Charitable gambling organizations have a message to tell candidates
this election year, and below are a few simple things you and your
organization can do to make sure you are part of the electoral process,
and to gain additional credibility with your next House and Senate
member!
1. Get to know your next legislators by inviting
legislative
candidates in your area to one of your organization’s regular monthly
meetings in the next few months. Ask them questions about the
issues
that concern you (taxes, laws, rules, etc.). Show them your monthly
charitable gambling reports.
2. Let candidates get to know you by briefing them
on your concerns
and the role your organization plays in your (and their) local
community. Remember, many of theses candidates probably don’t know
much
about charitable gambling. You need to educate them about your
charitable gambling problems and issues (particularly charitable
gambling taxes). If they cannot attend one of your regular monthly
meetings, ask them to meet with several members of your organization
to
discuss your issues. Do not, however, endorse any candidate for public
office.
3. Volunteer to work on legislative campaigns. Working
on local
campaigns is a great way to really get to know your potential area
legislators and establish a valuable personal relationship. They need
help with pounding lawn signs, door knocks and literature drops,
phoning, mailings, office work, etc.. Volunteer for what you would
like
to do!
4. Contribute to legislative candidates. You can
contribute up to $50
($100 with spouse and joint return) and get all of your contribution
returned to you from the state. It doesn't cost you a dime and
will let
your local candidate(s) know that you can be counted on to help them
get
their message out.
Doing any or all of the above is an investment in your (and our)
future. Getting to know those who represent you in St. Paul will
greatly
enhance your (and our) ability to work with those elected officials
during future legislative sessions on important charitable gambling
issues!