Would you like to volunteer, but need something you can do mostly from home?

 Do you want to work on a legislative subject of particular interest to you?  

Consider being a reporter for Report from State Circle (RSC), our publication that provides the public with information on what kind of bills are before the Maryland General Assembly (MDGA) approximately every two weeks during session. 

The role requires scanning the list of bills introduced on the General Assembly website frequently - sometimes daily if you have a hot topic and want to alert LWVMD membership to act fast – and summarizing those in your subject area for the public to track and easily understand. Your drafts are reviewed to our intrepid editor, Judith Heimann, long-time Leaguer, and MDGA legislative expert for many years. The deadlines this year are set for Jan. 22, Feb 5, Feb 19, Mar 5, Mar 26.

A look at the 2017 issues of the RSC available at http://www.lwvmd.org/report_from_st_circle will give you a sense of what is covered, and how. This is an education publication. Opinions on the bills are not reflected, the goal is to educate people on the process and content of bills. Though, on special occasions, board members may choose to notify readers of testimony LWVMD is offering on specific bills. 

As a reporter, you will also work to alert LWVMD leadership to bills they may want to take action on if it aligns with, or diverges from LWVMD positions. If you’re available to go to Annapolis, you may even have the opportunity to personally testify in support or opposition of these bills. With all the issues flying through the General Assembly, our Presidents and I need your help to stay on top of these important issues! 

We are planning our annual training session and luncheon for reporters on (tentatively) November 9 or 10, at Nancy Soreng’s home in Chevy Chase. There you will be provided with the materials that will guide you on the exact format for your article, and how to track and report on bills. There will also be many veteran reporters in attendance to answer any questions, and provide you with support and guidance. 

Right now, we particularly need people to report on Transparency in Government, Firearms Control and Campaign Finance. Please contact Lois Hybl at [email protected] if you are interested.

Lois Hybl, Vice President-
Action