{"id":7015,"date":"2023-05-24T08:13:27","date_gmt":"2023-05-24T13:13:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/?p=7015"},"modified":"2023-05-24T08:13:27","modified_gmt":"2023-05-24T13:13:27","slug":"may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\/","title":{"rendered":"May Updates: U.N. and State Edition"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><em>Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices (sppos) in the ELCA Advocacy Network this month. Full list and map of sppos <a href=\"https:\/\/download.elca.org\/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository\/ELCA_Advocacy_map_and_list.pdf?_ga=2.233997977.648384114.1611598146-2061210645.1599663542\">available<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#U.N.\">U.N.<\/a> | <a href=\"#CALIFORNIA\">CALIFORNIA<\/a> \u00a0| <a href=\"#MINNESOTA\">MINNESOTA<\/a> | <a href=\"#OHIO\">OHIO<\/a> | <a href=\"#PENNSYLVANIA\">PENNSYLVANIA<\/a> | <a href=\"#WASHINGTON\">WASHINGTON<\/a> | <a href=\"#WISCONSIN\">WISCONSIN<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"U.N.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC), United Nations, New York, N.Y. &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.elca.org\/lowc\">ELCA.org\/lowc<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Christine Mangale, Director<\/h4>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: 400\">\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">LOWC engaged and monitored the<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> \u201cInternational Dialogue Migration 2023- Leveraging Human Mobility in Support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">March 30-31<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda) marks the first-time migration has been fully recognized as a core development consideration by the international community. This dialogue will feed into the September SDG summit, which marks the halfway point of this 15-year mandated agenda. More information can be found <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">. A report has been prepared and can be shared upon request.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">LOWC hosted a small delegation of three individuals from the ELCA\u2019s Indigenous ministries team and partners for the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Peoples 17-28 April<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. . LOWC co-sponsored and participated in a side-event, \u201cBetween Neglect and Exploitation: The case of Indigenous Communities in the Peruvian Amazon,\u201d that focused on indigenous people from Peru and contained statements of solidarity and common struggle from indigenous people from Africa. \u00a0Additionally, the ELCA co-hosted a second side-event with Anglicans looking at \u201cThe Church and Indigenous Boarding Schools: A Time of Reckoning and Looking to the Future.\u201d <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">LOWC also monitored the Finance for Development meetings at the UN from 17-20 April, which is the \u201cways and means\u201d conversation for the delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), We are in a discernment process with LWF to add depth to this area of advocacy especially as the SDGs approach their halfway point in September.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"CALIFORNIA\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>California<\/h4>\n<h4>Lutheran Office of Public Policy &#8211; California (LOPP-CA) &#8211; <a href=\"\u201d\">lutheranpublicpolicyca.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Regina Banks, Director<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">It was great to connect with so many strong advocates at Pacifica Synod Assembly in Palm Desert, California on May 5-6. Thank you to everyone who stopped by and engaged with ELCA advocacy there. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Lutheran Office of Public Policy, California\u2019s (LOPPCA) annual Lutheran Lobby Day took place on Wednesday, May 17<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">! Lutherans from across the state gathered to advocate for the following bills:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SB 4 (Wiener)- <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Affordable housing development &amp; zoning reform. <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">This bill would streamline the process for religious organizations &amp; nonprofit colleges to develop affordable housing on their property.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AB 249 (Holden)-<\/span> <b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Clean drinking water in schools. <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">This bill would increase testing &amp; disclosure requirements of school drinking water lead levels. It would additionally allocate funding for testing filters &amp; infrastructure improvements to reduce\/eliminate lead in water.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AB 660 (Irwin)- <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Food waste, food date labeling reform. <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">This bill would require the use of uniform terms for food product date labels, i.e. removing &#8216;sell by&#8217; dates and making &#8216;best by&#8217; or &#8216;use by&#8217; dates clearer for consumers. The goal is to help reduce food waste, which is a large problem not only for addressing hunger but also for methane emissions and climate change.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AB 1534 (Irwin)- <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Methane emissions monitoring requirements. <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">This bill would use remote sensing technology to better identify and then regulate methane emissions from landfills.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Currently, all of these bills are in their respective house\u2019s Appropriations Committees. LOPPCA is hopeful that they will advance to floor votes and proceed through the policy bill process in this legislative session.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"MINNESOTA\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Minnesota<\/h4>\n<h4>Lutheran Advocacy \u2013 Minnesota (LA-MN) &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lutheranadvocacymn.org\">lutheranadvocacymn.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Tammy Walhof, Director<\/h4>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Affordable Housing:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> The final negotiated <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Housing Omnibus bill passed<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> with <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">$1.07 billion<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\/FY24-35 biennium. Included were programs addressing homelessness, rental assistance, rental-home preservation, manufactured-home coop purchase, first-time &amp; workforce homeownership, lead-safe homes, and more. The Senate accepted the House\u2019s seven-county metro area sales tax for ongoing housing funding (causing the loss of bipartisan Senate support), in exchange for lowering spending levels. