Each of the issues listed in the Current Issues section of this website is discussed in some depth. Please take time to familiarize yourself with these issues and select as many as you feel comfortable with to talk about in your visit with your State Senator and/or State Representative.

At your meetings, always first explain who you are, the Company or Association you are with, and your interest in boating (i.e. 'I am a boat owner"; "I am a boat dealer"; "I own ABC Marina in XYZ, Ohio", etc.).

Then, feel free to discuss briefly the issues of particular interest to you, whether or not they are included in this briefing summary. If your Senator or Representative happens to sit on a Committee, which would be addressing a particular issue, then it is very important to touch on that issue. Face-to-face meetings are really easy and simple. They normally do not last more than a few minutes. Virtually every Senator and State Representative will go out of their way to indicate they are glad to see you... and, they genuinely are!

One more thing. If your Senator or State Representative asks you a question about an issue and you are not sure of the answer, just say: "I'm not sure and I don't want to misinform you. Can I get back to you with the correct information?" Their response will always be 'sure' and it opens the door to continued communication for you in the future. Relay any such questions to the BAO staff so we can get you the answer you need.

There's nothing complicated about meeting your elected representative, so relax and enjoy the experience.