LEGISLATIVE INTERN
AGENCY DESCRIPTION
Disability Rights Maryland (“DRM,” formerly Maryland Disability Law Center)a nonprofit legal advocacy organization, is the designated Protection & Advocacy agency for Maryland, mandated under federal law to advance the rights of people with all types of disabilities, of all ages, statewide. DRM is a well-established, healthy, forward thinking organization and recognized leader in disability rights.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Legislative Internship is a part-time, temporary opportunity at DRM. The successful candidatewill gain insight into a broad range of disability-related legal issues and the state legislative process, working under the direction of the Executive Director to advance DRM’s public policy goals. This is a 90-day position during the Maryland General Assembly session (Jan. 11 – April 10, 2017). The legislative intern will work 15-35 hours/week, depending upon availability and assigned responsibilities, for a total of approximately 240 hours over the duration of the internship. This position is eligible for a financial stipend and involves travel to Annapolis to be reimbursed at DRM’s standard rate. The ideal candidate will share DRM’s values and commitment to the fundamental rights of people with disabilities to equal rights and opportunities, full integration, independence, support and self-determination.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The Legislative Intern will be supervised by the Executive Director, and will work with her and other DRM staff to assist in coordinating, trackingand reporting on DRM’s public policy activities.The Intern will be responsible for monitoring legislation and hearing schedules, maintaining DRM’s bill tracking list,alerting DRM staff in advance ofimportant deadlines, coordinating and deliveringtestimony to Committee offices, attending bill hearings, and preparing updates, correspondence, records and reports.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree. Work experience can substitute for up to two (2) years of education.
Relevant experience, e.g. experience in legislative advocacy,working with people with disabilities,advocating for disability rights or related social justice issues,or community organizing.
Working knowledge of the legislative process.
Self-starter able to seek appropriate guidance and maintain accountability while working independently.
Strong interpersonal skills, including disability and other cultural sensitivity / competency; ability to work collaboratively with diverseinternal & external partners.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to organize information on an ongoing basis.
Ability to conduct research and draft clear, concise written analyses.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Computer literacy and software proficiency to carry out job functions.
Ability to travel within the State of Maryland.
Strong commitment to DRM’s mission of advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities.
OTHER HELPFUL QUALIFICATIONS
Experience as a legal orlegislative intern, law student, or in a legislative,legal servicesor other public interest environment.
Paid or volunteer experience working directly with DRM client populations.
Ability to communicate in ASL, Spanish or another non-English language.
Life experience with disability.
Individuals with disabilities, people of color, LGBT individuals and others who contribute to staff diversity are especially encouraged to apply. DRM is an Equal Opportunity employer.
Mail cover letterwithresume, brief writing sample and three (3) references to:
Disability Rights Maryland
ATTN: Legislative Internship
1500 Union Avenue, Suite 2000
Baltimore, MD 21211
Or via email with “Legislative Internship” in the subject line to: .
This position was announced on November 7, 2016, and priority consideration will be given to applications received by November 28, 2016. Position open until filled.