The Legislative program is designed to increase member influence and effective participation in the legislative process. NCPA's innovative grassroots legislative program starts with direct participation by our Utility Directors. We endeavor to build close working relationships with state legislators and their staffs, the Governor and representatives of his/her administration, and state regulators and their staff. NCPA's program also involves working directly with the energy / utilities / and natural resources committees of the state legislature. NCPA's legislative strategy has been to maximize the effectiveness of "joint action" by its members through cooperation and advocacy -- helped by any one of the more than 30 elected officials representing NCPA's 15 members in local communities and special districts.