Tips for Advocates
You may always contact the legislators who represent the district in which you live or work (although in the latter case you should explain your work connection to the legislator's district). (Find your district)
Generally, it is inappropriate to contact legislators who do not represent your personal or work-related district -- with these important exceptions:
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"Thank you" calls and letters are always proper for any legislator's good works.
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The chair of a committee that is considering a particular bill ought to be open to calls and letters from any district. Specify when you are writing a legislator in his/her capacity as chair.
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If you have personal or professional expertise on a particular bill, any legislator ought to be open to your input (when writing legislators outside your district you should state your reason for contacting them).
What To Say & How To Say It!
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Address your letter "Dear Senator [or Representative] (last name):
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Tell them who you are - identify yourself as a constituent.
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Tell them why you are contacting them. Know your bill numbers or make very specific reference to your issue.
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Be concise, one page or two at the most, attaching articles or other more detailed material if you wish; one topic per letter.
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Clearly state what you want the legislator to do (or not do) and explain why in your own words.
- Personal stories make a stronger impact. Take time to compose your
own letter or message.
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Be polite, remember positive attracts and negative repels.
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Phone messages need to be short and clear. No one is going to "quiz" you on your views. Staff will just relay your message.
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Thank them for their time and consideration.
Five Ways to Communicate with your Legislator
1. Personal visits
2. Personal letters
3. Phone calls made directly to their offices
4. Phone calls made to the legislative hotline
5. Postcards or letters that are part of a letter campaign
Personal Visits
The best time to visit your legislators and to cultivate a relationship is before session even starts. If you can visit your legislator during session, call their aide to set up an appointment. Call early for appointments during lobby days, --they tend to fill up quickly!
Getting others involved
In addition to your own calls and letters, you can multiply your advocacy clout by getting others to speak up -- friends, relatives, colleagues, club members, and community/professional acquaintances. Pass along your Common Ground bulletins and urge others to subscribe.
Write a letter to the editor of your local paper.
Note: If you need help identifying your legislators and their committee assignments or the various committee chairs, please call 425-349-8424.
Legislative Hotline
1-800-562-6000
Find your Legislative District
Contact your Representatives:
Subscribe to Common Voice Bulletins
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