You can play an active role in the legislative process at local, state and national levels. WIBA and KIBC are here to help guide you through the process. While we have lobbyists who work for our members, you can also become an advocate of independent business in three distinct ways:

Lobby your legislator

The Kansas Legislature convenes annually on the second Monday in January and traditionally concludes in May. Legislators consider hundreds of bills and several of them impact the operations of your Kansas business. Hundreds of lobbyists converge on Topeka to advocate their special interests, so it is imperative that you as a business leader participate in the process as much as possible.

Legislators are most interested in the opinions of their constituents. The most effective legislative communications come from local residents whom the legislator knows personally and to whom the legislator is locally accountable. While the final votes are cast in the capitol building, some of the most effective lobbying is done at or from back home.

The following link contains some suggestions that may be useful in assuring that your local views are heard by your elected official.

Help your favorite candidates

ü Make contributions, either direct or in-kind.
ü Assist in fundraising efforts or host other social events.
ü Participate in phone banks, door-to-door canvassing or other volunteer activities.
ü Serve as poll watchers and engage in other Get-Out-The-Vote efforts.
ü Assist in the placement of signs on personal or business property.
ü Circulate nomination petitions.
ü Send postcards, mailings or other communications on personal stationary or campaign stationary.
ü Conduct voter registration drives for candidates.
ü Hold positions on committees for candidates, e.g., finance committee, public relations, etc.

Join the WIBA/KIBC government affairs committee
All members are welcome and encouraged to participate in the WIBA/KIBC Government Affairs Committee. Simply email your request to membership@wiba.org or call our office at 316-201-3264.