Legislators want to be informed and responsive to their constituent's needs. A well-written letter can provide valuable information and feedback that helps the legislator choose an informed position. Note that because of heightened security measures ground mail is not a good way to get a message to your member of Congress. Do use the suggestions below to compose an email or fax for your legislator.
1. Use the correct form of address:
President and Vice President
The President of the United States
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
Dear President __________:
The Vice President of the United States
Executive Office Building
Washington, DC 20501
Dear Vice President __________:
U.S. Senators
The Honorable ____________
_____ _____ Senate Office Bldg.
(rm #) (name)
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator ___________:
U.S. Representatives
The Honorable ___________
_____ _____ House Office Bldg.
(rm #) (name)
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative ___________:
Governors and Lieutenant Governors
The Honorable _____________
Governor of the State of __________
State Capital
Dear Governor ___________:
The Honorable _____________
Lieutenant Governor of the State of__________
State Capital
Dear Lieutenant Governor _________:
2. Avoid form letters; personal letters have more impact.
3. Identify yourself and your organization.
4. Be concise. Brief letters are more effective and more likely to be read than long ones. Offer to elaborate if requested. Address only one issue in each letter.
5. Be specific. Write about current issues or legislation. If you are asking for support of a specific bill include its number and name, title or subject (House bill: H.R. _____, Senate bill: S. _____). Communicate how the legislation impacts you, your colleagues, and your students, if possible.
6. Don't ask for the impossible. Politics is the art of the possible.
7. Use personal or institutional letterhead which includes your return address and contact information.
8. Increase your letter's impact by sending copies to your senators, city councilors, and members of Congress.
9. Ask for a reply. You're entitled to know your legislator's position and reasoning.
10. Follow up with a phone call within a week of mailing your letter.
11. Timing is essential. Know how the legislative process works. Send your letter when the bill first reaches committee to have the greatest impact. Follow up with a phone call or another letter before the bill is voted on.