Other Legislative news

Lawmakers want to hear from you

Sen. John Gleason, second from left, with MEA lobbyists, left to right, Dave Stafford, David Michelson and Don Noble

Every decision that impacts public school employees is made by an elected or appointed official. Because of this, it is very important that you get involved and stay involved in the political process.

Often, MEA leaders and staff encourage members to contact state representatives and senators. Sometimes, members ask us how best to communicate with legislators.

Sen. John Gleason, D-Flushing, shared tips for constit-uent relations when he attended an August training of MEA member-leaders in Flint. Gleason said he needs to hear from people who live in his area—and, he warned them not to send e-mails because e-mail contact isn’t his favorite way to interact with constituents.

He also offered the following four suggestions:

1.“You must engage the political process.”

2.“Your voice should be just as strong as those who don’t think much of you.”

3.“We don’t need anger, we need agitation. I need to hear from you before the process is complete.”

4.“The best defense is a strong offense. Get on with it.”

Updated: September 21, 2009 11:07 AM