How to Get Involved

Face-to-face contact is the most effective means of communicating with legislators. Start by making an appointment through the legislator's staff. Let them know what you want to discuss. Always arrive a few minutes early. Be brief, state your case and leave after expressing your appreciation for his or her time. Plan to cover your topic in five minutes, if possible, 10 minutes at the most. If presented with questions you cannot answer, admit it and say you will provide the anwers later -- then do so! When you leave, again, state exactly what you want your legislator to do and thank him or her for his/her time.

Who is Your Legislator?

Putting Pen to Paper - When communicating by letter, use personalized stationery and include the bill number (if appropriate), title and subject matter. Be concise -- only one page is recommended -- and use your own words. When possible, as a great personal touch, mention something unique to the legislator and your district, such as a recent event he or she participated in.

Don't use form letters. They are not as effective as a personal letter. Explain why you are writing in a sentence (ie "Please support House bill ___."). Ask the legislator to reply to your letter by confirming his or her support and stating his or her position on the issue.

Be sure to spell your legislator's name correctly and double check the address. Also, be sure to include your contact information in the letter.

Keep Us Informed - Report back to the FHSU Office of Governmental Relations staff. With whom did you speak or visit? What did you discuss? What was his/her position? Your report and those of other LSN volunteers are indispensable to our future strategy.