Members take to the Hill for virtual MAPE lobby week

Nearly 200 people participated in more than 100 meetings with their state legislators this week as part of MAPE’s first-ever virtual lobby week. Since 2019, MAPE has evolved from the all-member Day on the Hill in exchange for targeted district meetings, agency-specific mini days on the hill and virtual lobby week in the years since.

The pandemic has changed the way MAPE members access their legislators - many preferring the ease of connecting virtually instead of making the trip to St. Paul for in-person meetings.

“We were thrilled to see so many MAPE members embrace our first attempt at a weeklong, virtual lobby experience,” said Kristin Kirchoff-Franklin, member of MAPE’s Political Council. “Though we miss filling that rotunda with our voices, it was great to see so many faces on Zoom and know we were lobbying a fair and modest MAPE contract.”

Members lobbied legislators for MAPE’s 2022-24 Contract, which

includes 2.5% cost of living adjustments, no major increases in healthcare costs and other wins around diversity, recruitment and retention.

MAPE’s contract bills have bipartisan support and authors in both bodies. The House bill is on the general register awaiting vote by the full House. The Senate has yet to take up the bill.

Wondering how you can get involved? MAPE’s PAC and Political Council currently have openings. Apply today! All members are encouraged to email your legislators today and ask them to support our MAPE contract!