 Why We Lobby
Fulfilling our mission as advocates for children
Part of the National PTA threefold mission is to speak on behalf of all children and youth before governmental bodies and other organizations. These advocacy and lobbying measures include mobilizing individuals, local and state units to work with the National PTA in molding specific government programs, policies, and priorities.
Wisconsin PTA also advocates in Madison on issues that are relevant to the children of Wisconsin. The issues we lobby on are determined by the adopted National PTA Resolutions and Positions, our own WI PTA Resolutions adopted during WI PTA Conventions, our Basic Policy and also our Legislative Program Guidelines.
In order to maintain a nonprofit status under federal rules, the National PTA is nonpartisan and works to direct its efforts at members of both political parties in order to enact change. When PTA officers or lobbyists participate in legislative activities that educate lawmakers about officially adopted PTA positions, or support a particular piece of legislation that is in agreement with the National PTA Legislative Program, it is done on a strictly nonpartisan basis.
A nonprofit organization, like the PTA, is considered to be engaging in lobbying efforts if it either contacts or urges the public to contact lawmakers for the purpose of proposing, supporting, or opposing legislation. The amount of money the National PTA can use for these purposes is also strictly regulated under the federal non-profit status rules.
Click here to see Frequently Asked Questions about lobbying and advocacy for non-profits.
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