Methodists in Advocacy

HOW CAN PEOPLE OF FAITH BE ENGAGED IN ADVOCACY?

Methodists in Advocacy gives Methodists an opportunity to advocate public policy consistent with the United Methodist Social Principles and promotes communication with members of the Georgia General Assembly.

For the 2020 legislative session it will focus on:

1. HEALTHCARE - Expanding access to healthcare by allowing the maximum number of the poor eligible for Medicaid.

2. GAMBLING - Opposing legislation authorizing casino gambling

3. CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM - Supporting Second Chance legislation enabling returning citizens to gain employment.

New Event

The Georgia legislature will re-convene on Thursday, June 11 to complete this year’s session. It must agree on a state budget which will go into effect July 1. The budget will be the state’s detailed response to the pandemic.

Questions to consider:

• Will it pave the way for an aggressive battle against Covid-19?

• Will it support the front-line workers who work each day to keep all of us safe?

  Will it support health care institutions that have increased costs?

State revenues will be down by $4 billion and the governor has asked every department to recommend a 14% cut in their budgets. Under this approach the burden will rest on employees and the people who receive their services. For example, it means a 14% cut to higher education, technical colleges, public school education K-12, pre-K and even public health – surely not public health! Rep. David Dreyer (D) from Fulton County will speak to us on issues that he thinks will be in the budget. Where should we put our advocacy energy?

Our three issues have been:

1. Medicaid expansion;

2. Second Chance jobs – Senate Bill 288 is in the House and can pass;

3. Gambling –maybe its advocates will revive the amendment with the promise of new revenue. It could spring out of its grave.

Discussion: What should we focus on in this rump session? What should we be talking to our legislators about?

If you’re looking for ways to stay updated on alerts about upcoming legislation and action events related to that legislation you can join our Facebook Group here or sign up for our email list.