Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when you are trying to influence a legislator or legislation:
DO
- Be specific and know your facts
- Be honest, direct, positive, and brief
- Attend hearings on specific bills and register and/or testify in support for or against the bills
- Show your legislator how legislation you support will help the district
- Check the progress of the bills that interest you as often as possible
- Treat your legislator as a friend and an intelligent citizen
- Invite legislators to a local program in your area
- Write a thank-you letter after a visit or supportive action taken by your legislator
- Write letters to the editor or opinion articles for your local newspaper
DON’T
- Be argumentative or abrasive
- Press for an answer from your legislator on the first in-person visit
- Interrupt them when they are obviously busy or in a hurry