Column: Flexing Your Political Influence
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2009
The following is a column written by Representative Mike Burgess (R-Topeka).
Flexing Your Political Influence
By Rep. Mike Burgess, 51st House District
Happy Birthday Kansas! January 29th marks the 148th anniversary of our state being accepted into the union. In light of this special occasion I thought this week we would focus on how you can flex your political influence – just like our forefathers did in making Kansas a free state.
Each session Kansas Legislators consider, debate, and vote on hundreds of bills and resolutions. Some receive a good amount of public attention. Others quietly make their way through the process. And in the end we hope to put in place good public policy that makes our state stronger and serves her people better.
An important part of the law-making process is the involvement of Kansas citizens like you. I and my colleagues rely on your input and opinion to make sound decisions. Although we may not always agree on the issue at hand, I believe understanding all sides is critical.
Many of you contact me through e-mail. Others call or visit me at the Statehouse. And I meet many of you face to face at public events and forums. I truly value your insight. But there are other ways you can get involved with the governance of Kansas and perhaps have an even larger influence on elected leaders.
Each bill introduced is assigned to a legislative committee made up of Republican and Democrat lawmakers. The first big hurdle a bill must overcome is getting a public hearing held on it. It is up the committee’s chairman whether to hold the hearing. You may be able to influence the chairman’s decision by sending him an e-mail or letter explaining why you support the bill and asking him or her to hold a hearing.
Once a hearing is scheduled, sign up to testify at it. This usually involves contacting the committee secretary and asking to do so. He or she will explain all of the particulars on the hearing such as where and when the hearing will be held; how long you will be allowed to talk; and whether committee members plan on asking questions.
Can’t imagine getting up and speaking to 20 legislators plus a room full of people? You also can submit written testimony. The secretary can explain when your testimony needs to be turned in and how many copies you will need to provide. Either way, I can tell you from personal experience, committee members are grateful to hear from the citizens who will be directly impacted by the bill they are considering.
You also can get involved with a group or organization already working on an issue. Many times they need volunteers to visit with lawmakers one on one. Other times they might ask you to help make telephone calls to voters, urging them to call their legislator. Or write postcards or attend a rally at the Statehouse. Their goal is to bring attention to their issue and your participation can make a difference.
How much you get involved in flexing your political influence is up to you. But with well-thought out reasons and examples, you may be able to convince a legislator to support your stance on an issue and help you persuade other lawmakers.
As always it is an honor to serve you and our neighbors in the 51st House District. Please call or email me when you’re ready to flex your political influence.
Rep. Mike Burgess
51st House District
785/296-7632
Mike.Burgess@house.ks.gov
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Mike Burgess serves north and west Shawnee County and southern Wabaunsee County, including Alma, Eskridge, Harveyville, Rossville, Silver Lake, Willard and a little bit of Topeka.