The Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACAs) is one of the many important tools within the policymaking toolkit. Under the Act, Congress can designate a “FACA” to bring together public and private sector decisionmakers to meet on a regular basis to recommend actions on specific policy topics. Through this structure, the public has access to the meetings, whether by attending, submitting comments, or viewing the meeting minutes after each convening.
Organizations that strategically engage in FACAs not only gain a seat at the table but also shape the very policies that impact their sectors and constituencies. The following reasons demonstrate why engaging in FACAs are so important if there is a policy priority an organization wants to influence:
Ongoing Engagement: For organizations, FACAs offer a unique avenue to influence federal decisions for a much longer and more consistent time period than ad hoc advocacy efforts. Unlike public comment periods that only allow one bite at the apple or lobbying efforts that often occur in reaction to a decision, FACAs enable stakeholders to provide input throughout an ongoing period of time and invest time and perspective into the implementation process.
Relationship Building: FACAs are not just about influencing individual policies, they are also about relationship-building. Advisory committees are generally composed of a mix of federal agency staff, industry leaders, NGOs, and academia, creating a collaborative space for long-term partnerships. The partners selected to sit on the FACA all have deep knowledge of the relevant policy issue and generally come at the problem with different perspectives. For organizations looking to expand their networks and influence agency decisions, FACAs are an excellent way to build relationships with other decisionmakers who also care deeply about the issue at hand.
Policy Development: Agencies often rely on advisory committees to source information and perspectives that inform broader strategies and policies. Organizations that consistently contribute valuable insights can establish themselves as go-to resources for agencies, ensuring their input is not only heard but actively sought.
Engaging in FACAs requires a strategic and long-term approach. FACAs are regulated under strict guidelines to maintain transparency and avoid conflicts of interest, and organizations must be mindful of these rules. Understanding the charter of each FACA, the scope of its influence, and the decision-making process are key steps.
Tracking FACAs means staying informed about new committee formations, meeting schedules, and agendas. By maintaining an active watch on relevant FACAs, organizations can identify opportunities to contribute when their expertise is most relevant. This might mean nominating a representative to serve on a committee, submitting written comments, or attending public meetings to present data or perspectives.
FACAs offer an often overlooked, yet impactful, tool for organizations to shape policy outcomes, better understand how programs are being implemented, and share unique perspectives. By investing time into engaging with these advisory bodies, organizations not only ensure their voices are heard but also shape policies that are important to them.
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