PATRICIA KLEE

While I understand the angst that some have towards lobbyist and potential pressure that may come from them, I believe that the benefit outweighs any negativity we all associate with the dreaded word LOBBYIST. As an ex-State Rep, I can’t tell you how invaluable it was to have to ability to have the information give to all of us from Lobbyists. I never took anything that any single group gave to me as gospel but it gave me a spring board to get a better feel and understanding for any complicated issue. The same is true for hearing from Municipal leaders throughout the state. We need to hear how a bill will affect even a single community. While I know regardless what others may say, being the best informed legislator takes a lot of hard work and given the number of bills that you have to read and understand you need content experts there at the ready to help give you information. While I agree you can’t take everything given to you at face value, it does allow you to start a conversation and begin your own research. I found that I may not have agreed with the data given to me but it often times gave me a new perspective and at least allowed me to see another side of the same coin. As legislators we want to do the best possible job but we can’t know everything on everything. A lobbyist while at times truly annoying can and will be your best resource which is why I really oppose any changes to current standards. The public as well as the legislators need to hear their testimony as we do from any Municipal leader, state legislator, or the general public. Please vote agains stifling freedom of speech by Lobbyists, municipal leaders or anyone as they try to provide information to the legislative body.. thank you for taking my testimony and allowing be to give it electronically. Being there in person is always the most effective way however, my husband is on his last days and while this is an extremely important issue, family will Always come first. Thank you again