In addition to legislative advocacy there are three areas of expertise in which the firm may be of service:

1. Administrative and regulatory representation. Several state agencies, boards and panels affect your industry. Finance, insurance, real estate and many other sectors are subject to regulatory oversight. Norwood & Associates can help you navigate this often-confusing system of agencies, boards, regulators and rules.
2. Political action. Involvement in the political process may include donation programs, in-kind contributions, grassroots efforts and other services. If your corporate or association policy is to participate, or to encourage employee participation, in election activities, there are many options worth considering. Our firm can assist your company in creating and managing a Political Action Committee or program.
3. Grassroots campaigns. Occasionally, the Legislature engages an issue of particular importance to an entire industry, and your company may become involved in a public affairs campaign. Our firm is well equipped to guide you through this process. A public affairs campaign usually begins with building an alliance of stakeholders who support or oppose the legislative issue. The alliance then employs specialized PR consultants to research opinion, write briefing documents, conduct media briefings, host special events, create direct mail and advertising and launch Web sites. We protect your specific interests at every step, ensuring your company receives full participation and value.
   
   

An overwhelming majority of the bills we originate for our clients are signed into law. We labor equally hard, and with considerable success, to defeat bills which would work against our clients' interests.

Then there are the bills that contain both positive and negative implications. This is an area where there is no substitute for our substantial experience in managing complex issues. Negotiation and compromise become paramount - knowing when to push and when to wait. The art of the favorable compromise is a nuance appreciated by our clients.

You may find an issue that would benefit from legislation. If so, Norwood & Associates researches and writes the new law or regulation. The firm recruits a Legislator, and often more than one, to carry your bill. On this foundation, the advocates go to work, building an education campaign to win support among key staff members and a majority of Legislators. Discussions with supporting, opposing and concerned interests are held to uncover and deflect objections. You are thoroughly briefed on each step, and, if necessary, prepared for Legislator briefings and committee testimony.