John Lowder became a partner of our firm in January of 2013. John came to the firm with 18 years of legislative experience. John was a top advisor to the House Democratic Leadership team, serving 14 years as Director of the Research and Appropriations staff. During those 14 years, John and his staff analyzed and advised legislators on a variety of legislation affecting all aspects of state government. Additionally, in his capacity as Appropriations Director, John negotiated and supervised the drafting of every state budget from FY 2000 – FY 2013. His intimate knowledge of the legislative process and the construction of the state budget allows him to provide our clients with a distinct advantage in achieving their legislative and budgetary goals.
Work Experience
AREAS OF EXPERIENCE : Research and Appropriations Analysis
1995– January 2013
1993 and 1995
House Democratic Research and Appropriations Staff – Office of the Speaker Illinois House of Representatives
Staff Analyst
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Hired in 1995 to serve as House Committee Staff Analyst for the Agriculture and Conservation Committee, Constitutional Officers Committee, and State Government Oversight Committee Staff Analyst
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Coordinated staff appropriations activities for all state agencies.
Director
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Appointed director in 1999 to oversee research and appropriations staff analysts.
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Assigned research duties and coordinated appropriations strategies. Explained legislation to leadership and General Assembly members. Negotiated budget on behalf of the House Democratic caucus.
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Assisted Speaker of the House and leaders in top-level negotiations on budget and substantive matters.
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Trained new employees.
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Analyzed House and Senate bills for items directly affecting the association.
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Coordinated a legislative reception
Illinois State Bar Association
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Tracked the Illinois Bar Association’s legislative agenda.
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Monitored legislative committees and floor action.
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Conferred with section councils to develop legal opinions and association positions.
Education
B.A., Political Science and Legal Studies, Sangamon State University, Springfield, Illinois
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