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.
