AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training
January 22, 2009
AMCHP Advocacy training call
February 5th , 2009
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
How to make an appointment
Do homework in advance
Staff Matter
Introduce Yourself
Educate
January 22, 2009
Do Your Homework
Try to research your member.
Past positions and actions regarding the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant.
Help them understand what it means for the state.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Staff Matter
Staff members are consulted on the day-to-day decisions.
Regular access to the Congressman or Senator.
End Goal: Having your idea considered.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Introduce Yourself
Who you are.
What you do.
What you want them to do?
Don’t overwhelm with talk or materials.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Educate
What exactly is the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant?
How is it funded?
What does it do to help? Stories are good.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Materials AMCHP can provide
An official ‘ask” sheet
Specific state profile
The MCH Pyramid of services
Other materials
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Meeting Tips
Be flexible.
Be ready to move.
Call ahead if you are running late.
Remember, you are the “expert”
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Follow Up
The success or failure of a meeting is determined almost entirely by what you do after the meeting.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Follow Up Tips
Thank You note.
Provide requested information.
Brief your network on the ground as to the delegation’s positions and if appropriate, urge them to contact the staff as well.
AMCHP Legislative Briefing & Training January 22, 2009
Follow Up Tips
Share the delegation’s positions with the officials in your agency.
Consider writing a Letter to the Editor.
Invite your member to visit.
Ongoing relationship.