A Maine Legislature changed by the pandemic could challenge lobbyists in 2021
The 2021 Maine legislative session will present a number of unprecedented challenges for lobbyists. Since the coronavirus pandemic began, the State House has been closed to everyone but essential workers, and most meetings, committee votes, and public hearings will be held virtually, making it more complicated for lobbyists to connect with legislators. Preti Flaherty lobbyist Bruce Gerrity discusses the challenges of this new dynamic.
An Excerpt
Bruce Gerrity, a senior partner at lobbying powerhouse Preti Flaherty who has represented auto dealers and insurance companies, said lawmakers working more from home or separated from the lobby will challenge him and his colleagues in connecting and getting points across.
“Even if you’re doing your best to focus on the Legislature, other things intrude,” Gerrity said over the whine of Errigal, a German Shepherd puppy he recently acquired who was determined to leave the room his owner was working in.