Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania

GRIP - Grassroots Information Program

For the Broadband Cable Industry to have a voice in the political process, cable operators must become players in that process. As of member of the cable industry, you have a unique opportunity to impact the future of your profession by joining the BCAP Grassroots Information Program (GRIP).

To participate, you must be willing to contact your legislator to discuss issues affecting the Broadband Cable industry. BCAP will provide you with information about important legislative issues and the political process. On average, participants devote 10 hours per year to the GRIP Program. If you have questions, contact Brian Barno.

GRIP Responsibilities:

• Maintain a personal or professional relationship with a Pennsylvania legislator.
• Keep in touch with your legislator to foster the relationship.
• Stay abreast of legislative issues.
• Read BCAP legislative news and bulletins.
• Call, visit or write your legislator when needed.
• Present BCAP's viewpoints regarding the Broadband Cable industry to your legislator.
• Invite and bring your legislator to special BCAP events.
• Deliver Cable PAC checks when asked.
• Attend legislative fundraisers and events on behalf of BCAP.

Every Broadband Cable Operator Can Make a Difference

Each year, thousands of bills are introduced in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. All Broadband Cable operators must get involved in the political process to communicate important issues to our legislators. If we do not speak up, we will be left out of the process. It's that simple.

It's easy to become involved. To a large extent, legislators base decisions upon communications they receive from constituents. Legislators' decisions are fueled by a want and need to effectively serve constituents - and increase chances of re-election.

In some cases, BCAP members need to communicate with officials from other branches of government, including the Pennsylvania Governor's office, the U.S. Congress and regulatory agencies like the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC). The same principles used to communicate with state legislators are used with these lawmakers.

After reviewing this guide, you'll be prepared to take action on issues important to the Broadband Cable industry. It's simple. It's fun and it's our responsibility to let legislators know where we stand. If we don't, no one else will.

For more GRIP information, visit our member's only section.