On The National Scene

EVENT: Update on Federal Legislation” presented by Joel Miller to the National Coalition on Mental Health and Aging

DATE: June 26, 2017

INFO: Download the Powerpoint presentation by clicking the button below.

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At The State Level

Advocacy Update – Illinois State Budget for FY2018

On July 6, 2017, the Illinois House of Representatives overrode the Governor’s veto and passed a balanced budget.

The General Assembly enacted three budget bills:

SB 0006, the spending plan,

SB 0009, the revenue plan,

and the

SB 0042 – the Budget Implementation Bill (BIMP)

A summary of the budget bills is attached below, courtesy of State Representative Greg Harris (D-13).

ICMHA Advocacy Update

Also attached below are the House’s analyses of these bills reflecting final action by the Senate and House, provided courtesy of Terry Steczo, with Government Strategy Associates.

SB 0006

SB 0009

SB 0042

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE ADVOCACY

• Tell your story – and empower consumers to tell their stories;
• Be factual – always tell the truth, be a reliable information source;
• Be authentic – stay true to the voice of the people you represent;
• Be present – don’t underestimate the power of showing up;
• Be engaging – invite lawmakers to share their stories about your issue;
• Be strategic – know when to act and send your message;
• Be persistent – ask lawmakers to commit to supporting your position;
• Be a good team player – coalesce with other advocates, report back; and
• Be thankful – recognize and thank lawmakers for their support.