Don't be shy, contact your legislator

Photo by Tom Foley

From M, winter 2003

A unique budget proposal, a challenging state budget outlook, and numerous new legislators give University supporters a chance to make a special impact this year. By becoming part of the University of Minnesota Legislative Network, volunteers will be informed of important legislative votes and given tips on making effective contacts.

With a new governor and more than one in three legislators new to their positions, constituents need to tell the U of M's story. "We have to get the University's message in front of them," says Deborah Hopp (B.A. '75), volunteer president of the University of Minnesota Alumni Association. "Make it brief, but tell a story about the University, the impact it has had on your life, how important it is to the overall health of the state, and the value you place on its support."

Talking with legislators is vital, says former representative Peggy Leppik of Golden Valley. "It is very important to tell your legislators how you feel," she says. "Often it can be an affirmation of what they are already thinking. But there were times I received e-mails or letters from people who disagreed that made me think in another direction, especially if they shared a personal experience."

Leppik offers the following tips for effective contacts.

Get to know legislators personally. There should still be time in January and February to meet legislators, either privately or at town meetings. "It not only gives you a chance to get to know them, but it gives your legislator an opportunity to sound you out and size you up," she says. "Legislators know there are really thoughtful, concerned people out there who may not have surfaced in the campaign but who really have things to contribute."

Briefly share your personal experiences. "First, it really personalizes a large institution and a big, fat area of the budget. It helps legislators understand and empathize with the outcome of that funding," Leppik adds. "More practically, when legislators are discussing an issue, they often draw upon the personal experiences of their constituents to reinforce their arguments. So if you've got a good story, it could become a really good tool."

Be brief and respectful. "Just give the salient points and offer to fill in the details if the legislator is interested," she advises. "You can be discounted if you shoot from the hip on every issue or are disrespectful in the way you present yourself."

Take advantage of e-mail. "Depending on the legislator, e-mail is very useful," Leppik says. "I found it a great way to keep up with mail and it is inexpensive."

Include your name, address, phone number, and e-mail so legislators will know you live in their district and can follow up with you. "Someone who takes the time to write a personal letter or e-mail gets noticed a lot more than a form letter or a telephone calling campaign," says Leppik.

With Minnesota facing a budget shortfall of $4.5 billion, University administrators understand they cannot ask for large increases and new programs. The University initially formulated a request that was the smallest in a decade, and that was designed to be a 50-50 partnership with the state of Minnesota. The state would put in some new money and the University would garner an equal amount through reallocation of its resources and a 4.5 percent tuition increase for students. That approach was well received by lawmakers, according to University President Bob Bruininks, but the projected deficit has grown since it was formulated.

The task facing University supporters is to convince state lawmakers that investing in the University is both prudent and essential to the success of the state. "It is important to recognize the absolutely phenomenal impact this University has on every corner of our state," Bruininks said. "This is not going to be a very strong state in 15 or 20 years if it turns its back on this great University."

The U contributes to the health of the state in many ways: On its four campuses, the University of Minnesota is teaching the next generation of leaders. The University received a record $527 million for research in 2002 from non-state funding--research that creates jobs and produces new patents and technology. Through the U of M Extension Service and dozens of other collaborations, the University is engaged with communities statewide to address complex challenges facing the state.

By joining the University of Minnesota Legislative Network, you will be one of more than 3,900 alumni, faculty, staff, and friends who share an active commitment to higher education and the University of Minnesota. Network volunteers make a big impact with a small amount of effort by simply contacting legislators and telling them why the U is important to them personally. The network keeps its volunteers informed of the latest public policy issues affecting the U and sends out alerts as important votes approach.

Get more info on the U of M Legislative Network, at http://www.supporttheu.umn.edu/. To find your elected officals, see http://umn.e-actionmax.com/districtfinder.asp.