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Lutheran Advocacy-MN focused on big-picture funding\/investments, as the <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Homes for All 2023 <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Agenda<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> was long and complicated. We are pleased so many Homes for All details were addressed, and that our big-picture advocacy helped secure bipartisan support for the original Senate bill!\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We\u2019re also glad many (though not all) rental reforms we\u2019ve supported over several years passed separately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"><br \/>\nSacred Tiny Home Communities:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Sacred Tiny Home bipartisan language remains in the final Labor Omnibus Bill. We anticipate passage soon by a close margin since other aspects of the Omnibus are controversial.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We are delighted that some of our Minnesota ELCA synods passed resolutions in support of these Sacred Settlements<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> and committed to encouraging congregational engagement beyond solely legislative support\/action.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Negotiations Continue:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Other areas for which we\u2019ve had action alerts continue to be in play in various negotiations. Among those are\u2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Homeless Shelter <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Homeless Youth Funding<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Health &amp; Human Services <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">bill negotiations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Inclusion <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">of<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Next Generation Climate Act updates<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to reflect current science and emphasize the need for lowering harmful emissions across the spectrum in <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Energy &amp; Climate negotiations<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Funding<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority (MnCIFA)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to smooth the clean energy transition from<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> both<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Energy &amp; Climate<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jobs\/Economic Development negotiations<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"OHIO\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Ohio<\/h4>\n<h4>Hunger Network Ohio (HNO) &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/hungernetwork.org\">hungernetwork.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Deacon Nick Bates, Director<\/h4>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">On May 11th, 2023, Hunger Network in Ohio in partnership with the Ohio Council of Churches and Dominican Sisters of Peace, held a Budget Advocacy Luncheon &#8211; Praying for Our Daily Bread. There were over 100 attendees present<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> representing<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> over 28 organizations<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">. Additionally,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> 20 legislators and their staff were present<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> at the event<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">. Speakers included Representative Jay Edwards (Ohio House Finance Chair), Representative Bride Rose Sweeney (Ranking Member of the Ohio Finance Committee), and Bishop Gregory V. Palmer of the West Ohio Conference, UMC. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">We\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> grateful to have had <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">the opportunity to co-host this <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">impactful event<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TrackChangeTextInsertion TrackedChange SCXW181220007 BCX4\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\">,<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> and<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> to have<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181220007 BCX4\"> made an impact to ensure that one day, everyone in Ohio will receive their daily bread.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW181220007 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-7019\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-300x200.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"279\" height=\"186\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-1024x684.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-768x513.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-250x167.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-524x350.png 524w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM.png 1198w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 279px) 100vw, 279px\" \/><\/a>\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-7021\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-300x201.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"279\" height=\"187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-300x201.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-1024x684.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-768x513.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-250x167.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM-524x350.png 524w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.34-PM.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 279px) 100vw, 279px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM.png\">\u00a0 <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-7020\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-300x200.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"281\" height=\"187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-250x167.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM-525x350.png 525w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.24-PM.png 1196w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 281px) 100vw, 281px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"PENNSYLVANIA\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Pennsylvania<\/h4>\n<h4>Lutheran Advocacy Ministry \u2013 Pennsylvania (LAMPa) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lutheranadvocacypa.org\/\">lutheranadvocacypa.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Tracey DePasquale, Director<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-7022 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM-300x198.