Ten Rules for Influencing Policy

 By David C. Lewis, MD

Throughout my career, I've worked to create effective treatment policies for alcoholism, drug addiction (including illicit drugs) and an overall better national drug policy. Occasionally, a colleague will ask for advice about how a substance abuse expert should work with the political system to change policy. Here is what I've learned -- and I hope it's helpful to you:

Ten Rules for Influencing Policy  

1. Don't have nightmares or lose sleep about a terrible policy -- do something about it! Become active. Interacting with our political system is an obligation -- and an education.

2. Be fair and be objective. Objectivity gains credibility in the political system. Science is your ally -- don't misuse it. Do not misrepresent science by only selecting data that supports your position. Never use "bad science" as a basis for policy recommendations.

3. Be humble. You may be an expert, but you probably provide neither the votes nor the money that count in politics. Don't be a sore loser when a politician doesn't follow your advice.

4. Keep your introductory message simple, preferably to one side of the page. State what you want, why you want it and what evidence, endorsements or constituencies bolster your recommendations.

5. Become an information resource. Let them ask you. Politicians are used to being "sold." They are used to hearing a pitch. You want to do better. Form a collaborative relationship with their staff by being available to provide them with the information they need.

6. Be persistent. Persistence is often the key to success. Politicians are used to lobbyists who are effective because they form relationships over time. You must do the same. Follow-up is key.

7. Think local as well as national. If you want to change national policy, take advantage of your access to locally elected officials. You need not go alone. Bring influential leaders from your community with you (i.e., business community, law, clergy, and the recovery community). You are a constituent and politicians take that seriously.

8. You don't have to change the law to change the policy. A change in the application of the law may be sufficient.

9. Don't declare a victory that isn't. While politics is the art of compromise, don't accept a "compromise" that subverts your real goals.

10. Don't make your case by belittling others. Stay completely away from mean-spiritedness and partisan bickering.

David C. Lewis, MD, is the former Director of the Brown University Center for Alcohol and Addictions Studies. This commentary appeared in the June 2001 issue of The Brown University Digest of Addiction Theory and Application.