How to Contact Your Representative
By
Letter
q
Be brief. Address
only one issue per letter, clearly and concisely.
q
Write your own letter.
Never use a form letter.
q
Be positive and constructive. Try to write something complimentary in
the first paragraph. Thank them for
past support, if appropriate.
q
State the bill number and its title. Give your reasons for your support or
opposition in an informed and courteous manner.
q
Be sure to indicate that you are a constituent—a resident of District No.__.
q
If the Legislator votes the way you requested, be sure to write a note of thanks. (This applies to all methods of
communications)
By
Phone
q
Always give your name and address and state that you are a
constituent from District No.___.
q
Refer to bill number and identify content of the bill.
q
Always be positive and courteous to the secretary with whom
you speak.
q
All phone messages are carefully noted relayed to the
legislator.
By Visit
q
Make an appointment, noting that you are a constituent. Be on time.
q
Try to know as much as possible about his/her position on
several issues so that you can comment on something positive, if possible.
q
Be well informed on the issue you wish to discuss. Be positive, brief and courteous.
q
Two or three is an effective number for a visit. Inform the legislator if you are
representing a group or association.
By Email
q
Be sure to indicate that you are a constituent, a resident of District No.__.
q
Be positive and constructive. Try to write something complimentary in
the first paragraph. Thank them for
past support, if appropriate.
q
State the bill number and its title. Give your reasons for your support or
opposition in an informed and courteous manner.
q
If the Legislator votes the way you requested, be sure to email of letter of thanks.
q
Always give your real name and address.
Go to www.house.gov/writerep
for an easy form to fill out.
