Remember a lot of people will contact legislators to provide their input on different legislation, policies, programs and issues so make YOUR contact standout.
When calling a legislator:
• Plan what you are going to say, be brief and to the point
• State your name and indicate if you are a constituent, or calling on behalf of a family member, group or organization
• If you are talking to an aide, find out the name and position of the aide so that you will have a contact person if you need to give or obtain additional information
• State the reason that you are calling and give the name of the bill and number if appropriate
• State whether you support or oppose the legislation, program or issue and what you want the legislator to do
• Be factual and support your position with how the legislation, etc. impacts you or people you are concerned about
• Avoid emotional and/or philosophical statements
• If you don't know the answer to a question let the legislator know that you will find the answer and get back to them.
• Thank the legislator or aide for his or her time
You may follow up the phone call with a note of thanks, restating the reason for your contact, and what you believe was agreed upon.
Tips for Writing Your Legislator
Tips for Visiting Your Legislator
|
