Advocates are facing new challenges related to federal and state rules on lobbying. These materials provided are intended to provide some guidance on what to think about when engaging in advocacy or lobbying activities. Advocacy is still an essential part of the Statewide Systems Advocacy Network.

FAQ for Centers for Independent Living from ACL:  Allowable Advocacy Activities for Federal Grantees

Overview of New York State’s Lobbying Law and Regulations

Summary: New York State’s Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE) recently released new regulations, effective January 1, 2019, which update the definitions for what constitutes lobbying – including direct contact lobbying and grassroots activity - and the requirements for reporting. This webinar outlines what is a reportable lobby activity, if your ILC should be reporting, and how to go about doing so.

Date: 11/19/18

Presenter: Kevin Cleary, lobbyist for NYAIL. Kevin has over 36 years’ experience in the workings of State Government in Albany, as a lobbyist, consultant, key legislative staff person, regulator and service provider.

Presentation Slides: Lobbying in New York State

Webinar Recording: Overview of New York State’s Lobbying Law and Regulations

Overview of Federal and State Lobbying Law and Regulations

Summary: Systems advocacy is at the core of the Independent Living & disability rights movements. Yet with new guidelines at the state and federal level, many are thinking that we can no longer advocate or even mention the “A” word. This workshop will clarify the difference between systems advocacy and lobbying – and how centers can still do both!

Date: 9/10/19

Presenter: Kimberly Tissot, Able South Carolina

Presentation Slides: Advocacy - NY IL Network

Presentation Materials: