Making Your Case.

This booklet offers techniques and insights to assist the lobbying efforts of Minnesota advocates of individuals with disabilities. It begins by explaining lobbying and the legislative process. Suggestions for effective meetings with legislators are provided, along with ways to get an author for proposed legislation. The following sections discuss techniques for testifying before a committee, writing letters to legislators, and making telephone calls to legislators. Recommendations for lobbying days, rallies, petitions, and legislative receptions are also provided. The final sections describe the roles and responsibilities of various legislative staff, people who impact the legislative process, and interim activities that occur when the legislative session ends. Tip sheets are included that address key words advocates should know, types of questions advocates should be able to answer when lobbying, elements of a national campaign, organizing a campaign, and memorable quotes from legislators on successful lobbying efforts. (CR)