New Years resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep. In fact, some studies indicate that 80% of these resolutions are abandoned by February. In the end, only 8% of resolutions are carried to completion.These numbers might sound discouraging, but here’s a New Years resolution every conservative grassroots activist should be able to handle easily: resolve to be a part of passing good legislation in your state.
Like many people, you probably hear all about important pieces of legislation on the federal level. Getting involved on that scale is certainly possible, but it can be intimidating. If you’ve never engaged in direct grassroots legislative efforts, start small by influencing in your state. Make no mistake, state legislation is just as important as the big national stuff you hear about all the time on the news. For conservatives, passing good legislation at the state level is a very achievable goal. Twenty-nine of fifty state legislatures are completely Republican-controlled. Twenty-one of those states have Republican governors as well. It very well may be that these elected officials are just waiting for a conservative like you to demonstrate grassroots support for smart legislation.
It’s easy to get involved. If you have an idea for new legislation, take it to your state rep or senator if he’s conservative. If not, find another member with a reputation as a conservative. Be sure to do your research. See if other states have already tried the legislation you want and be ready to list the positive outcomes. There’s always strength in numbers, so consider recruiting other conservative friends to join your citizens’ campaign.
If there’s a bill already in motion that you want to support, there are still several ways to get involved. Set up meetings with state legislators to discuss why you support the bill. You’d be amazed how accessible many of them are. Rules will very from state to state, but find out what it takes to testify before a hearing at your state capitol. In many states, any citizen can speak his mind on legislation before a committee.
Don’t sit on the sidelines any more. Make a New Years resolution to influence good legislation in your state in 2021!
