Enacting legislation can institute widespread, long-lasting change, but the process to develop or support Legislation: A law that has been enacted by a legislative body (such as Congress or a State's general assembly). it can be more intensive and complex than other policy approaches. This section will help you plan your policy initiative. It poses important considerations and questions designed to help you make key decisions, design effective strategies, and identify next steps in a comprehensive action plan to promote new or revised legislation.
This section of the Policy Action Guide will walk you through the key aspects of a legislative initiative, including:
Reminder: As you proceed, keep in mind your initial policy objectives and how they apply to an initiative to enact legislation.
Wrap-Up
Carefully thinking through the considerations in each of the preceding sections can help your policy team systematically plan and set the groundwork for a successful legislative initiative. If you have not done so already, download a copy of the Action Plan Form (PDF - 1.31 MB) for legislation and complete the fields to create your own tailored plan.
As you proceed with your legislative initiative, remember that there is not a one-size-fits-all policy process. You should remain flexible in your approach, which will better enable you and your partners to work within an ever-changing social and political environment. Additionally, keep in mind that policy development is only one component in a comprehensive change process and needs to be implemented in conjunction with supportive infrastructure elements. Above all, though, remember the ultimate underlying goal in your policy efforts: improving the lives of children and families.