May 2020 Washington Letter

This Month's Articles

Federal Government

Did ABA Day Digital 2020 Have an Impact?

Last month, the ABA held its first fully online digital advocacy event called ABA Day Digital 2020. During this two-day event, ABA and state bar leaders, members of the legal profession, and thousands of participants used social media, teleconferences, and digital advocacy tools to discuss and advocate for our four primary and two secondary issues. Did our collective advocacy have an impact? Early results look promising.

Federal Government

Historic Rule Change in the House

In a historic rule change on May 15, 2020, Chairman Jim McGovern (D-MA) of the House Rules Committee introduced H. Res. 965 to authorize remote voting by proxy in the House of Representatives and remote committee proceedings during the COVID-19 public health emergency for a 45-day period. This 45-day period may be extended for an additional 45 days or terminated earlier, depending on the status of the emergency. Proxy voting had been allowed in House committees previously, but never on the House floor in its 231-year history.

Federal Government

Bipartisan Legislation Passed Helps Americans and Businesses Impacted by the Coronavirus

The congressional response to the COVID-19 epidemic has been swift and impactful. Within one month of the national emergency declaration, Congress closed its doors to the public and suspended its scheduled legislative agenda so it could focus entirely on getting relief to the American people and businesses impacted by the rapid spread of the virus.

Legislation & Lobbying

Advocacy in the Time of COVID-19

The COVID-19 global pandemic has forced our world to maintain productivity while working remotely. During the past two months, we have all had a learning curve, but we now have more insights into what works and what does not. This is also true for advocacy efforts, where the challenge to be heard in congressional and policymaking offices has become harder.

American Bar Association TM American Bar Association

May 2020 Washington Letter

The Latest COVID-19 Relief Bill

This Month's Articles

Did ABA Day Digital 2020 Have an Impact?

Historic Rule Change in the House

Bipartisan Legislation Passed Helps Americans and Businesses Impacted by the Coronavirus

Advocacy in the Time of COVID-19

Archive

About the Washington Letter

Current Washington Letter