Many chapters already have established good relationships with their congressional representatives. Last year, MOAA decided to capitalize on those relationships—and hopefully encourage the development of new ones—by asking council presidents to pair up each chapter in their state with specific congressional districts. Chapter leaders then were encouraged to find someone who was willing to serve as a legislative district liaison for their chapter. These liaisons will meet and speak with their senators, congressional representatives in their chapter’s area, and members of their respective staffs.

MOAA’s leaders believe one of the best ways to increase the association legislative clout is to have constituents establish relationships with legislators who serve in key positions, especially those who serve on the Armed Services, Budget, Veterans Affairs, and Appropriations Committees.

Volunteers won’t have to do everything on their own. National MOAA will provide you with support, fact sheets, and other materials you can use. When possible, volunteers will call on their legislators once or twice a year to discuss specific issues. Many of these visits will take place in August, when congressional representatives return to their home state or district for the month.

If you are interested in becoming a chapter legislative district liaison for your congressional district, please contact your state council president. (If you don’t know how to contact your council president, please call MOAA’s Member Service Center at (800) 234-MOAA (6622) to request that information.) We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers who can help move our legislative agenda forward.