Private business organizations and the legislative process

The paper concludes that there is no standard form of organization, but rather a variety of representative organizations in different parts of the country and in different industries. Some SME organizations appear to be more effective before state and local governments, whereas others focus more on national issues. Many SME organizations offer members a range of services, of which lobbying and representation are only a small part. Competition among organizations seeking larger membership bases appears to lead to better and more creative services, including more effective lobbying. At the national level the ability of disparate small business organizations to work together by forming coalitions produces effective lobbying for SME"s. (Author abstract)