PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 3, 2009) – Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis is offering everyday Rhode Islanders a new tool for talking with local, state and federal officials.
Mollis has just issued the 2009 “Rhode Island Government Owner’s Manual,” which includes contact information for the state’s Congressional delegation, municipal leaders and key officials in all three branches of state government.
“I am committed to making government more open and accessible. Our State House and our town halls belong to the people. This directory recognizes the central role they play in our democracy and works as a bridge to the help government offers,” said Mollis.
In addition to posting the directory online, Mollis printed 6,400 hardcopies of the 304-page directory for distribution. Printed every two years to reflect the results of November elections, the book has historically been popular with the public. Every copy of the 2007 edition was handed out within months of its release.
The new Owner’s Manual includes contact information for every member of the General Assembly as well as city and town councils and school committees. The directory even lists key staff for state agencies and municipal departments.
The guide also continues a practice Mollis introduced two years ago – publishing the name of every registered State House lobbyist as well as the companies and organizations they represent.
“This directory makes it easier for the public to connect with elected officials, seek help and find out more about the practice of making policy,” Mollis explained.
Secretary of State Mollis is committed to making it easier to vote, helping businesses grow and making government more open and accessible. For more information on the programs and services the Secretary of State offers Rhode Islanders, visit www.sec.state.ri.us
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