After identifying a policy goal, the next step is determining the most effective way to achieve it. There are many avenues in the legislative process, including authorizations, appropriations, and amendments. It is necessary to understand how to effectively navigate these avenues to avoid wasting precious time and resources. For successful advocacy, it is imperative to target and educate the right Members of Congress or congressional committees and consistently ensure that your efforts are moving the process forward.

The Ryan White CARE Act, signed into law in 1990, was authorized for five years. In 1995 and 2000, The Sheridan Group, working with the CAEAR Coalition, successfully led the effort to extend the law for an additional five years. In 2000, the reauthorization of the CARE Act was the only major health care legislation passed by the House Commerce Committee.

The Sheridan Group provides expertise on international issues, particularly in the areas of global health and development. A legislative strategy prepared and executed for DATA Foundation targets the passage of major authorizing legislation that more than doubles funding for US global health programs, while improving trade conditions and relieving debt for the most deserving countries. The Sheridan Group also advocated for funding of DATA's priorities through regular and supplemental appropriations bills, including increased contributions to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, an initiative for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, and expanded USAID and CDC global health activities.

Other clients for whom The Sheridan Group has provided guidance on legislative strategy include: The Illinois Facilities Fund, Lyme Disease Foundation, the MDL Plaintiff's Committee, People for the American Way and Pangaea.

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