Fully half of their one-hour session was spent acknowledging and applauding groups in the gallery. Each group left as soon as they’d been acknowledged, and soon the packed gallery was empty. The process reminds me of commendations — a nice, well-intentioned thing that’s gotten out of control.
I don’t get it. What’s the point of any of those groups showing up? Showing up so that it is pointed out that they are in the room and then leaving? Bizarre. I’d sooner stay home and sleep in.
Many of the groups come down at the suggestion of their leaders or lobbyists to see their legislators and to express suppport for/opposition to legislation or on issues in general. Others may be school groups brought by their teachers.
Garden Clubs, Conservation Network, VEA, Chambers of Commerce, bankers Association, Beer Wholesalers, AFL-CIO, NRA, Virginians Against Handgun Violence and many others do this.
They also tour the Capitol, Executive Mansion, visit committee meetings as well. The adult groups also may sponsor legislative receptions in the evening before returning home (sometimes 3 to 6 hours away). They are letting their legislators know they are watching. It’s all part of the process.
It’s not for someone who’d “rather stay home and sleep in”–not that there’s anything wrong with that (to borrow a phrase).