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Tips On Telephoning Your Elected Representatives
Remember that telephone calls are usually taken by a staff
member, not the member of Congress. Ask to speak with the
aide who handles the issue about which you wish to comment.
After identifying yourself, tell the aide you would like
to leave a brief message, such as: "Please tell Senator/Representative
(Name) that I support/oppose (S.___/H.R.___)."
You will also want to state reasons for your support or
opposition to the bill. Ask for your senators' or representative's
position on the bill. You may also request a written response
to your telephone call.
Tips On Writing Congress
The letter is the most popular choice of communication
with a congressional office. If you decide to write a letter,
this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness
of the letter:
Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first
paragraph of the letter. If your letter pertains to a specific
piece of legislation, identify it accordingly, e.g., House
bill: H. R. ____, Senate bill: S.____.
Be courteous, to the point, and include key information,
using examples to support your position.
Address only one issue in each letter; and, if possible,
keep the letter to one page.
Addressing Correspondence:
To a Senator:
The Honorable (full name)
__(Rm.#)__(name of)Senate Office Building
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator:
To a Representative:
The Honorable (full name)
__(Rm.#)__(name of)House Office Building
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative:
Note: When writing to the Chair of a Committee or the
Speaker of the House, it is proper to address them as:
Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman:
or Dear Mr. Speaker:
Tips On E-mailing Congress
Generally, the same guidelines apply as with writing letters
to Congress. |
