More than two dozen A&R Retiree Council members got a glimpse into the world of the Connecticut General Assembly as the Council’s Committee on Political Education (COPE) sponsored a training session on January 18, 2012 at the Legislative Office Building.
Led by AFT-CT Political Coordinator Teri Merisotis, the group heard from several knowledgeable sources. Deb Polun, Legislative Director of the legislature’s Commission on Aging offered the gathering an understanding of the commission’s role and a sampling of the issues facing older Connecticut residents.
Teri followed up with an overview of how a bill becomes law in Connecticut. She also urged members to become active by signing up for AFTCT’s Legislative Liaison program which in effect has you “adopt a legislator”.
John Magnesi of the Greater New Haven Labor History Association presented an overview of his organization and revealed upcoming legislation that would mandate teaching labor history in Connecticut’s public schools. The issue is also on AFT-CT’s legislative agenda.
AFT-CT Lobbyist Jennifer Berigan and Wethersfield State Representative Russ Morin gave an informative presentation around how to effectively lobby your state legislator. Following their presentation and a final wrap-up by Teri and COPE Chair Win Heimer, Teri and A&R Retiree Council Executive Board member Mary Joan Herbst led the group on an excellent “insider’s tour” of the Capitol building and Legislative Office Building (LOB). The group learned a bit of Capitol history as well since Mary Joan gives Capitol tours on a regular basis as a member of the League of Women Voters.
A lunch in the LOB cafeteria- courtesy of AFTCT – capped a very busy but productive and informative day.
