1. Is the 1-5 page requirement based on double spacing?
This isn't a strict page requirement, so it doesn't have to be single- or double-spaced. You are able to format the bill how you think it would look best (for example, single spaced text but double spaced between sections).
2. Can we bring handouts for the legislators?
Yes, it is good to think of what materials and information that would be helpful to give when lobbying. Also, there are things to think about if you are giving legislators materials--when to present it, if you reference them, and how much--all keeping your time limit and the pressures of a congressperson in mind.
If so, do these require approval? Are there limitations on information that we can have in handouts?
No, you are free to be creative.
3. Will we be engaged in conversation and/or field questions from legislators during the rounds, or will the format be just 10 minutes of each competitor talking, without interruption?
You will be engaged in conversation. It's meant to simualate walking into a legislator's office, chit chatting, and discussing the issues. It is important not to read a prepared statement. There will be a
"legislator" and a "staff member" along with a timekeeper who will be out of the way but visible.
4. Will we be standing, sitting, while talking? What will the general layout of the rooms be like?
You will be sitting. The preliminary rooms are classrooms, so it's not exactly like an office setting, but the chairs will be set up so you're facing each other. You will be at a table during the finals.
5. Can I bring a friend/spectator � if so, how much should I pay?
Guests are welcome. Everyone may bring one person free of charge for the day. Please send their names to me via email when submitting your bill.
If you'd like to bring more, and they will be enjoying food and drinks throughout the day as well, please bring a check made out to "National Center for Animal Law" for $10/person.
6. Can we present a different version of the bill to the legislators we are meeting with compared to what we submitted?
No.
If not, can we spin it a bit - as in, suggest other changes that weren't set in the written form?
Yes, you can suggest amendments/compromises/changes.
7. Can we create stories/information about the Coalitions members' personal interests and/or histories, or our own?
Yes.
8. Can we create other groups as supporting our goals/amendments?
Yes, you may but if you try to say you have the support of a highly unlikely group be prepared for your legislator to challenge that or make up facts that counter it. Just stick to a reasonably predictable scenario. And remember that you are judged not on what you say as facts but how you present them and how you handle the questioning.
9. I understand that we decide which sections of the AWA to amend, but I am a bit confused about the citizen suit provisions, enforcement provisions, and, other amendments as necessary to properly regulate puppy mills and pet stores. Do we include an amendment for each of those three or do we select from those three that which we think we can be most successful in wining support for?
You are able to amend the AWA however you think would be most effective as many times and in as many places--you should definitely include a citizen suit provision, you should look at current enforcement to see if there needs to be more in light of your amendments (or if you think anything should change to make the statute more effective), and the last is a catch-all for you to look at any other aspect of the statute. You can be creative, you can write your "dream" statute, or can amend it strategically thinking about what would likely pass, etc.
