Key Points

The Delaware General Assembly is comprised of 21 Senators and 41 Representatives. In the 2020 election, there was one nurse, Melissa Minor-Brown (D) , elected to the House of Representatives.

The legislature convenes on the second Tuesday of January and meets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays until June 30 of each year.

A General Assembly meets for 2 years, the first year being the first session and the second year being the second session. All bills carry over from the first year to the second year. Legislation not passed by the end of the second session is not carried over to the next General Assembly.

Effectively Connect with Legislators

Direct communication with decision-makers can be a powerful, cost-effective advocacy tool. This may be done through letters, telephone calls, and emails – but personal meetings are often the most effective way to communicate.

Be Prepared

Just as your time is limited, so is a legislator’s. Know the bill number and issues. Have facts ready.

Identify Yourself

Introduce yourself as a nurse and a voter from a specific city or county. Keep in mind, you are speaking on behalf of yourself as a nurse, not as a lobbyist for any organization.

Keep it Simple

State your position clearly and succinctly. Expect questions and be responsive, not argumentative. It is alright to say “I don’t know the answer” and offer to get the information as quickly as possible. Always follow up with the legislator.

Stay on target. Restrict yourself from bringing up other issues and focus on the issue at hand. If possible, get a commitment.

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Facts and Figures

Facts and figures are useful, but use numbers carefully – using too many it can overload and confuse your audience. Balance statistics with stories that convey the message.

Using Research

Using action-oriented and up-to-date research is a crucial way of showing decision makers and the broader public why an action is needed. It helps with credibility and confidence, and adds weight to your argument. You may use your own research, DNA or ANA provided research,  or that of others. It is often beneficial to use research to make positive recommendations and proposals, and to cite examples of good practice.

Research produced by your audience, such as a government or health body, will be a particularly powerful way of strengthening your messages and arguments.

Real-life Stories

Remember that you are competing for attention in order to create support for change. It is often crucial to capture hearts first, then minds. Real-life stories and your messaging are key ways to achieve this.