Humane Lobby Day Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pre-register to participate, or can I choose to participate on the day of the event?

We ask that all TAFA attendees who wish to attend Humane Lobby Day indicate that on their registration form. This is because our team will be working behind the scenes to schedule your meeting(s) for you and grouping attendees that want to participate with other participants from their district. If you do not indicate your intention to attend when you register for TAFA but later change your mind, please email info@takingactionforanimals.org so we can make that change for you. Please note that while all efforts will be made to schedule a meeting for you, we may not be able to accommodate requests made within 14 days of the conference beginning.

How will I get to the Capitol from the conference hotel?

Humane World for Animals will provide charter buses for all Humane Lobby Day participants from the hotel to the Capitol around 8AM and returning to the hotel from the Capitol at about 4PM. Please note that the buses will not be running throughout the day so if you wish to depart the hotel later or leave the Capitol sooner, you can do so but must arrange that transportation on your own. Public transportation, including by Metrorail, is within walking distance of both the Capitol Complex and hotel. 

Additionally, please be aware that buses are not allowed to drop off in front of the Capitol building. Instead, you will be dropped off and picked up a few blocks away from the Capitol, so you will need to be prepared to walk 5-10 minutes at drop off and pick up. Here is a map of the Capitol Complex for your reference. 

Will I be talking to lawmakers face-to-face?

We are not able to guarantee a meeting with your federal legislator(s). Members of the U.S. House and Senate have busy schedules and often their staffers participate in constituent meetings instead.  While we will do our best to secure a meeting for you with your legislator or their staff, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to set up a meeting for you 

Will I be escorted or alone?

You will NOT be attending a meeting alone. Every meeting will have a Humane World representative accompanying each advocate. Additionally, there may be other attendees from your district/state there will be opportunities at TAFA for you to meet ahead of time. 

Can I partner with a friend so I'm not alone?

It’s a great idea to recruit friends and family to attend TAFA and Humane Lobby Day. A large turnout creates a powerful voice for animals. Legislators are primarily interested in hearing from their own constituents, so only attendees from your legislative district should attend these meetings with you.

What legislation will we be discussing?

There are many, many animal welfare bills filed each year during a congressional session. We choose our priority bills for Humane Lobby Day based upon several factors, including their impact and chance of passage. There may be other animal protection topics/issues that are important to you, but focusing on the bills we’ve chosen will make the most impact during your visit to the Capitol.

Is there anything I can do to prepare?

It’s helpful to know your legislators before going into meetings and one good way to do so is by reviewing  their websites. Humane World Action Fund also has an annual scorecard that reviews your federal legislators’ animal welfare actions. Do some investigating online to gather background and look up your federal legislators' contact info.

Will you be providing any training?

Yes! All Humane Lobby Day participants will be invited to a pre-event webinar training a few weeks before the conference begins. Additionally, there is a live onsite training at the conference on Sunday, August 2, from 3:45 - 5 p.m. During these trainings, you will be instructed on what to expect at Lobby Day and what bill(s) you will be discussing, and you will also have the opportunity to ask questions. 

What should I wear?

Dress professionally to meet with legislators. Business/business casual is appropriate for lobby day. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Also, bring a picture I.D. and an umbrella if inclement weather is expected. Please also review the U.S. Capitol Police’s prohibited items list before your trip.

Where can I eat?

There are various food options available in the House and Senate office buildings or within close walking distance. More information will be given during the training sessions.

Can I bring my child? My dog?

Children often have an important impact on legislators, and their opinion matters even if they can't vote. Family members attending TAFA with you are welcome to join, but please leave your four-legged family members at home. 

What if I have additional questions?

Please email us!