Letter Tips

**Tips on Writing to Officeholders**
Responses to letters are by subject, a legislator may have a different staff person for each subject, therefore its important to limit a letter to one subject. Personal letters have the greatest impact, a form letter generally gets answered with a form letter. Personal responses are more likely when the constituent writes in his or her own words. Hand write it if possible, but make sure that it is legible. Identify yourself. Mention your professional status and stress that you are the legislator’s constituent. Use your address that is in the district, whether it is your home or office. Be personal and sincere. Your own personal experience may be the most effective argument. If possible, show the legislator how the bill will affect you or your business. Share your expertise of your industry with them. Be polite, professional, and to the point. Do not make threats, wild, unsubstantiated assertions, faulty facts or profanity. Keep the letter to one page if possible. Ask for their support! If you don’t get an answer, write again and ask why. Those letters usually receive attention, especially if you include a phone number. Don’t burn your bridges, compromise is a way of life in the legislature. If you legislator disagrees with you on one issue, he or she may support you on another. Thank them for their effort. E- mail is an acceptable way to contact your legislator, you can find their addresses elsewhere in this section. Many legislators read at least part of their mail personally in order to gauge public sentiment back in the district. Generally, the mail isn’t as heavy mid-week, so that may be the best time to send it. Always make sure your name and address are on your letter, as well as your envelope.