Pub. 15 2016-2017 Issue 4

N E W J E R S E Y C O A L I T I O N O F A U T O M O T I V E R E T A I L E R S I S S U E N O . 1 , 2 0 1 7 30 new jersey auto retailer different perspectives as possible. It’s not uncommon for legislation to be amended or redrafted — and some- times even held — based on the input of constituents with intimate knowl- edge of an issue. It’s often specific rec- ommendations, therefore, that have the greatest impact on the process. If a concern relates to a bill that has been scheduled for hearing in committee, it often helps to reach out to the sponsor and committee members with those concerns or recommendations as far in advance of the meeting as possible. Q3: Every member of the Legislature applies their own values to the pro- cess of considering legislation. I start my consideration of issues with the following in mind: we need to make New Jersey affordable, both for our families and our businesses; we need to create opportunities for students to succeed, and for residents to build fulfilling careers in a vibrant State economy. Senator Bob Smith (D-17) Chairman, SenateEnvironment & Energy Committee Assembly Republican Budget Officer Q1: I prefer that my constituents, both individuals and businesses contact me through my legislative email account. Email gives them direct access to my office and allows for me or my staff to respond in an expeditious way. Q2: Providing me with detailed back- ground information and, if appropri- ate, scientific information, helps me get a better understanding of the issue they are writing to me about. Q3: Depending on the topic, different factors would inf luence my position. As the chairman of the Environment and Energy committee, science, data and background information would i n f luence my posit ion on topics coming before my committee. As for individual constituents who write to me, I am inf luenced by the details they provide to support their opinion on the topic they are concerned about. Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker (D-16) Q1: By far, the best way to com- municate is face-to-face and I have thoroughly enjoyed the many times I’ve toured businesses in my district, talking to both owners and employees. These meetings are incredibly valu- able and allow me to see for myself and understand all of the challenges and rewards of operating a business in New Jersey. Of course, it is not al- ways possible to set up a meeting, so a detailed letter or email is also highly effective. I carefully read everything sent to my office and take your concerns very seriously whenever I am considering a particular piece of legislation. Q2: I’m a scientist and I want to know the facts. I make my decisions based upon evidence and not political rhetoric so make sure to include not just your position but all of the evi- dence supporting it. Additionally, if you really want to be effective, let me know the evidence that will be used by someone who has a different position on this particular issue AND explain to me why that particular position is incorrect. There are many types of evidence to consider, including what has and has not worked in the past, what other states have done to address this issue, why the current situation is problematic, and why a legislative change is necessary not just for you, but for the larger business community in New Jersey. Q3: The number one factor is, again, the evidence supporting the particular issue. However, I don’t make deci- sions in a vacuum and my number one priority is representing the people who live, work, and raise their family in my district.