NCSL Legislate Staff Week.

AuthorHeining, Jon
PositionDECEMBER 10-14 - National Conference of State Legislatures

Why aren't you doing any work?"

A constituent asked me that question several years ago. It was early in the session, and he was upset because both chambers of the Texas Legislature were meeting for very short periods with several days in between. Given that I had just worked through the previous night on language for a bill, I knew that the first response that popped into my head was probably not going to be appropriate, so I struggled to find a better, more informative reply that would not result in my termination.

I asked the constituent if he had ever considered what goes into even a small wedding, from the best man writing his toast, to the artisans who make the bride's bouquet, to the cooks who prepare the reception buffet. I reminded him that those folks are working--often furiously--out of sight of the bride, the groom and the guests. I also pointed out that, while what the bride and groom did during the ceremony was the most important part of the wedding, all those things happening in the background were critical to the success of the event. I assured him that, although he couldn't see it when he tuned in to watch the Legislature on TV, we were indeed hard at work ensuring that lawmakers would be successful in doing the people's business over the coming months.

The constituent was wholly and unreservedly unconvinced by my metaphor, but I've used it to some success since.

Many of you working behind the scenes, at times furiously, in your legislatures can probably relate, and I proudly wish you a happy Legislative Staff Week. Twice a year, NCSL puts a spotlight on all the folks like you who help to ensure the success of our legislatures across the nation.

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