LOBBY DAY 2012-NOT IN SPRINGFIELD!

Good afternoon. Earlier this week, the IPACE Executive Committee met to discuss Lobby Day in 2012. AFTER LISTENING TO A RECOMMENDATION FROM A SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE IPACE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND EXTENSIVE DISCUSSION, IT WAS UNANIMOUSLY DECIDED TO NOT HAVE LOBBY DAY IN SPRINGFIELD. Instead, our Lobbying will be done back home throughout the spring legislative session.

The rationale for the decision was based on several factors, most significantly the fact that Capitol Building is undergoing a major renovation that would have severely limited the access of our members to the Capitol and their legislators. During the 18 month construction project, there will be limited restroom facilities, the tunnel connecting the Stratton Building to the Capitol will be closed and there
will be limited entrances into the building. Additionally, the back Home lobbying, which we hope will begin in January, since the General Assembly does not come into session until the end of January, will
enable our members more time to meet with their legislators and express their concerns around our critical issues. The committee will be encouraging members to use exiting teams that consist of their Region Chair, Uniserv Director and Grass Roots Political Activist (GPA) to schedule and attend meetings.

There will be limited resources available, based upon need and upon request, to ensure that our members are unencumbered in their efforts to meet with their legislators. To assist members in their efforts, the Government Relations and Communications Departments will work to create fact sheets, and logistical materials to assist members in their efforts.

We are hopeful that this endeavor will result in a positive experience for our members and provide legislators with an opportunity to hear first-hand the interests and concerns of their constituents.

More information will follow in the weeks to come.

Jim Reed, Jr.

Director of Government Relations