Legislative Research Assistant

Organization: Family Protection Ministries (FPM)

Commitment

• Location: In-Office (Sacramento, CA) or Remote 
• Term: January 2027 – May 2027 (can be extended) 
• Schedule: Flexible, averaging 6–10 hours per week.
• Supervisors: Executive Director / Office Manager
• Compensation: Stipend equivalent to $15 per hour.
• College Credit: Students interested in earning college credit are encouraged to coordinate with their academic institution.

About Our Organization

Since 1986, Family Protection Ministries (FPM) has worked to defend parents’ freedom to train, educate, and care for their children privately, without governmental interference. We monitor, analyze, and respond to California legislation affecting the legality of private home education. 

Our mission is rooted in the conviction that parents have a fundamental responsibility and right to direct their children’s education. Through legislative research, public policy education, and advocacy, FPM works to protect these freedoms for California families.

Internship Overview

We are seeking motivated college students to serve as Legislative Research Assistant Interns. This is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in legislative research, public policy, and nonprofit advocacy while contributing to work that protects private home education in California.

We anticipate hiring two interns for this position. Interns will work alongside FPM staff to monitor legislative developments, research proposed bills, and prepare materials that support effective advocacy.

FPM’s internship program goes beyond practical training. Our approach combines three essential elements: Training, Education, and Implementation. Interns develop practical skills, learn to think critically and evaluate legislation through a Biblical worldview, and apply their learning through meaningful assignments that support FPM’s mission.

What You’ll Do

• Complete assigned reading from several books and respond to accompanying study guide questions.
• Monitor California legislation that may affect private home education and parental rights.
• Research proposed bills, amendments, committee hearings, and legislative developments.
• Prepare concise bill summaries, research briefs, and background memos.
• Identify relevant legislative history, public records, and supporting documentation.
• Maintain organized records of bills, sources, and research findings.
• Assist with preparing information for internal discussions and advocacy efforts.
• Work with staff to identify emerging issues and legislative priorities.

Responsibilities may be tailored to the intern’s strengths, interests, and learning objectives. 

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience with California’s legislative process.
• Training in legislative research, policy analysis, and source verification.
• Critical-thinking skills and discernment in evaluating public policy through a Biblical worldview.
• Experience translating complex legislation into clear, useful summaries.
• Practical experience supporting a longstanding nonprofit advocacy mission.
• Opportunities to strengthen your résumé, develop professional references, and establish valuable connections in public policy and advocacy.

Successful interns may also receive a letter of recommendation. 

Qualifications

We welcome applications from college students who are eager to learn, think critically, and contribute to FPM’s mission.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

• An interest in public policy, the legislative process, parental rights, private home education, or nonprofit advocacy.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to organize information accurately.
• Dependability, initiative, and the ability to work independently.
• A willingness to learn, receive feedback, and meet deadlines.
• An interest in evaluating legislation through a Biblical worldview.

Students studying political science, public policy, history, journalism, legal studies, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Previous legislative research experience is helpful but not required.

Apply Now

Submit your résumé and a brief statement of interest to this application form. Please describe your interest in FPM’s mission and any relevant research or writing experience. Academic writing samples are welcome. 

Selected applicants will generally participate in an initial application review followed by one or two interviews, conducted virtually or in person.