Oftentimes, people associate lobbying with big corporations, organizations, or businesses in Washington, D.C. However, there are other types, such as intergovernmental lobbying.
Intergovernmental lobbying means that cities, counties, and states allocate both resources and funding in order to achieve their specified goals with regard to other levels of government. While this type of lobbying is not well-known, similar to lobbying for small businesses, intergovernmental lobbying can prove to be very beneficial. It has become increasingly popular with over $77 million being spent in 2015 alone, compared to the $150 million spent between 1998-2008.
Reasons Why Cities and Towns Hire Lobbyists
There are plenty of reasons as to why cities, towns, counties, and states would want to hire lobbyists. Just like every business and organization has different needs, all levels of government also have issues that affect their industry.
Some of these issues include:
- Unemployment
- Infrastructure
- Housing
- Public Safety
- Immigration
- Drug Abuse Prevention
- Budget
- Tribal Land Issues
- Minimum Wage Rate
- Transportation
- Education
Whether it is a small town in Alaska avoiding unincorporation or San Antonio getting a new courthouse, there are plenty of benefits that come from local governments hiring lobbyists.
Additionally, cities and towns hire lobbyists to push back against state laws that limit their jurisdiction. With so much legislation being introduced at the state level, local governments can have a hard time finding the time to be there and represent their interests. By hiring a lobbyist, these government entities can get a seat at the table and have their voices heard. With governmental procedures sometimes being slow and taking longer than desired, lobbyists can speed up the process by influencing key policymakers in the approval or disapproval of certain bills.
In the end, it is about being represented in front of the people that matter and have your voice heard. Just like big corporations and organizations are represented in Washington, D.C., towns, cities, and states can be represented as well, which can bring real benefits and change to their communities.
Dorn Policy Will Advocate For You
As a leading Arizona-based professional lobbying and public affairs firm, Dorn Policy Group works with all levels of government including Federal, State, County, Municipal, District, and Tribes. Working with both Republicans and Democrats, as well as Independents, we will provide you with the best strategic counsel to advance and reach your objectives. Contact us today to get started!