Lobbying Your Legislator

Main Things To Remember:

PLAN what you are going to say. Identify 2-3 points you want to make and be brief and clear. Don’t waste their time by not knowing what to say. Dress appropriately.

INTRODUCE yourself as a member of NCFOM. If you are their constituent, mention it, if not, don’t. Be respectful and friendly.

STATE clearly and confidently that you would like them to pass a bill to license CPM’s in NC

ASK what their concerns are. Don’t preach or run off a bunch of facts. Facts won’t change their minds - find things that you and they agree on and then build on that logic

LISTEN to them. If they think home births are unsafe, ask why and what would change their minds. Work with logic rather than emotion. Now you can give them the information they need.

FIND things that you and they agree on and then build on that logic. Start with, “Would you agree that we all want safe births for mothers and babies?” Or, “Would you agree that all pregnant women should have access to the best maternity care possible?” They will have to say yes to that, then:

GIVE supporting points on why (See talking points)

THANK them to talking with you and REITERATE what you both agree on.

LEAVE them with the hand out(s.) Send a follow-up thank you note. Keep up contact.

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