Photo courtesy National Trust for Historic Preservation

Advocating for Preservation10 Essential Steps for Effective Lobbying

Look up the pertinent members of the House of Representatives and Senate to find out what types of historic resources are in their districts, what type of interests they have, what committees they sit on, and where they stand on preservation-related legislation. Also research what your state, tribal, and local preservation organizations are doing.

1. Do your research.

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The best time to lobby is when a representative or senator is considering writing or sponsoring a bill that will benefit preservation. If you make your position known at this stage, you have a greater opportunity to influence the legislation.

2. Consider your timing.

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Any contact with your legislative members should include a clear statement of the action you would like them to take. Possible actions include introducing a bill, becoming a cosponsor, voting in committee or on the floor in favor of a bill or amendment, or contacting another key member.

3. Make a specific request.

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It’s important to know as much as possible about the bills you’re lobbying for. Your case will be improved if you use accurate, factual material to substantiate your position, and this ground work will be reflected when your representative or senator makes an informed decision on an issue. You may also want to provide rebuttals to arguments your opponents are making on the issue.

4. Have accurate info on hand.

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Connect the legislative issue you are discussing with examples of how it will benefit historic resources in your community, such as naming the historic districts and buildings that would benefit from historic tax credits. Only you can make it real and relevant for your legislators.

5. Use real-life, local examples.

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Check with your member’s offices on a regular basis, not just when you need them to do something. Invite them to local events and keep them informed of local preservation issues and updates. Ideally the offices will eventually reach out to you for advice and information on preservation issues.

6. Establish an ongoing relationship.

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Your first communication to the Washington, D.C. office of a member of Congress is likely to be directed to the legislative assistant who handles preservation issues. To help your case, provide concise, well-organized presentations, including material on how the issue plays out in that member’s district.

7. Contact the D.C. office.

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Senators may have six or so offices around their state. A congressman in a small district would only have one; in a larger district, two or three. While staff members who work in the district office are not directly involved in the legislative process, they are more readily accessible and familiar with local issues. The member’s schedule in his home district is usually arranged by these offices as well. Use them often!

8. Contact your district office.

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Although federal laws have a tremendous impact on preservation, the success or failure of preservation may be determined at the local level. Fortunately, all of the same rules apply; “lobbying is lobbying,” regardless of the office the elected official holds.

9. Remember to hit all levels of government.

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Whether lobbying in person or by email, phone, or letter, certain techniques hold true. Remember to identify yourself. Be succinct with your request. Ask specific questions. State your position on the issues. Have your research on hand. Keep your exchanges short and to the point. Always follow up on any questions or requests. And most importantly -- say thank you!

10. Polish your communications.

Photo courtesy National Trust for Historic Preservation

Ten on Tuesday features ten preservation tips each week. For more tips, visit blog.PreservationNation.org.