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. 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 pickup. 

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

Yes, every attempt will be made to schedule a meeting with the legislators who represent you at the state capitol. In the event that your legislator cannot meet with you personally, you will get a chance to talk with one of his or her key staffers. Your meeting will generally only last a few minutes, and you’ll be given specific talking points and training about what to cover during the meeting.

Will I be escorted or alone?

There may be other attendees from your same district. If so, meetings will be consolidated so that each lawmaker has only one meeting. If no one else from your district attends the event, you will meet with your legislators alone. The event organizers will provide information that will help you find the meeting place. They'll also be stationed at a check-in point so that you will always know where to go for support or questions.

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 can attend legislator meetings with you.

What legislation will we be discussing?

There are many, many animal bills filed each year during the legislative 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 with them. Most elected officials have a website. Some states have humane voting leagues that keep track of legislator's voting records on animal issues. Do some investigating online to gather background and look up your 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. A business suit or slacks/skirt and a jacket are appropriate for lobby day. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Also, bring an umbrella and a picture I.D.

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. Bring whatever family members are attending TAFA with you and will be able to remain focused for the entire schedule, but please leave the four-legged family members at home.

What if I have additional questions?

Please email us!