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Q) I can’t afford to take a day away from my business.
Trying to influence legislation is part of your business. Think of Restaurant Lobby Day as a 1-day investment in your business, where you get to have a say on issues that affect your bottom line.
Q) What can I accomplish face-to-face that I can’t do on the telephone?
Calling your legislator is actually more effective once they’ve met you face-to-face. When you speak in person, you are able to convey many things that a phone conversation simply cannot. Plus, when you’re looking an elected official in the eye, you know you are going to get a real answer -- not a generic brush-off.
Q) I’m nervous about having to talk to my legislator. I’m not a public speaker, and these are complex issues.
WRA carefully plans the day so you are fully briefed on the issues before your legislative visits. You’ll have time to ask questions and you’ll receive a complete set of handouts. The visits themselves take place in a group, so you won’t be alone when you meet with your elected officials.
The best quality you bring to these meetings is just to be yourself - - even if you’re nervous. You’re the expert on your own business, and that is what we want legislators to hear about.
Q) I’m not a member, and I don’t really know anyone at WRA. I don’t want to spend an entire day as an outsider.
By coming to Restaurant Lobby Day you become a face of our industry, and a face for small business. This is our day, when the real people of the industry come together. First time attendees are made to feel welcome, and you’ll be able to spend time with colleagues from across the state, as well as your own area.
Q) These issues don’t really affect my business.
In the past, we have been able to impact issues including the statewide smoking ban, the minimum wage, credit card fees and liability, and new taxes on small businesses. These issues affect every small business, and together we can protect our ability to prosper.
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