Take Action
Welcome to the World of Advocacy!
Most people do not bother to speak up, so those that do have a disproportionate influence.
Eight Reasons You Are Needed to Call or Write Your Legislators
1. Speak up on behalf of children and adults at risk.
2. Statewide changes benefit hundreds of thousands of people.
3. 5-10 calls or letters gets your legislator's attention.
4. Legislators try to reflect your views.
5. We do not want good legislation defeated and bad bills enacted.
6. "Grassroot" calls and letters are effective and essential.
7. Your silence is counterproductive.
8. Postive reinforcement to legislators through calls and letters to recognize and appreciate good work.
How a Bill Gets Passed
1. Policy committee: First stop for most bills--assigned to committee that covers the general issue area. They ask: "Is it a good idea?" "Is it a priority for the state?"
2. Fiscal committee: Bills must stop here if they will cost more than $50,000 to implement. They ask: "Can we afford it?" "Is it a priority for the state?"
3. Rules Committee: This committee decides what bills should be scheduled for debate by the entire House. They ask: "Should this issue come up for a vote before the whole House?" "Is it a priority for the state?"
4. Vote by the Full House: A bill must receive a majority vote. If it passes, it is sent over to the Senate. They ask: "Is it a priority for the state?" "Is there popular support for this bill?"
5. Senate Bills: Follow same steps as 1-4 in the House.
6. Action by the Governor: The Governor has three choices:
- Sign the bill into law.
- Veto all or part of the bill.
- Allow the bill to become law without his signature.
Legislative Hotline
1-800-562-6000
Find your Legislative District
Contact your Representatives:
Subscribe to Common Voice Bulletins - your source for up-to-date information on legislative isses concerning children & family issues, including Mental Health
For more information on mental health issues for children and adults, here are some additional sites for you to check out:
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill