How We Reach Our Positions
Member Adoption
LWV involvement really begins when a study is adopted by members at LWV Convention. Study makes action possible. It brings to members the knowledge that makes LWV action uniquely credible and respected. During the study phase, members have an opportunity to examine the facts and key pro and con points. (Learn more about our current studies and see past study reports.) When the study committee members have completed a study, local League members are given the opportunity to become informed before being asked to make decisions on the issue under consideration. Through a process the LWV terms consensus, local League members express their agreement and the LWVOR board adopts a Statement of Position.
Statement of Position
The Statement of Position is an expression of general agreement by a substantial and representative number of members about certain governmental policies. All state positions must be consistent with board approved policies, a principle applying at all levels of LWV functioning. For the board, the position is the yardstick against which to measure governmental proposals. Each position affirms a basic philosophy in general terms, defines the goals desired, and establishes guidelines against which proposals can be measured. Each position is reexamined biennially by local Leagues in their program planning discussions before each biennial convention.
Taking Action
Action may be taken after a Statement of Position has been adopted. The state board appoints an action committee. This group may be involved in many forms of action at the state level, such as testifying before legislative committees, conferring with state officials and agencies, or working with other groups having common interests. League action is always nonpartisan, meaning it neither supports nor opposes candidates or political parties.
Local League Involvement
Local League and individual member participation in state action is encouraged in a variety of ways. League members recommend priorities for action for board approval. Information on state action items is included in monthly communications to local Leagues. During the legislative session, the twice-monthly Legislative Report describes state issues and activities and is available by email to members and the public at no charge. Action alerts are sent to local Leagues for their action.
Local Leagues may take action on behalf of LWV of Oregon on state advocacy issues by having their president contact their local legislators or other persons at the state level, or by developing letters to the editor.
Also, League members may use these materials as resource content for their individual activities, such as letters to legislators, letters to the editor, and in personal contacts, but not in the name of the League.
Local Positions
A local League may testify on a state legislative matter that particularly affects the local area when it has an appropriate position and the state League has been notified.
A local League may be requested by the state to testify on a legislative bill if the state does not have a position , but the local League has an appropriate position that addresses the issue statewide.
