Local Science Engagement Network Community

Engaging policymakers does not stop when a legislative session adjourns. In our latest LSEN Community Learning Forum webinar, Engaging State Policymakers Between Legislative Sessions, participants explored how scientists and engineers can build meaningful, year-round relationships with state lawmakers and decision-makers. 

Science policy expert Rachel Owen shared strategies for engaging policymakers outside of formal legislative sessions through interim committees, district meetings, site visits, and informal conversations. She emphasized that some of the most important policy conversations happen before bills are introduced and highlighted the value of positioning yourself as a trusted, nonpartisan resource over time. 

Sean Gallagher from the AAAS Office of Government Relations shared insights into how AAAS engages with state and federal officials and discussed approaches scientists and engineers can apply within their own communities. Kate Stoll from the AAAS Center for Scientific Evidence in Public Issues discussed strategies for building trusted relationships between scientists and policymakers and creating opportunities for scientific evidence to inform decision-making. 

Strategies and themes discussed during the session included: 

The session also highlighted emerging work from the Utah LSEN, including the development of Science & Technology notes focused on issues relevant to the state and efforts to strengthen connections between scientists and policymakers. 

You can view the webinar recording, slides, and additional resources below. 

This conversation is part of LSEN’s ongoing effort to support scientists, engineers, and STEMM professionals in strengthening local engagement and connecting scientific expertise with community and policy discussions.