Sample Lobbyist Position Paper

Black type is taken from an actual lobbyist position paper used by a participant in the Montana Youth Legislature. Comments in (parentheses and Red type) explain what each section of the paper is all about. These words in red are NOT generally included in an actual paper.

(Name and Delegation of Lobbyist):
Jane Doe
Two Dot High School

(Introduction of organization and position of lobbyist):
I represent concerned citizens who oppose government waste of tax dollars. We support efficient use of tax money to help the majority of the American people and will speak out against mismanagement and fraud.

(Facts, opinions, statistics and arguments):
In the US economic system, private businesses are required to balance their budgets, file accurate reports, pay taxes to the government, minimize debt and make up for losses as soon as possible, or they cannot compete in the economic system. They go out of business.

On the other hand, the federal government is hypocritical, hiding excessive expenses, mismanaging cash and paying too much money for goods and services. Federal procurement offices have been known to spend $91 each for 3 cent wood screws, easily found at a local hardware store. Saving budget dollars is not considered, and losses are just added to the National Debt. Where is the accountability?

Because politicians and bureaucrats are not spending their own personal funds, they are unconcerned about mismanaging public tax revenue. American workers labor from January 1st through May 5th just to pay their taxes! Some of these funds are used to support programs that do not benefit the American Public. Some examples are:

• $49 million to build and furnish a rock and roll museum
• $1.9 million for an "All Ireland genealogy project."
• $500,000 to study the effect of cigarette smoking on dogs.
• $19 million to study whether or not belching of cows and other livestock harms the ozone layer.
• $46,000 to determine how long it takes to cook an egg.
• $170,000 to fund a Dunkin' Donuts store in Oklahoma
• $2 million to renovate one of the House restaurants

(Summary of arguments and call to action):
As shown by the entries on the above list, the government seems to feel that they may use American tax dollars any way they wish. As the American public, we should protect ourselves against this corruption. We must start with our state and local government. By keeping an eye on our elected officials, we will let them know that we do not appreciate mismanagement of our hard earned money.

(Statement of Lobbyist's position on the issues):
I will support legislation that makes wise use of taxpayer dollars, and oppose bills which are wasteful.

(Disclosure statement):
This document is in compliance with the Montana YMCA Youth Legislature Lobbyist Disclosure Policy.

(original paper written by Carrie Jo Peterson, content revised and edited for use on the web)