Legislators love to hear about issues that matter to their constituents. They deal with hundreds of proposed pieces of legislation a year, and can't be expected to know that a proposed law is important to you unless you tell them.

When Contacting Legislators by Phone:

• Identify yourself by name and home address.
• Identify the bill you wish to talk about, by name and number by possible.
• Briefly state your position and how you wish your legislator to vote.
• Ask for your legislator's stance on the bill or issue. Ask for a commitment to vote for your position, but don't argue if the legislator has an opposing view or is not yet decided.
• If your legislator needs additional information, call a supporting organization to get the information and get it to your legislator as soon as possible.
• Recognize that legislators are often away from the office, on the floor or in committee, so you may get an aide or be asked to leave a voice mail message. That's great. Use the same basic rules. If you'd rather leave a message than talk to a live body, call in the evening.

When Contacting Legislators by Letter/FAX/Email:

• Make clear your position and exactly what you want your legislator to do.
• Personalize your communication by telling how the legislation will affect you and others you know in your own words. Write briefly, on one subject at a time, and refer to your bills by name and number.
• Sign your letter with your name and home address so that your legislator knows if you are a constituent. Also include your phone number.
• When a legislator votes as you asked, send a thank you note.