Making Laws for AnimalsThe Legislative Process

• Some situations require concrete changes in the law

• Legitimization of animal protection issues

• Media coverage generates public dialogue in society

Why Work on Legislation?

The General Process of Lawmaking

What is the best option?

• Local – Counties, Cities, Townships, School boards

• State – State legislatures and Agencies

• Federal – US Congress and Federal Agencies with in the Commerce Clause

• Citizens Ballot Measure

What are the main obstacles to passing a bill?

TIME

ATTENTION

OPPOSITION

Lawmaking at the State Level

• 50 different state legislative sessions

• Over 140,000 bills introduced each year

• Average session lasts 5 months

Lawmaking at the Federal Level

• Two year sessions- longer process.

• About 10,000 bills per 2 year Congress

• Partisan, partisan, partisan

What helps pass legislation?

Preparation

Organization

Professionalism

Perseverance

Effectively Lobbying an Elected Official

Be honest, be kind, be professional, be short and concise, have facts and be sure to follow up!

Tips and Info in the “How to Be an Effective Citizen Lobbyist” handout.

3 Steps You Can Take Today

Register to Vote and GOTV

Know the names and phone numbers for your Members of Congress and State Legislators

Join the HSUS Facebook Page for your state for updates on legislation you can act on.