Hints for Visiting your Legislator

One of the most effective ways to voice your opinions is through personal visits to your legislator's office or in their home district. Establishing a relationship with your legislator is extremely useful.

Before meeting, come up with a plan:

Have three or four key points clear in your mind. Writing them out beforehand will help.
Research your legislator's positions on your issues. If you know how s/he stands on the issue, it will be easier to frame your arguments.
If available, bring along information (i.e. fact sheets) that will help you make your points.

Take advantage of the short time you have to spend with a legislator:

Be on time. Legislators have tight schedules. If you cannot avoid being late, call the office to alert them.
Dress appropriately. Treat this meeting as any other that requires a professional appearance.
Have an agenda prepared. In most cases, the legislator has agreed to the meeting to hear your views. Use the time wisely and follow a clear agenda.
Be brief. You can expect 15-20 minutes. Usually, the legislator's schedule does not allow for more time - so be concise.
Send a follow up letter. Briefly restate your messages and thank the legislator for his/her time.
Be sure to get your concerns on the table before engaging on small talk.

ISSUES