The Role of ASCE in Influencing Public Policy on Controversial Technical Issues

The extent of ASCE's involvement in any issue must be determined by the Circumstances of each particular situation. Four possible types of involvement are suggested. ASCE's most important function is the education of its members. The Society should strive to keep its members informed about all aspects of current, controversial, technical issues. The Society should encourage and assist its members to become more actively involved in public affairs, particularly in their own communities. Providing facts and explanations of technical aspects of projects, policies, or issues, for the news media, civic organizations, and legislators, is possibly the most effective means by which ASCE can influence public policy nationally and locally. ASCE should offer guidance and assistance to members who believe that an existing project or policy, in government or private industry, should be questioned or reevaluated.