Reproductive Health & Rights Lobby Day 2010
Monday, February 1st
Olympia, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues will we be lobbying on?
1. Our main issue this year is preserving funding for family planning services. The economic crisis continues to cripple the state budget. But we know that funding family planning saves money in the long run- and improves people's lives.
2. Washington state has close to a $3 billion budget deficit this year. We’ll be working with lawmakers and coalition partners to introduce a balanced revenue package that can help fill the budget gap.
3. Finally, we are working proactively on a bill aimed at creating more accuracy, transparency, and privacy at limited service pregnancy centers.
How do I get to Lobby Day?
We provide transportation to Lobby Day, with buses leaving from and returning to Bellingham, Everett, Seattle, and Tacoma. The bus is a great low-stress way to travel and meet other pro-choice folks at the same time. We will also be organizing carpools from other locations based on your needs. In the past, we've had carpools from Whidbey Island, Bellevue/Eastside, Bremerton, and Port Townsend. You are also welcome to drive on your own.
What is the Legislative Reception?
A coalition of women's groups will host a Legislative Reception for elected officials and our citizen lobbyists. The Reception will take place in the the Governor's Mansion! It's your chance to meet and mingle with legislators from around the state in a fun setting. We'll provide snacks and beverages. The Reception will take place right after Lobby Day.
Can I attend both Lobby Day and the Reception?
Absolutely! We encourage you to stay around after Lobby Day. The Reception is a unique opportunity to have informal talks with the people who represent you. You can attend one, or the other, or both. We just ask that you register beforehand so that we know how many people to expect. Regarding transportation, some buses will leave early to take home anyone who can't stay for the reception, and some buses will stay behind to take home everyone from the Reception.
What do Team Captains do?
Each district will have a Team Captain to direct people, prepare teams to lobby, lead groups to their appointments, and make sure everyone feels comfortable. Team Captains generally live in the district they are leading. A Team Captain usually has lobbied before or has experience with Planned Parenthood. If you are interested in being a Team Captain, we'd love to have you! Please email us at ppactionwa@ppgnw.org. We'll provide you with extra training and information.
Can I get any training before Lobby Day?
We thought you'd never ask. We provide many trainings prior to Lobby Day and encourage you to attend. In past years, people who attended trainings felt more confident and prepared to lobby. We give you the skills to be a great citizen lobbyist, provide background on legislators, and brief you on the issues. Plus- we always have food. Check out the sidebar to the right for a list of our upcoming trainings.
What if the weather is bad?
Unless the Capitol is closed, Lobby Day will still happen. If there are any changes to Lobby Day that will affect you, we will send out an email and post information on our website about the changes. You will also have a contact person at Planned Parenthood to call or email with questions.
How can I stay updated?
We send regular updates about Lobby Day, as well as other info and events, to our Planned Parenthood Action Network members. If you aren't already signed up, do so today. Sign up online.
Click to Sign Up for Lobby Day 2010
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