BITPETITIONS FIELD GUIDE 03 / Identify who can act
Send the request to the right decision-maker.
Map your issue to the office, board, organization, or leader with the authority to make the change.
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Trace the decision, not just the topic
A petition about a school schedule might belong with a school board or district office. A concern about a city crossing may belong with a transportation department. A state law question may need a state legislator or agency. The person who cares most about an issue is not always the person who can change it.
Look for the policy, department, meeting agenda, or official process connected to the decision. Use public contact information and verify that the office accepts petitions or public requests.
Use the authority map
This is a starting map, not a guarantee. Responsibilities differ by issue and location, so confirm the recipient’s role before you publish.
Do a quick authority check
- What exact decision needs to change?
- Which body or leader owns that decision?
- What public process should your request follow?
- Can you name the recipient clearly in the petition?
When responsibility is shared, explain that plainly and consider whether your request should be directed to more than one office.