About the LA for the Day Program
Delegate Dawn M. Adams recognized the need for increased civic engagement in the legislative process that would be meaningful to citizens. During the 2018 General Assembly session, she developed the "LA for the Day" program to allow anyone to be a part of the legislative process without the need for a major time commitment or in-depth knowledge of how bills become law.
As a participant in the "LA for the Day" program, you will have a one-on-one experience at the General Assembly to connect the dots on how policies shape our society and affect our daily lives. No matter if you're seven, or eighty-seven years old, we want citizens to be involved and see the legislative process up close.
Deadline is December 21st
Every "LA for the Day" experience is catered to the age, knowledge, and experience of the participant. No two days are the same during the General Assembly session; however, we do have structure to the day and you can expect the following:
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Shadowing Delegate Dawn M. Adams' Legislative Assistant (the "LA") who will guide you through the process of how bills become law, how bills are killed, and how the General Assembly is structured and organized.
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Watch session in-person in the House Gallery (if space is available) or watch from the office on the live video stream.
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See firsthand how lobbyists and activists communicate their support or opposition of legislation during session.
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You're welcome to help keep the wheels turning in our office with light administrative work (filing, data entry, folding and stuffing envelopes). This experience is not required as we do have an administrative assistant to help with these tasks, but extra help is always appreciated!
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Participation in this program is eligible for volunteer hours, and some students have been able to take the day off as an excused absence. Please check with your school's policies first.
Age Requirement / Limit:
There is no age requirement or limit to participate in this program. Students under the age of 16 must be accompanied with parent at all times. Students 16 to 18 years of age must have parental release form and have transportation to and from the building. Did you have fun and want to come back? If there's an open slot and you'd like to be the LA for the Day again, we'd love to have you!
Hours and Availability:
The program will begin January 14th and last until February 22nd. Half day options are available from Mondays thru Thursdays and encouraged for children under the age of 16. If something comes up and you are unable to attend, please let the office know as soon as possible so we can contact applicants on the waiting list. The available schedule options are as follows:
Mondays - Thursdays:
Full Day - 9am to 3pm
Half Day AM - 9am to 1pm
Half Day PM - 11am to 3pm
*Session begins at noon Monday - Thursday unless otherwise announced**S
Fridays:
Full Day - 9am to 3pm
*No half day option for Fridays due to session typically beginning before noon.
Can Anyone Participate?
Preference is given on a first-come, first-served basis to constituents in the 68th House District; however we do welcome guests outside the District if there are available openings. Delegate Adams developed this program during the 2018 General Assembly session in response to constituent requests for engagement opportunities. At this time, we aren't aware of any other offices at the Virginia Capitol that have this or a similar program. Feel free to reach out to your elected representative to start a similar offering.
Want to be an LA for the Day with a friend?
You may partner with a friend for this program but no more than two people can participate on the same day at the same time due to limited office space.
Parking and What's for Lunch?
Once you're accepted into the program and assigned a date and time, you'll be provided additional information on where to park, how to find the office, lunch options, and suggested items to bring with you. If you have additional questions, please contact Maureen@DelegateAdams.com or 804-698-1068.
Apply to be an LA for the Day
Please complete the required form to participate in this program. Due to high level of interest, constituents will be given preferential placement on a first-come, first-served basis. Not all applicants will be chosen; however, if you are not scheduled this year, we will keep you in mind for 2020!
