The most effective method
for contacting legislators is still letters, calling, and
faxing. Most
legislators have not yet moved to the internet for effective communication
and emails tend to be ignored (article on Reuters news service March 18,
2001 states:
State your view in the
first paragraph. Be brief, clear and concise - " I
support..." - "I oppose...." - "I wish to amend..."
The most effective time
to write about legislation is while it is still in committee.
Concerns on federal
issues should be addressed to the legislators Washington office.
Form letters just coped
and signed are not as effective as personally created letters.
-
Explain how the issue you
are writing about affects (or will affect) your child or your family. Give
facts and examples. Explain your situation.
Be brief (no more
than one page); and one issue per letter.
-
If your letter concerns a
particular bill in process provide the complete and correct bill number.
Provide your Name,
address, phone number, and email address and indicate your registered voter
his/her district or that you belong to an organization interested in the
legislation.
-
Ask for a written response
(which may be provided by a staff member and not your legislator - Remember
a legislators staff is an extension of the legislator and they often advice him/her
of the issues or are delegated to help the constituents.
-
Thank your legislator for their
time and support - Send a thank you note back if they support your issue or
help.
Calling and
faxing/mailing your are still the preferred method of contacting
legislators. Not all read email as often as other media.