Tips for
contacting your elected officials
Legislative Protocol: A
Primer
- Respect the institution
– the government, the legislature, the governor’s
office, the political/legislative process. It may not be perfect;
but belittling it, rather than working to change it, will not make
it more effective.
- Respect the position if
not the person. Voters elected legislators. They may not all meet
one’s personal standards for being a legislator, nor will
they necessarily hold the "right" view on the vital issues; but
treat each legislator with respect.
- Know
and use legislators’ proper titles – senator,
representative, governor – and address written correspondence
appropriately. When speaking to a legislator, let the situation
dictate the form of address. While one may be on a first name basis
in an informal setting, in public a legislator should be addressed
with his or her formal title.
- When
calling on government officials, dress appropriately. Formal
meetings call for professional (business) attire, as do appearances
before committees.
- Know
the issues, the pros and the cons. Legislators are busy people, and
few have time for long-winded explanations. Be able to explain the
matter at issue concisely and clearly.
- When
dealing with the sponsor of a bill of interest, be clear in
expressing concerns. Know the sponsor’s positions in order to
respond directly to them. Know the points on which compromise will
be acceptable.
- When
testifying, always thank the committee chair and the committee for
the opportunity to present your position, even if they disagree
with your position.
- Attack the issue, never
the person.
Tips for Citizen
Lobbyists
- For
more information on how to call, write, or meet with your local
government representatives; attend a legislative hearing; or write
a letter to the editor, click here.
