The National Municipal Policy (NMP) is a compilation of federal policy positions introduced, approved and adopted by the full membership of the National League of Cities. These positions focus on federal actions, programs and legislation that directly impact municipalities and guide NLC’s federal advocacy efforts.
Proposed changes to the National Municipal Policy are voted on and approved by NLC members during the Annual Business Meeting at City Summit, Saturday, November 21 in Nashville, TN.
Frequently Asked Questions about the National Municipal Policy
How are changes proposed?
Throughout the year, NLC’s Federal Advocacy Committees review existing policies and develop recommendations for updates. These committees are composed of local elected officials who provide subject-matter expertise across key policy areas and help ensure the policy reflects the needs and priorities of municipalities nationwide.
In addition to committee-driven recommendations, all NLC members have opportunities to contribute to the policy development process through an open call for proposed changes through June of each year. Submissions are then forwarded to the Federal Advocacy Committees for review and consideration. This ensures that a broad range of perspectives from across our membership are considered and/or reflected in our National Municipal Policy.
Policy Development Process
The following boxes represent a sequential timeline of the entire policy process life cycle, beginning in the Spring/Summer and culminating at our City Summit conference in November.
Propose Policy Amendments & Resolutions
Spring/Summer
Federal Advocacy Committee Recommends
Summer/Fall to City Summit
Resolution Committee Votes
Resolution Committee Meeting at City Summit
NLC Members Votes
Annual Business Meeting at City Summit
How will changes be approved?
Proposed changes to standing policy and resolutions will be presented during the Annual Business Meeting at City Summit 2026.
During this meeting, NLC members, appointed as voting delegates, review and vote on all proposed updates, serving as the final step in the policy adoption process. Once approved, these changes are incorporated into the National Municipal Policy and guide NLC’s federal advocacy for the coming year.
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