Sports metaphors often work their way into talk about the legislative process. March Madness seems like an appropriate description of the next phase of session. The house of origin cutoff is March 9, when the bills that make it through move to the opposite chamber to repeat the committee hearing process. At that point, they have a brief two and a half weeks to get through the hearings before the following cutoff deadline. Additionally, March Madness brings the next revenue forecast (March 17) and our first look at the Legislature’s budget proposals. After that, it’s a full-court press in the race to the finish line on April 25.

We recognize it can be a lot to track and field. That’s why we encourage you to use the resources provided in our Legislative Bulletin, on our website, and from our weekly Hot Sheet to find the latest information and to help you knock it out of the park during your conversations with legislators.

Advocacy isn’t a spectator sport

Last week, this column emphasized the importance of the city voice in the legislative process. Being a strong city advocate means getting your head in the game and not sitting on the sidelines. The only way to be heard is by “getting out there” and talking with your legislators.

At each stage of the legislative process, the collective city voice becomes more and more important. Make sure you are in the game. As you contact legislators about policy issues, don’t forget to mention city budget priorities. Recently we shared this letter with legislative budget leaders that covers all the bases. We also encourage you to have a game plan and message these priorities in meetings with your legislators.

City budget priorities:

• Maintain state revenue sharing with cities.
• Fully fund the Public Works Assistance Account (aka the Public Works Trust Fund).
• Provide the necessary funding to support any adopted police reforms and fund mandated police training requirements.
• Back efforts to ensure housing stability with rental and mortgage assistance programs.
• Support a statewide approach to correct fish-blocking culverts with financial assistance to fix locally owned culverts.
• Recognize new GMA planning requirements with adequate funding support for cities to take on these new responsibilities.

Key plays to improve your game

Remember that good players use a few key plays to succeed. Here are some slam dunks you can use when talking to legislators:

• City leaders are a trusted voice. Remind them that you know your community and you represent what your residents want.
• Cities are the economic backbone of the state. Our state’s robust economy is driven by the health of our cities—investing in cities provides a good return to the state.
• There is no “I” in team. We are all in this together. Cities and the state are on the same team when it comes to providing the programs and services our residents want and need. We aren’t on opposing teams so let’s work together to do what’s best for everyone.

All team players can use a little coaching from time to time. If you have a question about a particular bill, or want assistance determining how best to talk to your legislator, don’t hesitate to touch base with the Government Relations team. We are ready and willing to help you step up to the plate.