POP THE CAP 1: Lessons in Statewide Reform

A single-issue campaign yeilds massive cultural change

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA | If someone were to ask you how an idea becomes law, the first thought that comes to mind might be SchoolHouse Rock’s classic I’m Just a Bill. The arduous process of legislation making its way into the books can feel impersonal and distant. But the story of the wistful paper scroll on Capitol Hill is not an all-encompassing one: many of the laws that impact our streets and cities are passed not at the federal level, but by state and local legislators. While local legislation is not free from the ugliness of Washington D.C., the story of everyday actors who see a problem and passionately rally for its resolution is more common. One such story is that of Sean Lilly Wilson.

All we want is six words taken out of the general statutes: ‘and not more than six percent.’