Public Policy Positions

At its local, state and national levels, the League of Women Voters carefully studies the issues of the day to determine its priorities and develop its Public Policy Positions. Throughout the years, the League has engaged in studies on:

Representative Government
International Relations
Natural Resources
Social Policy

Beginning in the 1960s the League prepared the “Impact of Issues” documenting League Public Policy Positions. Every two years, the LWV-US revises the document based on member input and approval. This “Impact on Issues” document is designed to help League members use the National positions to act in their own communities.

It is important to understand that public policy positions at all levels require members to study as many sides of the issue as possible and then come to a consensus on it to form a position. Working through a grassroots process ensures that our advocacy is considered by a broad range of people across the social and political spectrum; that it is understood by members; and that it makes sense within the current political environment.

This chart summarizes the positions and priorities for Leagues at the national, state and local level.  Click on the links to see the full list of policies.

Legislative Priorities for 2024

*LWV - MP uses National and AZ policies for its advocacy and priorities

The League does not act or advocate on any issue unless it has a public policy on the issue.

How the League Develops a Public Policy Position

This process of study and consensus on policies is unique to the League of Women Voters. Leagues at every level vote on suggested topics to study and establish a committee to research the selected topics. The collected information is sent to members for discussion.The committee then arrives at a consensus to present to the members a public policy position for adoption.  

The process of arriving at a position is accomplished in three steps:

A. Issues to be studied are identified at the Annual Meeting of the local, state or national LWV.

B. A research committee gathers information for League members to use when they consider the issue. This takes the form of a proposal for a public policy position. In developing the public policy position, consensus is gained by general and widespread education and agreement on the issue. A discussion guide helps educate members weigh the pros and cons of the position. 

C. The public policy position is then sent to the appropriate boards to obtain member approval and adoption.

LWVMP Public Policy Position Studies

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