What Is It?

Lobbying is taking action to influence legislative decisions at the local, state, or federal level-whether directed toward elected officials on the city council, in the state legislature, or in Congress or toward the public to get it to express its point of view on specific legislation to elected officials. Lobbying can take many forms, including proposing, endorsing, or opposing legislation; meeting with lawmakers to urge their support; developing materials for allies and constituents; and providing testimony for or against pending legislation. 

Why Use It?

Because it can yield results: Legislation can require public institutions (schools, hospitals, government agencies, etc.) and private businesses (banks, insurance companies, health maintenance organizations) to act in ways to promote the public’s health and welfare. For example, legislation could require that all public and private hospitals have a free care policy that meets specified standards, including informing staff and patients about the policy. Legislation can also prohibit actions that are harmful to the public. For example, legislation could prohibit the operation of highly polluting equipment in localities with significant levels of air pollution and childhood asthma.

When to Use It?

Offensively to propose legislation because change is needed, the time is right, and you have public support behind you.
Defensively to defeat legislation that will harm your constituency and stall or reverse progress on your issues.
Vigilantly to protect progress as opponents will often propose legislation to undo what you gained in another forum.