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"267\" height=\"176\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM-300x198.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM-250x165.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM-529x350.png 529w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.26-PM.png 714w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px\" \/><\/a>Lutherans turned out in record numbers for the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) annual day of advocacy on April 27. More than 150 attendees participated in workshops on hunger, climate, clean water, housing insecurity,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> LGBTQ+ policy and resources for the new study guide on civic life and faith, before traveling to the Capitol to advocate on hunger and housing priorities in the upcoming budget.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cThe day was full of energy,\u201d said LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale. \u201cIt was wonderful to be gathered again after four years!&#8221;<a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-7023 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM-300x199.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"230\" height=\"153\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM-300x199.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM-250x166.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM-526x350.png 526w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.40-PM.png 734w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 230px) 100vw, 230px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Rev. Dr.\u00a0 Roger Willer, ELCA director of theological ethics in the Office of the Presiding Bishop, offered the keynote on Discipleship in a Democracy. \u201cThe response to the keynote and workshop on progress toward the new social statement gives us hope that these resources will <a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-7024 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM-300x199.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"262\" height=\"174\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM-300x199.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM-250x166.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM-528x350.png 528w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.46-PM.png 540w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 262px) 100vw, 262px\" \/><\/a>spark good conversations and that our congregations will find the resulting statement useful in their witness and in their daily discipleship,\u201d DePasquale said.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Even the day\u2019s worship was based on materials used in the study guide, making it a great sending for our work in the Capitol. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=8WaTwy6PAI4\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Watch a recording here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Advocates from each synod were recognized as a way of lifting up their work and inspiring others<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lutheranadvocacypa.org\/2023-advocacy-honorees\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Read their stories.<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-7025 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM-259x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"145\" height=\"168\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM-259x300.png 259w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM-250x289.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM-302x350.png 302w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.48.54-PM.png 624w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 145px) 100vw, 145px\" \/><\/a>DePasquale has also been busy with legislative visits on environmental justice, participating in SEPA Synod Assembly, a consult with Lutheran Disaster Response, and a conference on science-based targets for faith-based organizations sponsored by World Resources Institute and Georgetown University.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"WASHINGTON\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Washington<\/h4>\n<h4>Faith Action Network (FAN) &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/fanwa.org\">fanwa.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>Elise DeGooyer, Director<\/h4>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">We have good news to share as t<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">he <\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">2023 Washington State Legislative Session <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">adjourned on April 23. We are celebrating some victories and historic milestones for the people of our state:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Our <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">hunger and safety net bills <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">were among the first to pass and be signed by the Governor this session\u2014adding $28M for emergency food and nutrition services, school meals for 90,000 more K-12 students, and basic needs supports for college students. Investments were made to expand affordable housing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">We especially celebrate the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">removal of the death penalty <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">from state law, following decades of work and after it was deemed unconstitutional by the State Supreme Court.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">In a year where we have grieved multiple mass shootings, our state took steps to <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">limit assault weapons, <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">add comprehensive background checks, and hold the gun manufacturers accountable for controls.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The legislature also protected <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">reproductive choice and gender-affirming care <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">in Washington with several bills this session. You can find our full listing of wins and analysis on our website under <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Legislative Agenda.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_7018\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7018\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-7018\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-300x112.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"112\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-300x112.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-1024x382.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-768x287.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-250x93.