As the dust settles after legislative session, the interim period serves as a crucial window of opportunity for stakeholders to wield influence, shape policy agendas, and build relationships with legislators and legislative staff. For those hoping to strengthen their presence in Olympia, the interim is an opportunity to prepare for the coming session. In this guide, we explore the proactive steps that stakeholders can take between sessions to drive meaningful change.
What happens during the interim?
Often overshadowed by the intensity of the legislative session, the interim holds immense potential for proactive engagement. During this time, legislators begin to form policy ideas and budget priorities for the coming session. This process can include research, conversations with stakeholders and constituents, attending national and international conferences, and paying attention to emerging issues in-district. As in 2024, many legislators are beginning their re-election campaigns, seeking higher office, or considering retirement. Check out our blog post to learn more.
Strategic Planning
Before diving into interim activities, stakeholders must chart a clear course of action. At the end of one biennium, we often recommended that clients develop a biennial agenda. This means legislative priorities span the two-year budget cycle. This process begins with an assessment of your organization’s policy priorities, and identifying areas where legislative action is feasible and impactful. This is also an important time to consider which policies may return next year, and decide proactively how to engage. Whether advocating for policy changes, securing funding, or shaping your reputation in Olympia, clarity of purpose is crucial to a successful interim.
Cultivating Relationships Outside of Olympia
The interim offers a unique opportunity to foster meaningful relationships with policymakers and their staff. Beyond the marble halls at the Capitol, stakeholders can engage in substantive discussions, host informational tours, and offer expertise. By demonstrating a commitment to collaboration and constructive dialogue, stakeholders can position themselves as trusted allies in the policymaking process.
Strategic Communication
In the digital age, effective communication is indispensable to advocacy efforts. Leveraging traditional and digital platforms, stakeholders can disseminate compelling narratives, data-driven insights, and calls to action. From op-eds and social media campaigns to stakeholder outreach, strategic communication serves as a powerful tool to influence decision-makers.
Leveraging Data to Inform Strategy
During the interim, stakeholders should invest in gathering intelligence, monitoring policy developments, and finding a method to share the information with legislators. By aligning accurate data-driven evidence with persuasive arguments, stakeholders can strengthen advocacy efforts by sharing this information with legislators. This information is best shared prior to the start of legislative session, when the pace tends to be slower.
Coalition Building
Recognizing the strength in numbers, stakeholders should actively seek out opportunities for coalition building during the interim. By forging alliances with like-minded organizations, businesses, and advocacy groups, stakeholders can amplify their collective voice and pool resources to achieve shared objectives. Whether addressing a common issue or pursuing complementary goals, coalition building enhances the effectiveness and legitimacy of interim advocacy efforts.
In the dynamic arena of policymaking, the interim period represents a pivotal moment for stakeholders to shape outcomes, influence agendas, and drive positive change. If you’re looking for some guidance, consider reaching out to our team for support.