PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Everyday Rhode Islanders now have an up-to-date guide for talking with local, state and federal officials.
The Secretary of State’s office has just published the 2007-2008 Rhode Island Government Owner's Manual Rhode Island Government Owner’s Manual, which includes contact information for the state’s Congressional delegation, every city and town and officials of the major agencies, departments and committees for all three branches of state government.
“We are focused on making government more open and accessible. Our State House and our town halls belong to the people. This resource recognizes the vital role voters play in our democracy and provides a bridge to the services government offers,” said Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis.
Some examples of the phone numbers and email addresses in the new Owner’s Manual are those for the state Department of Health, town councils and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse. The guide also includes the name of every registered State House lobbyist as well as the companies and organizations they represent.
“This guide will make it easier for you to voice your opinion to elected officials, seek help and learn more about the process of making policy,” Mollis explained.
Just 6,000 hard copies of the 390-page Owner’s Manual were printed.
“The web is an efficient platform. The information is available 24 hours a day, easy to update and inexpensive to provide. I will make increasing on-line access to government a priority,” said Mollis.
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