Dr. Jeff Lowenstein
Don’t Give Up! Don’t Ever Give Up!
Why You Should Keep Supporting Your Bill Even if It Didn’t Pass
L. Jeffrey Lowenstein, DMD
NESO Legislative Correspondent
In the complex world of legislative politics, it’s not uncommon for a proposed bill to fail to pass through the legislature. However, just because a bill doesn’t make it through this time doesn’t mean your support should waver. There are several compelling reasons to continue backing a bill, even in the face of legislative setbacks.
- Building Momentum for Future Efforts
A bill’s journey doesn’t end with a single vote. The process of advocating for a bill can help build momentum and generate public and professional awareness on the issue it addresses. Every campaign or informational session helps to educate the public, policymakers and fellow dentists about the importance of the issue. This growing awareness can influence future legislative sessions and increase the likelihood of the bill’s success down the road.
- Highlighting Persistent Issues
Even if a bill doesn’t pass, it can serve as a powerful tool for highlighting persistent issues. The failure of a bill can draw attention to the problem it seeks to address, keeping it in the dental society and legislative consciousness. This ongoing attention can create pressure on lawmakers to revisit the issue, leading to renewed discussions and potential future action.
- Demonstrating Commitment
Continuing to support a bill after its initial failure demonstrates unwavering commitment to the cause. It shows legislators and fellow dentists that you are dedicated and passionate about the issue, which can help build credibility and influence. A committed advocacy group is often more effective in pushing for change, as it signals that the issue is of significant importance to a substantial portion of the community.
- Encouraging Legislative Revisions
The feedback and data collected during the initial legislative process can be invaluable. Advocates have the opportunity to learn from the experience, refine their arguments, and address any concerns that were raised. By continuing to support the bill, you can work on refining it, making necessary amendments, and addressing any criticisms. This modification process can lead to a stronger, more compelling bill when it is reintroduced.
- Creating Policy Networks
The process of advocating for a bill often involves building relationships with policymakers, stakeholders, and other dental groups. These connections can be valuable for future efforts, providing a network of support and resources that can be mobilized when the bill is reintroduced. Continuing to support the bill helps to maintain and strengthen these relationships, which can be crucial for future legislative success.
- Inspiring Change Beyond Legislation
Sometimes, the value of advocacy extends beyond the passage of a bill. By rallying support and fostering discussion, you can inspire change in other areas, such as community dental practices, corporate policies, or local health care initiatives. The advocacy work can lead to tangible improvements and innovations that may complement or even precede legislative changes.
- Preparing for Future Opportunities
Legislative landscapes are dynamic, with shifting priorities and changing political climates. A bill that fails today may find a more favorable environment in the future. By continuing to support the bill, you keep the issue alive and position yourself to capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Persistence and preparation can pay off when the timing is right.
Conclusion
The path to legislative success is often winding and fraught with challenges. However, the failure of a bill to pass should not be seen as a final verdict. There are many valid reasons to continue supporting the bill, from building momentum and demonstrating commitment to refining the proposal and leveraging policy networks. Your ongoing advocacy can pave the way for future successes and contribute to meaningful change, even if the bill doesn’t pass in its current form.