COMMUNICATING WITH PUBLIC OFFICIALS
They depend on our letters to help them. Below are a few hints about writing effectively to our legislators. Our lawmakers are interested in the opinions of their constituents. Thoughtful, sincere letters on issues that directly affect the writer get the most attention.
To have the most impact on legislators:
· Office visit
· Phone call
· Personal letter
· Email
· Send postcard
PLEASE DO:
· Address the person properly
· Be brief and to the point. Identify a bill by the number and title, if possible.
· Address single issue per contact.
· Type or write legibly
· Be courteous and reasonable
· Sign your name and include your address
· Write to approve or show appreciation, not just to complain or oppose
· Write each legislator individually
PLEASE DON'T:
· Sign and send form letter
· Begin "As a citizen and a taxpayer..."
· Be rude
· Be vague
REMEMBER
The straightforward letter, carrying an earnest appeal, commands the interest and respect of legislators. It is especially helpful if you can state how the bill might affect you or your community.
They depend on our letters to help them. Below are a few hints about writing effectively to our legislators. Our lawmakers are interested in the opinions of their constituents. Thoughtful, sincere letters on issues that directly affect the writer get the most attention.
To have the most impact on legislators:
· Office visit
· Phone call
· Personal letter
· Send postcard
PLEASE DO:
· Address the person properly
· Be brief and to the point. Identify a bill by the number and title, if possible.
· Address single issue per contact.
· Type or write legibly
· Be courteous and reasonable
· Sign your name and include your address
· Write to approve or show appreciation, not just to complain or oppose
· Write each legislator individually
PLEASE DON'T:
· Sign and send form letter
· Begin "As a citizen and a taxpayer..."
· Be rude
· Be vague
REMEMBER
The straightforward letter, carrying an earnest appeal, commands the interest and respect of legislators. It is especially helpful if you can state how the bill might affect you or your community.
