Public Policy Resources
"Public policy" can be defined as the system of laws, regulatory measures, funding priorities, and other rules established by governmental entities and representatives.
Legislative advocacy is one of the tools we can use to affect that public policy. The goal of MCBW's legislative advocacy is to influence and shape the policies that affect the well-being of the public and to ensure that Minnesota's public policy enhances the safety of battered women and their children and supports their pursuit of a better life.
The 2008 Legislative Session:
The 2008 Legislative session is underway. MCBW has worked hard with member programs throughout the fall to establish a direction for policy changes and legislative organizing. MCBW’s Annual Meeting set clear priorities:
- Maintain funding increases received last session.
- Provide increased safety for victims of domestic violence by protecting communications between domestic violence victims and advocates through statutory privilege, making such communications confidential.
- Oppose any proposed changes to the family law statutes that would have an adverse impact on battered women.
Latest MCBW Public Policy and Legislative Update
MCBW’s 2008 Legislative Fact Sheets and Priorities Documents
- Strengthening Orders for Protection Fact Sheet
- Advocate Privileged Communication Fact Sheet
- Family Court and Domestic Violence Fact Sheets
Tools and Links for Public Policy or Legislative Advocacy
MCBW’s Advocate’s Guide to Legislative Action
Minnesota Council of Non Profits Public Policy Page
Center for Lobbying in the Public Interest
Minnesota State Government:
Minnesota House of Representatives
Track Your Own Bills:
http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/legis.asp
Links to the Federal Government:
United States House of Representatives
National Public Policy Resources on Domestic Violence:
Battered Women’s Justice Project
National Network to End Domestic Violence