The Contractor will provide information and advocacy to support authorizations and appropriations for projects and programs of interest to DWR. The DWR Contract Manager, working with senior management, will prioritize and direct the Contractor’s work to include the following tasks: 1. Federal Funding Program: a. Contractor will assist DWR with development of a federal funding program for a broad portfolio of water resources, water quality, environmental, and multi-benefit projects/programs related to DWR’s SWP over the next ten (10) years. b. As part of this program, Contractor will develop a federal engagement strategy. 2. Authorizations and Appropriations Requests: a. Contractor will assist DWR with development and advocacy for authorizations and appropriations for inclusion in legislation. b. Contractor will prepare, file and advocate for appropriation requests to Congressional committees. 3. Coalition Development: a. Contractor will work in coordination with local water agencies and water industry associations to support authorization and appropriations proposals. b. Contractor will form and support coalitions of interested agencies or associations to advocate for authorizations and appropriations. 4. Meeting Facilitation: a. Contractor will coordinate meetings in Washington, D.C. or virtually with DWR, federal agencies, congressional offices, and coalition members or other stakeholders. The purpose of these meetings include: i. Coalition building, briefing congressional or Executive Branch agencies, or seeking cost-sharing. ii. Preparing meeting agendas, objectives, logistical information, fact sheets, talking points and related support material prior to federal engagements. b. Contractor will coordinate information and assist DWR in briefings and negotiations with and Committee staff, Congressional district staff, nongovernmental organizations, and relevant consultants. c. Contractor will assist DWR in briefings and negotiations with federal agencies. d. Contractor will ensure compliance with federal and State reporting requirements concerning federal lobbying activities. 5. Legislative Tracking and Analysis: a. Contractor will monitor and analyze existing and proposed legislation that impacts DWR and the State. b. Contractor will provide periodic updates regarding proposed modifications to federal legislation, regulations, and policies related to DWR programs and projects. If directed, the Contractor will prepare related strategy or advocacy papers and correspondence, presentation materials, or written and oral testimony for Congressional committees, members of Congress, Congressional staff, and federal officials. 6. Documentation: a. Contractor will provide documentation of DWR’s federal advocacy efforts when directed.
