After a long and busy legislative session and the clock strikes midnight on the final day, advocates, lawmakers, and lobbyists breathe a sigh of relief. When a legislature adjourns sine die, a Latin phrase meaning “without a day,” it signifies the official end of the legislative session. Months of negotiations, grassroots engagement, and legislative analysis can be demanding, especially if desired outcomes do not become reality.
While it’s important to take time to reflect on the session’s wins, losses, and everything in between, the work of advocacy does not end when lawmakers leave the capital. The legislative interim is a vital part of the policymaking process. It’s a time when legislators and staff return to their districts, connect with constituents, and begin shaping priorities for the next session. For CAI members, this presents a valuable opportunity to engage. CAI Legislative Action Committee (LAC) members are encouraged to strategically meet with legislators over the interim for three primary reasons:
Less formality. The backdrop of interim meetings is fundamentally different. Rather than the politically charged and fast-paced atmosphere of a state capitol, interim meetings take place within a legislator’s community. Lawmakers have the opportunity to meet with constituents where they live, work, and volunteer and gain a clear understanding of the issues affecting daily life. Whether meeting at a local coffee shop, family-owned business, or community event, these conversations occur in a setting that feels more personal and authentic. CAI HQ strongly urges communities to invite elected officials to community activities, allowing lawmakers to see firsthand the positive impact community associations have on residents and neighborhoods. Direct interactions with constituents remain one of the most effective forms of advocacy and often carry more weight than any other strategy.
A productive atmosphere. The tone of interim meetings is often more constructive and educational. During session, advocates are typically reacting to legislation and conversations are frequently focused on immediate policy decisions and competing priorities. During the interim, there is less urgency and noise. Advocates can focus on educating legislators about the realities of community association living, share the real-world impacts of recently enacted legislation and discuss potential policy solutions before bills are even introduced. CAI offers a free online course on the fundamentals of community associations, which is an excellent resource that advocates can share with lawmakers and staff to help build foundational knowledge. Without the pressures of an active legislative session, conversations can be more meaningful and relationships can deepen.
Building and strengthening relationships with officials. Effective advocacy is rooted in trust, credibility, and ongoing communication. By maintaining contact throughout the year, advocates position themselves as trusted resources on community association issues. These relationships can prove invaluable when lawmakers have questions, are considering legislation that may impact associations, or need constituent perspectives. The interim is a time for CAI members to identify existing connections with elected officials and share these relationships with CAI and their LACs. Personal connections can open doors and ensure community association voices are heard when important decisions are made.
When the legislature adjourns sine die, advocacy does not. The months between legislative sessions provide some of the best opportunities to educate policymakers, showcase the value of community associations, and strengthen relationships that can make meaningful differences when lawmakers return to the capital.
