Providing an inside view of policy initiation and policy making, this book, written by a former Congressional staff member, offers readers a first-hand account of policy formation from preliminary research to coalition-building, writing the bill, and working with committees to move the bill to the floor. A straightforward, engaging presentation follows the Safe Havens Support Act from the initial idea that inspired the bill, through its crafting and eventual passage as part of larger social services bills--and examines the ground-level challenges of a new member of congress developing a legislative agenda. For individuals who want to see how Republicans and Democrats can work together, and how a policy idea becomes a legislative reality. (Google)