Personal Visits

The first step to having a visit with your legislator is setting the appointment. Send a written request to the attention of the scheduler stating that you are a constituent, and the time, date, and topic of your meeting; follow up with a phone call. Remember that the schedules of Members are subject to change; therefore do not be disappointed if your meeting is with a staff member. Do not underestimate the power and influence of a staff member; therefore, conduct a meeting with staff just as you would with the Member. Be brief; your visit should require no more than 15 minutes for you to make your point. Encourage questions and elicit discussion into the Members position. Prepare a one page fact sheet to use during the meeting as a reference and leave this for the legislator and staff. Send a thank you note expressing appreciation for their time and reiterating your position on the issue.



Letter Writing

An effective letter is no longer than one page and should include who you are, your issue of concern, and what you are asking the Member to do. Refer to the bill number and title if applicable. If you know the Member's positions on similar legislation, mention those, as it indicates your awareness in voting records. If you are addressing opposition to legislation, offer an alternative approach.

Do not use form letters or send copies, each elected official should receive an individual, personalized letter. Do not use your vote as a threat or bribe. Do not overstate your case or personal experience; the most effective letter is clear and concise.



Phone Calls

Telephone calls are most effective when made to the Member's district office. Ask to speak with the staff member who works with healthcare legislation. When speaking with the staff member, state your name, that you are a constituent, and the reason for your call. Limit your call to 3-4 minutes and use written notes to keep you on topic. Leave your name and contact information with the person you are speaking.


E-mail

The key to an effective email is length. Legislative offices are flooded with emails, so yours needs to state clearly who you are, your constituency, and your concern. Relate your position to your experience and the member's committee assignments or constituent interests. Ask for a response that states the member's position on the issue and include your mailing address, as most members prefer to use postal mail to respond.



Follow-up

Whatever the form of communication, follow-up is necessary. A thank you note will not only show that you appreciate the demands on the Member but also provides an opportunity to reiterate your position. If the member does what you ask, send a thank you letter specific to the action. If he does not, send a letter of disappointment.