Elected Officials 2004

TIPS ON CONTACTING ELECTED OFFICIALS

An elected official can be contacted:
  • in person (best to call first to setup a meeting);
  • by letter;
  • by fax;
  • by phone call; or
  • by e-mail.

Tips:

  1. Introduce yourself and tell where you are from and if you are associated with a group or organization. If it is a letter, fax, or e-mail include your last name and address.
  2. Know what you are talking about but you do not have to be an expert to have an opinion.
  3. If it is a specific bill read it first and any background information you may have.
  4. Be constructive, tell why you feel the way you do, keep it brief, and use your own words. Often a written letter is best.
  5. Prioritize; contact your elected official on issues that concern you the most rather than on every issue.
  6. The legislator may disagree with you and you need to listen to their side of the argument without interruption. Make notes of their reasons.
  7. Don’t demand a commitment, the legislator needs time to look at all sides of the issue.
  8. Time your communication. It is better to provide information when a bill is in committee and changes can be made.
  9. Thank a legislator when you feel they have done a good job. This is important because elected officials may not hear ‘job well done’ very often.
  10. Your view is important; just a few letters concerning an issue can make a big difference. Use your own words.
LETTER WRITING AND E-MAILING

Address elected officials properly - Know your legislator’s full name and correct spelling.
U.S. Senators

The Honorable (full name)
United States Senator
Address

Dear Senator (last name):

U.S. Representative

The Honorable (full name)
United State Representative
Address

Dear Congressman/woman (last name):
STATE SENATOR

The Honorable (full name)
State Senator
State Capitol
P.O. Box 30036
Lansing, MI 48909-7536

Dear Senator (last name):

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

The Honorable (full name)
State Representative
State Capitol
P.O. Box 30014
Lansing, MI 48909-7514

Dear Representative (last name):

 

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Name
Address

Date

The Honorable
address

Dear Representative or Senator;

I would like to share my concern/support (state the issue very clearly).

This cut/decision will (state your view simply on the subject).

I feel strongly that (what would you like to see done about the issue/concern).

Thanks you for your time and consideration of this issue.

Sincerely,

(sign your name)