Which lawmakers are Key Contacts reaching out to?
Key Contacts reach out to Members of Congress who are influential in the healthcare, labor and tax issue debates; occupy positions of leadership in Congressional Committees; and/or might align with small business interests during critical small business votes. The list of lawmakers includes members of both the U.S. House of Representative and the U.S. Senate.
What issues will Key Contacts champion?
The issues are based on NFIB's legislative agenda, as well as the current political environment. Given the volatile political atmosphere in Washington, the issues are subject to change at any time. Right now, Key Contacts are focusing on healthcare, labor, energy and tax issues.
How much of my time is required?
As an entrepreneur, your time is valuable, and this program is conducted with those constraints in mind. No more than a few hours of your time will be needed to get caught up on strategies and begin communicating to Congress.
Will the NFIB staff help me during the process?
The NFIB Federal Public Policy Team works closely with you throughout the entire process and takes into account your experience and comfort level. We inform and update you about legislative issues, provide you with Congressional outreach tips and are accessible to answer any questions you may have.
What if I have not supported or voted for my targeted lawmaker?
That is OK! We are not looking for you to become a supporter or vote for your lawmaker. In most cases, Key Contacts find that they disagree on several issues with their lawmaker. The purpose of the Key Contact Network is developing a partnership. Key Contacts provide lawmakers with a trusted sounding board, valuable grassroots opportunities and a good faith working relationship with NFIB. In turn, we expect lawmakers to listen to the small business perspective and work with Key Contacts in the District and on the Hill on policies consistent with NFIB principles.
What activities do Key Contacts engage in?
Key Contacts are invited to engage in a variety of activities during the year including participating on conference calls and teleforums; attending town hall meetings; calling or visiting with their lawmaker and/or Congressional staff; interacting with NFIB staff on a regular basis and hosting a lawmaker at their place of business.