Legislative Day

What is Legislative Day?

• Legislative Day is an immersive educational experience held during the Virginia General Assembly Session in Richmond.
• Students participating in the Community Electric Cooperative Youth Scholarship Program will:
  • Visit the Virginia State Capitol
  • Meet with legislators representing their local communities
  • Learn how laws and public policy affect electric cooperatives
  • Observe the legislative process in real time
  • Explore leadership and advocacy opportunities
  • Experience the fast-paced environment of state government

Participating in Legislative Day

• WHAT TO EXPECT:
  • The day will begin with meetings focused on legislators who directly represent participating students and the communities served by Community Electric Cooperative.
  • Students will:

• • • Meet legislators and staff members
    • Learn about current legislative priorities
    • Discuss the role of electric cooperatives in Virginia
    • Practice professional communication and networking skills
  • To help students feel prepared and confident, background information and materials will be provided before meetings begin.

• EXPLORING THE CAPITOL

  • Students will have the opportunity to tour portions of the historic Virginia State Capitol while learning about:

    • Virginia government
    • Legislative procedures
    • State leadership
    • The history of the General Assembly

• FLOOR INTRODUCTION IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
  • One of the highlights of the day is the student recognition during session.
  • Students will be formally introduced from the gallery floor by a legislator, who will recognize:
    • Community Electric Cooperative
    • The Youth Scholarship Program
    • The importance of youth leadership and cooperative education
  • This introduction is broadcast live as part of the official legislative session.

• LUNCH AND LEADERSHIP DISCUSSION
  • Following the floor introduction, students will return to the office for lunch and downtime together.
  • This portion of the day allows students to:
    • Ask questions
    • Discuss what they have experienced
    • Watch portions of the legislative session live
    • Learn more about advocacy and cooperative leadership
    • Interact with cooperative staff and leaders in a relaxed setting
  • Lunch will be provided

• AFTERNOON MEETINGS AND COMMITTEE OBSERVATION
  • In the afternoon, students may:
    • Attend additional legislative meetings
    • Observe committee meetings
    • Experience the behind-the-scenes pace of the General Assembly
    • Continue networking with cooperative and government leaders
  • Because the legislative schedule changes daily during session, afternoon activities may vary depending on votes, committee schedules, and legislative timing.
  • This flexibility gives students an authentic experience of how government truly operates in real time.

Why Legislative Day Matters

• Legislative Day is designed to help students:
  • Understand the connection between government and local communities
  • Learn how electric cooperatives advocate for their members
  • Develop professionalism and communication skills
  • Gain confidence speaking with leaders and policymakers
  • Explore future careers in public service, communications, energy, and leadership
• Most importantly, students gain a deeper understanding of how their voice and involvement can make a meaningful impact in their community and beyond.

What Students Should Bring

• Students are encouraged to:
  • Dress professionally or in business casual attire
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking throughout the Capitol
  • Bring a positive attitude and willingness to engage
  • Come prepared to ask questions and participate in conversations
• Additional logistical details and schedules will be provided prior to the event.

Application