A robust legislative tracking system is crucial for organizations seeking to influence public opinion and shape policy decisions effectively. A comprehensive public affairs strategy enables organizations to communicate their values, build trust, mitigate risks, and navigate changing public sentiment. Tracking legislation forms the bedrock of this strategy, ensuring timely and impactful communication.
Legislative tracking empowers public affairs professionals to be proactive, timely, and strategic. By monitoring legislation that may affect their stakeholders, they can engage at crucial moments to maximize their advocacy strategy’s impact.
The Strategic, Operational, and Tactical Approach
As Darrell Conner, Government Affairs Counselor at K&L Gates, states, “In every endeavor we do, we look at it from a strategic perspective, from an operational perspective, and from a tactical perspective. In order to develop any strategy, you really need to know what the playing field looks like, and what the political dynamics are, what the policy dynamics are, and then you can put together a strategy and an operations plan that is tactical to move forward.” This highlights the importance of a well-informed and adaptable approach to public affairs.
A shifting balance of political power within a legislature necessitates a flexible strategy. As Conner notes, “If things change, your strategy must change as a result of that. And so it’s a living document, and it’s something that you have to have as an adaptive tool.” Therefore, continuous tracking and analysis are vital.
Overcoming the Volume of Legislation
Successful government affairs professionals must identify and understand relevant legislative activity to advise clients, advocate on their behalf, and achieve policy outcomes. However, the sheer volume of legislation introduced at both state and federal levels can be overwhelming.
State legislators across the U.S. consider over 170,000 measures annually, with fewer than 18% becoming law. Similarly, the number of federal bills introduced in Congress varies yearly. For example, as of Nov. 1, 2024, there were approximately 18,000 bills and resolutions before Congress. Historically, only about 6% of proposed federal legislation passes, with recent years seeing even fewer bills enacted.
Forecasting Regulatory Changes with Legislative Tracking
Legislative bill tracking aids public affairs professionals in preparing their clients for upcoming legislative or regulatory changes. By anticipating their potential impact on costs, processes, and compliance, organizations can make informed decisions. Early insight into the political and legislative landscape allows for smoother transitions when laws change, even for organizations not actively involved in lobbying.
In conclusion, effectively tracking legislation is essential for a comprehensive public affairs strategy. It ensures that organizations are well-informed, proactive, and able to adapt to the ever-changing political landscape. This proactive approach allows for maximized impact on policy decisions and the successful navigation of public sentiment.
