Action Network Plans Course for Coming Year, Names By-laws Drafting Committee

Members of CPA’s Action Network and Action Network Steering Committee convened at NCSL to develop a working list of issues to focus on, determine how to meet information needs of legislators across traditional political boundaries and name a By-Laws Drafting Committee. Action Network Co-Chairs Rep. Spencer Coggs (Wisc.) and Sen. Allyson Schwartz (Pa.) reiterated the Action Network’s basic commitment to working families and a thriving, inclusive economy.

"Now more than ever, threats from the far right are impacting families in the media and legislatures across the country," said National Education Association Government Relations Director and Action Network supporter Mary Elizabeth Teasley. "The Action Network must be a broad-based, bipartisan effort — that’s where NEA is going, and that’s where legislatures are going."

Legislators stressed the need for information, strategy and support on issues affecting children, such as public education, day care availability and children’s health care. Also discussed were ways to increase civic participation by underrepresented groups, human service privatization and eldercare.

A new By-laws Drafting Committee will include Del. Rushern Baker (Md.), Rep. Judy Ann Buffmire (Utah; 1995 Flemming Fellow), Rep. Dawn Mason (Wash.; 1996 Flemming Fellow)and Del. Ken Montague (Md.; member of CPA Board of Directors). The committee will draft by-laws to govern Action Network operations.

The Action Network is a group of state elected officials committed to supporting each other in finding progressive, inclusive solutions to the intractable challenges facing communities.

The Action Network links legislators and organizations from across the country to move a progressive agenda with common strategies and messages.