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.