Mobilization of membership for legislative action

Background and structure of the New York State Occupational Therapy Association and the committees assigned to implement legislative procedures are explored, followed by a description of the methods used to mobilize the membership to secure legislation to license occupational therapists. Workshops were given to educate the membership in the legislative process and a communication system was set up among the members, state legislators, other health agencies, and special interest groups. Support of legislators for the licensure bill was solicited, as well as support from others contacted through the communication system. The members continued to solicit support and to monitor the progress of the bill during a two-year period. The bill was passed in August 1975. Based on their recent experiences with the legislative process. NYSOTA concludes that to secure licensure logical and judicious organization, education, constant feedback of information among participants, and hard work, determination, perseverance, and dedication of the group involved are necessary.