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Communicating With State Legislators
Wisconsin Legislative Protocol - Tips for Writing Your State Legislators
Ken Carpenter |
The
letter is a direct way to communicate with a state legislative
office. When writing a letter, this list of suggestions will improve
its effectiveness:
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Individually written letters,
rather than mass generated form letters, make a greater impression on
your legislator. Type your name, address, and phone number at the top.
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Most state legislatures are only
in session part of the year. The Wisconsin State Legislature is in
session January 15, 2008 through the end. When the legislature is out
of session, it may be more effective to send your letter to your
legislator's district office.
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Addressing correspondence:
To a
State Senate:
The
Honorable (Full Name)State
House, (Room Number)Wisconsin
SenateMadison,
WI 53701To
a State Assembly:
The
Honorable (Full Name)State
House, (Room Number)Wisconsin
AssemblyMadison,
WI 53701
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Be specific. Your purpose for
writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If your
letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, be sure to identify
its full name and number, e.g. Assembly Bill: A_____, Senate Bill:
S_____. Try to send your letter while the issue is still alive.
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State your position. Explain why
you support or oppose this particular issue. Keep in mind that local
examples concerning the impact of this legislation are very powerful.
Be courteous and to the point, keeping your letter focused on one
issue.
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Ask for a response. Indicate to
your legislator that you would appreciate a reply containing his/her
position on the issue. "Sincerely yours" is a proper way to conclude
your letter.
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Follow up. If you agree with your
legislator's vote, take the time to let him/her know that. Similarly,
if you disagree with his or her vote, inform your legislator.
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