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Contacting Your State Legislator
Be Prepared
Make sure you know the number of the Bill(s) prior to calling or visiting. Research the issue and pending legislation and prepare an outline of talking points.
Introduce Yourself
Introduce yourself as a constituent; legislators and aides are more attentive to voters within their districts. If you're a member of a group or organization that's taken a position on the Bill, let your legislator know that you're representing others who support your position.
Real World Impact
Legislators want to understand how pending legislation will impact their constituency. Explain how the Bill will affect real lives — like yours!
Hook Them
Create an image by sharing a fact or personal story.
Specific Actions
Tell legislators exactly what you want them to do — support or not support a bill, amend the wording to make it better or write a letter to a colleague.
Listen and Respond
Listen closely to any questions the legislator may have and respond if you can. If you don't know the answer, offer to find the information and call them back with appropriate answer.
Stay on Message
Keep it as brief as possible while still giving all relevant information. Stay on message.
Follow Through
Tell your legislator or staff person that you will be following the Bill's progress. Find out how your legislator voted if one's taken.
Watch Legislators Votes
Follow how your legislators vote on issues. Make sure they know you're interested and paying attention. Call or write short notes or e-mails to inform them how you feel about a vote they cast. Constituents have every right to hold their elected officials accountable!
