From USAC:
We are all too keenly aware of what happens when the legislature beats to their own drum, without the public’s input. Now is your opportunity to impact meaningful change in both houses of the legislature. This year, the entire House of Representatives and half of the Senate are up for re-election. What that means is you can hold your Representative and Senator accountable for their position on stream access.
To help you know where your legislators stand, we have compiled data from previous voting records and conversations with legislators to bring you this voter’s guide. Inside, you will find where every incumbent up for re-election stands on stream access.
What do we need you to do? Other than considering these positions when filling out your ballot, we once again need you to contact your legislators. Now is the time when your voice matters most – when your legislators know that a constituent vote is on the line. You don’t need to be an expert on the ins-and-outs of the issue, you just need to convey that this is an important issue to you as a constituent.
Here’s how to do it in 3 easy steps:
1. Look up your legislator here: http://le.utah.gov/GIS/findDistrict.jsp
2. Find where your legislators stand in the USAC Voter’s Guide.
3. Reach out and get in touch with them regardless of their position on access. This third step is the most important!
Below are some example lead-in conversation.
For those Pro-Access: “Hello Representative/Senator ________. My name is ____________, and I am a constituent in your district. I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate your support for Stream Access legislation on the hill, and the public’s constitutional right to recreate in all waters of the State of Utah. Please keep up the good work.”
For those Against Access: “Hello Representative/Senator ________. My name is ____________, and I am a constituent in your district. I am calling as a concerned voter, because I am disappointed on your position on stream access. Would you be willing to discuss this topic further to find common ground on this issue?”
For those Swing Votes: “Hello Representative/Senator ________. My name is ____________, and I am a constituent in your district. I am calling about the upcoming election, and in particular, I would like to discuss your position on stream access. This is a very important issue to me (and my family), and I believe in the people’s constitutional right to recreate in all waters of the State of Utah. Are you familiar with this issue? Would you be willing to discuss this topic further?”
It’s that easy. Take the time to be an informed voter. Educate your legislators. Shape the battles to come.
Board of Directors
Utah Steam Access Coalition
[email protected]
www.utahstreamaccess.org
About Us
The Mission of the Utah Stream Access Coalition is to promote and assist in all aspects of restoring and preserving public access to, and lawful use of, Utah’s public waters and streambeds.
The USAC is a 501(c)4 nonprofit corporation, and while your donations are appreciated, they are not tax-deductible.
Utah Stream Access Coalition
P.O. Box 91154
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
www.utahstreamaccess.org
