PCEOC - Helpful Hints for Contacting Legislators

:: Helpful Hints for Contacting Legislators ::

Generally, a personal letter (or e-mail) is more effective than a phone call, but a phone call can have a greater impact than a non-personalized form letter (or e-mail. Whereas a staff person from the legislator's office usually handles a phone call, records the important information and relays the message to the legislator a legislator sometimes brings the most moving letters with him or her when it is time to vote on a bill. But pick the most comfortable method for you. Whatever method you choose, here are some helpful hints to remember when contacting your legislators.

Writing your Legislator - Calling your Legislator

Write a personal letter (e-mail). It is far more effective than a form letter. Tell your own story about the issue.
Identify yourself as a constituent (a resident of the legislator's district.)
Try to limit your letter to one page, and do not write more than two Legible hand-written letters are just as good as typed letters. Be sure you include your return address!
Be Polite
Do not be afraid to ask for a meeting with your legislator or someone from his or her office! This can be the most effective form of advocacy.
If possible, send a copy of your letter to PCEOC so we can keep track of the advocacy efforts in the community and how the legislators are responding. Send copies to:

PCEOC
P.O. Box 137
Kim, CO 81049

Most important! Send a "Thank You" note (or make a "Thank You" call) when your legislator responds to your request! Prepare your remarks before you call! Keep in mind that the person you speak with will very likely be unfamiliar with the issue. Keep notes available if this will make you more comfortable.
If you are calling about a bill, identify the bill number in the first paragraph of your letter, and immediately establish whether you would like the legislator to support or oppose the bill.
Don't be surprised if you don't speak to the legislator directly. Staff who answer or respond to the majority of calls have the legislator's "ear" and will make sure that your comments are recorded and relayed to the legislator.
Be positive, and try to be brief. Remember: the staff person you most likely will talk to will work even harder on your behalf if this conversation is one he or she remembers fondly!
Leave your name, address and phone number.
Do not be afraid to ask for a meeting with your legislator or someone from his or her office! This can be the most effective form of advocacy.
Most important! Send a "Thank You" note (or make a "Thank You" call) when your legislator responds to your request!