Lobby for the Hobby
10 Tips to Effectively Lobby Your Lawmakers
After hearing about everything that goes on in politics and government, for many people lobbying has become a dirty word. However; it's important to remember that our system of representative democracy was created to give citizens a voice in the operations of government. Getting involved in the political process and staying vigilant are the best ways you as a hobbyist can help keep the automotive hobby thriving and protect it from unfair laws and restrictions. Joining the SEMA Action Network is a great first step in getting informed about the issues, with Driving Force, Legislative Action Alerts, and the SAN website all at your disposal. The next step is learning how to put these resources to good use. The following are some tips that will allow you to most effectively lobby your elected officials:

1.
Develop and Maintain Relationships with Your Legislators and Their Staff. Make contact and develop productive relationships with individual legislators. It is the most effective form of grassroots lobbying. It's also important to develop a relationship with their staff who monitor ongoing legislative and community initiatives.

2.
Educate Legislators about Our Hobby and Our Issues. Educate your legislator about the hobby and emphasize the positive impact it has on the community.

3.
Maintain a Positive Attitude. Develop a positive relationship with your legislator. The next time an enthusiast-related issue comes up, that same legislator may be needed to support your cause.

4.
Stay Informed. Keep up-to-date on SAN Action Alerts, newspaper articles, and hearing notices. Share this information with fellow enthusiasts.

5.
Get involved in the Community. Join with other community groups to build positive exposure. Holding charity runs and fundraisers provide a great opportunity to show local residents and politicians that auto clubs are a positive community force.

6.
Build Relationships with the Local Media. Contact local newspapers and radio or TV stations to publicize car shows, charity events, etc.

7.
Invite Officials to Participate in Your Events. Give legislators a platform to reach an audience of constituents.

8.
Build an Automotive Coalition. Create coalition’s to add strength in numbers and ensure that the rights of ALL vehicle enthusiasts are represented. Actively participating in regional and statewide councils will develop a unified message to lawmakers. These types of
pro-hobbyist groups can be an influential political force.

9.
Spread the Word. Tear off this page of Driving Force and take it to your next club meeting, cruise night or post it on your online forums. Share this information with other enthusiasts who are willing to help lobby for the hobby.

10.
Register to Vote. Exercise your right to support pro-hobby candidates. Constituents are an elected official's number one priority. Without you and your vote of support, they would not be in office, so make sure you're registered and get out and vote.

To download a copy of the SAN Lobbying Guide, please visit our website at http://www.semasan.com
For more information, contact Ben Burdick at benb @sema.org or 202/783-6007, ext. 38.