Consult with and gather input from all stakeholders about the proposed policy. This can help prevent potential citizen, merchant, and industrial opposition. Conduct this consultation throughout the process: at conception of the idea, during the process, and once the regulation is in effect.

Conduct Surveys & Polling – For different stakeholder groups – business or merchant groups, neighborhood associations, shoppers and consumers. Poling can be formal or informal. Use different messaging to appeal to different audiences and decision makers.

Hold Community Workshops – Regulators and community activists should engage community input through workshops and hearings at the state or national level. At the local level, this can be through town hall meetings, community workshops, or listening sessions At the state level, informational hearings in key districts are more appropriate. Use these sessions to educate the community about the reasons for the proposed regulation and to listen to their concerns.

Hold Business Workshops – Reach out to local business groups and ask for their help to get turnout for the meeting. Identify supporters in the business community and find ways to further their engagement. Ask them to attend hearings, visit legislators, and engage other friends and neighbors, or business leaders. At the state or national level, reach out to larger business associations, as well as big chains and brand-owners. Use workshops, hearings, and local meetings to educate the business community about the need for the regulation, what the regulation will do, and how it might help benefit them. Listen to concerns and try to address them.