Eagle Forum set for Legislature

AMERICAN FORK — As the state's 104 lawmakers gather today for the opening session of the 2004 Legislature, they will once again be the target of citizen lobbyists pushing Utah Eagle Forum issues, just two days after the group's annual convention in Utah County.

"United we are strong" is the rallying cry forum members heard on Saturday during the group's annual convention. The Eagle Forum is arguably the state's most powerful citizen-driven government watchdog group.

Eagle Forum President Gayle Ruzicka went right to the heart of the matter Saturday, calling for volunteer troops to spend time lobbying lawmakers during the 45-day legislative session that will run through March 3.

The forum has earned a don't-cross-us reputation among politicians — many of whom take great pains not to upset the group and its likely-to-vote members.

The group relies entirely on clout when lobbying for or against issues. There are no expensive dinners or other gifts. Instead, the organization relies on its members to push its views.

"What do I have to offer?" Ruzicka says. "I'm not getting paid."

The key to the Eagle Forum lobbying effort is a "telephone tree" used to coordinate volunteer efforts. The tree is a networked system where volunteers place calls to like-minded people to solicit involvement on issues of concern.

Those contacted are asked to call their legislators — and a few other people who will do the same. The process creates a snowballing effect.

"I'm amazed how many people are reached," Ruzicka said.

At the convention, the group passed envelopes through the crowd to solicit donations. Ruzicka said the funds they raise barely help cover the group's needs.

"We scratch by," she said. "We never have enough money."

During the session, Ruzicka said 10 to 20 forum volunteers attend meetings, take notes, voice opinions and talk one-on-one with lawmakers.

"There's a lot to be done," she said.

Forum issues range from tax rates to parental rights.

Conventiongoers had hoped to hear Daren Jensen, whose family last summer became embroiled in a parents'-rights tiff with Utah's Department of Child and Family Services. Work conflicts prevented Jensen from attending a planned panel discussion.