that this legislation will likely go through?

• Which legislators are on the committees of interest?

• Who is the committee chair(s)?

• Which legislators are likely to support this legislation?

• Which legislators are likely to oppose this legislation?

Administrative:

• Will the Governor likely be for or against this legislation?

• Does the Governor have line-item veto authority?

• Who are the key staffers in the Governor’s office?

• Which state department(s) will this legislation affect? Who are the directors/key staffs?