Associate Legislative Counsel

OBJECTIVE

Associate Legislative Counsel Objective

To protect and promote the interests of Farm Bureau members specifically, and agricultural and rural interests in general, as a spokesperson for Michigan agriculture on state issues. To be accomplished by implementation of Farm Bureau policies through the enactment and administration of state legislation and regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate Legislative Counsel Responsibilities

Assist with the development of policy at the county and state level. Disseminate information and training on policy development techniques and "probable issues" to individual Farm Bureau members, county Farm Bureaus, county policy development and other committees, state Policy Development Committee, State Young Farmer Committee, Michigan Farm Bureau Commodity Advisory Committees and other state committees, Regional Representatives, and voting delegates at the Michigan Farm Bureau annual meeting that will result in sound policies which are the platform for all Farm Bureau activities.

Assist in the conduct of statewide, regional, or district policy development meetings for county Farm Bureau leaders.

Research appropriate issues and prepare training materials and information on issues to assist in the development of policies.

Assist in coordinating activities of state and county Farm Bureau officers and board of directors, Michigan Farm Bureau Legislative Committee, Michigan Farm Bureau staff, county Public Policy Committees, state and county Young Farmer Committees, and other county and state committees that may be involved in implementing Farm Bureau policies on state issues.

Assist in the planning of and conduct the MFB Lansing Legislative Seminar.

Implement policies through research, preparation and promotion of or opposition to legislation and/or regulation on state issues as developed by the membership and determined by voting delegates at the state annual meeting and as interpreted by the state Board of Directors. Work with the Governor and executive office staff, the Michigan Legislature and legislative staff, directors, deputies and staff of departments, agencies, commissions, boards, and other organized groups and individuals to get legislation or rules enacted or defeated.  Review all bills within subject matter introduced for potential impact on agriculture and Farm Bureau policy.

QUALIFICATIONS

Associate Legislative Counsel Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree required, with preference for an agriculture related field or public affairs management.

Working knowledge of state legislative and regulatory processes normally attained from two to four years’ experience in the public policy arena.

Experience with a personal computer.

Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to make presentations to a wide range of audiences.

Preferred

Experience in agriculture related field preferred.

Note: Farm Bureau offers a full benefit package including medical, dental, vision, and 401K.

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