October Legislative Days Recap
When it comes to lawmaking, legislative sessions tend to get all the attention. During session, lawmakers hear testimony, meet in committee, and iron out the details of bills before (if all goes as planned) sending them off to the Governor’s desk for approval. It’s the final legislative stop in a sometimes years-long journey of turning an idea into law.
What the public tends not to see is all the times lawmakers meet between legislative sessions, during the so-called “interim.” Even when bills aren’t actively being passed, Senators and Representatives continue meeting to brainstorm, work through policies, and set the stage for the next session. These meetings are known as “Legislative Days.”
Legislative Days are an opportunity for stakeholders to meet directly with lawmakers, receive feedback on policy proposals, and work together to prepare for the work ahead. Legislative committees hold informational hearings with expert testimony (often from state agency officials), and learn about the various issues that organizations like OEC are pursuing. These meetings are just as much about education as they are coalition-building and session prep.
Earlier this month, OEC attended the first Legislative Days since last session ended. It came right on the heels of the special session, which was called after the legislature failed to pass a sweeping transportation package during the 2025 Legislative Session. That dynamic – in addition to mounting funding cuts from the federal government – led to an atmosphere that was equal parts fatigued and fired up.
“It’s been a long year,” says Thomas Baker, OEC’s longtime lobbyist who was also in attendance at the recent Legislative Days. “There are so many challenges facing the State with federal change and uncertain economic times ahead of us. But at the same time, legislators are focused and feel a sense of urgency to get things done.”
OEC and our coalition partners showed up to the October Legislative Days to speak up for climate-resilient communities, a clean electric grid, safe and plentiful drinking water, toxic-free environments, and transportation progress beyond the “band-aid bill” that was passed during the special session. Just days after, we also hosted a Legislator Education Event, focused on how we can work together to mount a meaningful defense against federal threats.
Needless to say, our work is just getting started. The next Legislative Days are in November (at which point policy proposals are due), followed by more in January, before the 2026 “short” legislative session kicks off in February. As always, we will be at the table every step of the way. To stay up-to-date with OEC’s legislative priorities in the lead-up to the 2026 legislative session, and for opportunities to speak up for the issues that matter most, be sure to sign up for our Grassroots Action and Information Network mailing list.
Volunteers needed, October 5th!
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