“2nd Hellenic American State Legislators Forum” Webinar Panel Discussion

Join us for EMBCA’s "2nd Hellenic American State Legislators Forum” Webinar Panel Discussion on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at 2 P.M. EST/ 9 P.M. Athens EEST. The panel discussion will be introduced and moderated by Lou Katsos EMBCA’s President. Our distinguished panel will include Rhode Island State Senator Lou Raptakis; Delaware State Senator Spiros Mantzavinos; Arizona State Representative Stacy Travers; and New York State Assemblyman John Lemondes.

American state legislators play a pivotal role in shaping the laws and policies that directly impact citizens’ daily lives, serving as critical agents of democracy and connecting the government with local communities. Their grassroots involvement ensures a closer relationship between lawmakers and constituents, fostering governance that reflects the diverse needs and voices of the people.

State legislators are responsible for drafting and passing laws on key issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, public safety, and environmental policies. These areas are often more directly influenced by state governments than the federal government, underscoring the significant authority legislators wield in determining public policy. For example, decisions about school funding, minimum wage laws, and public transportation systems largely fall within the jurisdiction of state legislatures. By addressing issues at the local level, legislators ensure their states’ unique needs and circumstances are prioritized.

The grassroots aspect of state legislatures is particularly important. State legislators are elected from relatively small districts, making them accessible to their constituents. They frequently interact with citizens through town halls, public forums, and community events, creating opportunities to hear firsthand about residents’ concerns and aspirations. This accessibility fosters a sense of trust and accountability and allows legislators to shape policies that resonate with the specific values and needs of their districts.

Furthermore, state legislators often serve as a bridge between local governments and the federal government. They advocate for their communities, lobbying for federal funding or resources while tailoring national policies to fit their states’ contexts. Their ability to balance competing interests and address grassroots concerns highlights their importance as facilitators of democracy.

In addition, the work of state legislators becomes even more evident during crises such as natural disasters or economic downturns. Their grassroots connections enable them to respond swiftly to emergencies, advocate for targeted relief, and implement state-level initiatives that address urgent local needs.

Join us as we have a discussion with some of them of Hellenic descent about their main role of designing, drafting, and passing laws on a state level but also helping shape national as well as international policy in the East Mediterranean, and beyond as well as their thoughts on the recent U.S. national and State elections.

EMBCA is an organization exempt from Federal Income Tax under Internal Revenue (IRC) Section 501(c)(3), classified as a public charity, and qualifies to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Section 2055, 2106, or 2522 . Donors can deduct contributions they make under IRC Section 170. Thank you all again for your continuing enthusiasm and support of our events !!