Chapter’s Process For Proposing Legislation Begins
Do you have an idea for a planning bill? Got a way to improve the GMA?
The 2009 legislative session recently ended…which means…its time to start thinking about 2010!
In March 2008, the APA Washington Board adopted a Process for Proposing Legislation. The process begins with chapter members submitting ideas that they believe should be shepherded by the chapter in the next legislative session. The process includes a schedule, procedures, and criteria that the chapter follows in order to ensure that a proposal moves forward only if the substance – and the legislative conditions – are right.
The first step in the process begins now, with you!
If you have an idea that you think APA Washington should shepherd, now is the time to propose it. The Bill Proposal Form is designed to make it easy for you to submit an idea while asking you to give us enough information so that the Board can make an informed judgment.
In order to give plenty of time for preparations before the legislative session proposals need to be submitted by Wednesday, July 17. Please submit your proposal to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Additional Information
The Board is excited about this opportunity for direct and proactive engagement in the legislative process. At the same time, it also recognizes the challenges that championing any legislation brings.
The hurdles built into the legislative system are too high for the vast majority of bills that are introduced. However, a signature by the governor is not the only mark of success. Simply beginning an important discussion or reframing an existing one could represent an achievement for the chapter, as could bringing together interest or advocacy groups around a common good cause. There is risk involved as well: a failed effort or divisive proposal could damage the committee’s and the chapter’s credibility and diminish our influence over future issues.
Because of these challenges it is likely that the chapter will wind up moving forward with few, if any, proposals. However, in the right circumstances, an idea (your idea?) could make a real difference.
Again, to be considered for the 2010 legislative session, proposals need to be submitted by July 17 using the Bill Proposal Form. Please send the form, and any questions you have, to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).