OHA- HCAP

Advocacy Efforts

Tips for Effectively Communicating with Your Legislator:

E-mail and fax letters are the preferred method of correspondence to legislative offices. Telephone calls are also acceptable, although you should not become discouraged if you cannot speak directly with your legislator. Legislative staff members are often equally (or more) informed as their legislator.
If you are writing on behalf of yourself, use personal stationery or e-mail signature lines. Be sure to include your home address, e-mail address, and telephone number.
If you are writing on behalf of your institution or organization, use company stationery or your professional e-mail signature line.
Become familiarized with the details of the issue.
Identify the subject -- when writing about a legislative proposal, identify the measure by name and include the bill number.
State your concerns and your position. Explain how the legislation will affect your, your community, and your institution or organization.
Keep it short -- focus your correspondence on one issue.
Ask for a reply -- indicate that you would appreciate an appropriate response.
Be friendly, courteous, and positive.
Follow up -- if your legislator's response, co-sponsorship, or vote pleases you, express your thanks promptly. If not, express your appreciation to your legislator for considering your views.