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM-700x261.png 700w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.36.37-PM.png 1516w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-7018\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Wash. Governor Jay Inslee signing the Death Penalty Bill with elected officials and advocates<\/p><\/div>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">And there is more work to do! <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">The governor called a special session to begin on May 16 to address an impasse over an expiring law about drug possession penalties. Our coalitions\u2019 economic justice bills to fix the state\u2019s regressive tax system\u2014the Wealth Tax, Guaranteed Basic Income, and Future Fund\u2014did not move this session, but important conversations were begun. Renter protection bills to prevent homelessness also did not pass.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a name=\"WISCONSIN\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Wisconsin<\/h4>\n<h4>Lutheran Office for Public Policy \u2013 Wisconsin (LOPPW) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.loppw.org\/\">loppw.org<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4>The Rev. Cindy Crane, Director<\/h4>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Youth Advocacy Retreat<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-7017 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-300x167.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"212\" height=\"118\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-1024x570.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-768x428.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-250x139.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM-629x350.png 629w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.33.14-PM.png 1196w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 212px) 100vw, 212px\" \/><\/a>Thirty youth from all six synods and several adults showed up for a weekend in April to be part of our first Youth Advocacy Retreat.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-7016 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-241x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"165\" height=\"205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-241x300.png 241w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-824x1024.png 824w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-768x955.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-250x311.png 250w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM-281x350.png 281w, https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.32.54-PM.png 838w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 165px) 100vw, 165px\" \/><\/a>Our organizers included<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">Deacon Laura Ramlow Synod Minister &#8211; Communication, Faith Formation, Malawi (Northwest Wisconsin Synod)<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Rev. Jenn Pockat, Associate to the Bishop, Director for Communications and Community (East Central Synod of Wisconsin); Rev. Marie Leafblad, Associate to the Bishop for Leadership Support (South-Central Synod of Wisconsin)<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Rev. Cindy Crane (LOPPW director)<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Ms. Stefanie Ehle, Synod Youth Ministries Coordinator (Northern Great Lakes Synod)<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Ms. Gretchen Haugse, Youth and Sunday School Ministries, St. Matthew\u2019s Ev. Lutheran Church, Milwaukee (Greater Milwaukee Synod).<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Additional Recent Events<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Women of the ELCA:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> The Lutheran Office of Public Policy in Wisconsin<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">(LOPPW) had a presence and spoke briefly at the La Crosse Area Synod Women of the ELCA Convention, which focused on faith and citizenship. Rev. Joanne Richmond of Our Savior\u2019s Lutheran, La Crosse, Wisc., gave an excellent presentation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">East Central Synod of Wisconsin Lay School:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> LOPPW&#8217;s director led a class on the ELCA social statements for the East Central Synod of Wisconsin Lay School of Ministry, coordinated by Rev. Mark Ziemer. LOPPW will lead one more class on Luther and social justice in May.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Budget<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">LOPPW submitted these comments to the Joint Finance Committee:\u00a0 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.loppw.org\/files\/2023\/05\/2023-Joint-Finance-Committee-Requests.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2023 Joint Finance Committee Requests<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices (sppos) in the ELCA Advocacy Network this month. Full list and map of sppos available. &nbsp; U.N. | CALIFORNIA \u00a0| MINNESOTA | OHIO | PENNSYLVANIA | WASHINGTON | WISCONSIN &nbsp; Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC), United [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":290,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1400],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7015","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-post"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>May Updates: U.N. and State Edition - ELCA Advocacy<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"May Updates: U.N. and State Edition - ELCA Advocacy\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices (sppos) in the ELCA Advocacy Network this month. Full list and map of sppos available. &nbsp; U.N. | CALIFORNIA \u00a0| MINNESOTA | OHIO | PENNSYLVANIA | WASHINGTON | WISCONSIN &nbsp; Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC), United [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"ELCA Advocacy\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-05-24T13:13:27+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/blogs.elca.org\/advocacy\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2023\/05\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1198\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"800\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"kaylazopfi\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"kaylazopfi\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"kaylazopfi\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/9e447ea5de7973742b23c2f67ce4cca1\"},\"headline\":\"May Updates: U.N. and State Edition\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-05-24T13:13:27+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1749,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/41\\\/2023\\\/05\\\/Screenshot-2023-05-17-at-12.45.14-PM-300x200.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Post\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/blogs.elca.org\\\/advocacy\\\/may-updates-u-n-and-state-edition\\\/\",\"name\":\"May Updates: U.N. and State Edition - 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