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27 February 2019 Science Policy Begins at Home: Grassroots Advocacy at the State and Local Level
Meaghan L. Pimsler, Rayda K. Krell, Marianne Alleyne, Thomas Anderson, Ashley Kennedy, Tim Durham
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Abstract

Grassroots advocacy is accessible for all scientists and can be an important component to shape local, state, and even federal science policy. Those best positioned to advocate for science are scientists themselves, especially if they have training on how to effectively shape science-informed policy. Entomologists that take an active role in policy can help shape public perception, regulations, and legislation related to entomology. In this paper, we show, through advocacy case studies, that grassroots advocacy by individuals or members of a professional society, rather than top-down edicts, has a successful track record leading to positive outcomes. By focusing on the local level, entomologists can successfully develop personal relationships with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to better define their shared interests regarding entomological issues. We provide tips for success in science advocacy at local and state levels. Policy advocacy at the local level may suit many Entomological Society of America's (ESA) members who have a desire to personally promote the science of entomology and ensure adequate funding but are not able or interested to be involved at the federal level. Local science advocacy can, thus, complement and personalize the engagement ESA is concurrently pursuing at the federal level.

© The Author(s) 2019. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Meaghan L. Pimsler, Rayda K. Krell, Marianne Alleyne, Thomas Anderson, Ashley Kennedy, and Tim Durham "Science Policy Begins at Home: Grassroots Advocacy at the State and Local Level," Annals of the Entomological Society of America 112(2), 79-84, (27 February 2019). https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/say054
Received: 10 September 2018; Accepted: 26 November 2018; Published: 27 February 2019
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KEYWORDS
case study
forensic entomology
grassroot
science policy
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