Nick Dauster, Center for Consumer and External Affairs, Department of State Health Services (Texas), 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756, (512) 458-7263, nicholas.dauster@dshs.state.tx.us

This presentation is designed to familiarize participants with the nuts and bolts of developing an effective legislative strategy on the state level. Each state has a unique political culture and history and every state legislative body has a distinct set of personalities and rules. However, the general concepts for working with legislators and their staff remain the same regardless of environment: 1. Building effective coalitions that can adapt to rapidly-changing circumstances. 2. Articulating a compelling goal. 3. Developing a strong legislative strategy, using all available resources. 4. Understanding the legislative process – and legislative timing. 5. Understanding the appropriations process. 6. Presenting information concisely in a way that makes a personal connection. 7. Understanding the central importance of personal relationships with legislators and their staff in the legislative process.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the importance of building strong and flexible coalitions.
• Recognize the importance of articulating a concrete goal and developing an appropriate legislative strategy.
• Recognize the importance of personal relationships in implementing a legislative strategy.
• Recognize the importance of learning the legislative process, including appropriations, and the time constraints faced by legislators and their staff.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.