With the combined voices of its 3,000 members, the Long Island Association is heard in Albany and regularly affects the political and public policy process on behalf of the business and civic communities. This brings tangible value to its members, particularly the small business owners, in representation, advocacy, programs and services.

The Long Island Association represents the interests of the community before government and is directly involved in the development of its annual legislative agenda. During regular trips to Albany, members of the LIA Legislative Affairs Department speak directly with legislators about issues affecting the Island's business community. In addition, two receptions are held each year, one in Albany and one on Long Island, to provide opportunities for LIA members to speak directly with elected officials themselves.

LIA members also have the opportunity to affect public policy as active members of 12 other committees and councils, including Building/Real Estate Committee, Education Committee, Environment/Energy Committee, Health Committee, Insurance Committee, Not-For-Profits Committee, Small Business Council, Tax Policy Committee, Transportation Committee, Tourism Committee, Retail Committee and World Trade Council. Eligibility for participation on these committees begins at the Small Business membership package level or higher.

Those who wish to lobby on their own behalf can learn the tricks of the trade through special Lobbying Workshops, available to those who join at the Small Business Plus membership level or higher. LIA Vice President for Legislative and Economic Affairs Mitchell H. Pally led the first workshop in November 1998, and outlined the best approaches and tactics to use when bringing an issue to a legislator's attention. Members who attended gave testimonial such as, ""Now I know where to start and how to get my voice heard." These lobbying workshops are held on a regular basis and will be announced in LIA publications and on the website Calendar of Events and Legislative Calendar of Events.

Lobbying is also provided on an individual basis for those members who have joined at the Corporate Plus level and above.

For more information, contact the LIA Legislative Affairs Department at 516-493-3004.