Small Business in Day in Dover

"It's typically a specific bill or issue that brings small business owners to Legislative Hall and it's intimidating. It's great to have the Chamber on your side for this," said Kim Gomes of The Byrd Group.

As a small business owner, we recognize that you may not have the ability to go to Dover for every piece of legislation. But the State Chamber does and we're here for you. Capitalize on the membership benefit of having a full time lobbyist for your business interests through DSCC. 

Our annual Small Business Day in Dover on May 10, kicked off with a panel discussion featuring Kim, Rick Deadwyler of DuPont, Lincoln Willis of The Willis Group and Kim Willson of Ruggerio Willson & Associates. Our lobbyists shared with attendees advice and best practices for navigating Legislative Hall and working alongside their legislators. Some key takeaways:

• Legislation is oftentimes very personal as it directly impacts your business, your livelihood, which can sometimes emotionally charge the conversation. Bring that passion to the table when you meet with your legislators, but be sure to channel it respectfully and effectively. 
• Create a succinct one-pager of bullet points about the legislation and how it affects your business. This will help drive the conversation, keep it on topic, and you can leave it with your legislator for their future reference. Legislators are often faced with a high volume of legislation and may not always be fluent in the specific issue you are addressing. 
• It helps to know your employees' legislators - they should also be contacted regarding your legislative concerns, and your employees should become advocates for themselves and your business, too.
• Shy away from prepackaged messaging and really personalize your correspondence. 
• Make that human connection. Your legislators are citizens of the community just like you. Do your homework and find ways to engage them in meaningful ways.
• Be informed. Your opinion is important, but the fact remains that others will feel differently than you. Learn why others may oppose legislation you are for, and vice versa. The more informed you are, the better prepared you are for making your case. 
• Be patient, but persistent, and stay involved.

Following the panel, we participated in the House Small Business Caucus meeting, chaired by Representatives Quinn Johnson, Daniel Short and Michael Ramone. Guests heard from Dr. Kara Odom Walker from the Department of Health and Social Services who provided an update on the state of health care in Delaware.

Our 80 attendees were then able to tour Legislative Hall and meet with their legislators in person. 

Thanks to sponsors MilliCare by EBC, Environmental Alliance, Inc., Offit Kurman Attorneys at Law, Santora CPA Group, Vandemark & Lynch, Inc., and the Delaware Division of Small Business.