Writing an Effective Letter

The letter is the most popular choice of communication and may be the most effective way of contacting your legislator, whether in Lansing or Washington. It can be mailed, or if the time frame for action is short, your message can be delivered by fax or by sending an e-mail. If you decide to write a letter, this list of suggestions will help improve its effectiveness.

• Identify yourself. Be sure to include your last name and address on the letter itself (printed or typed). A letter cannot be answered if there is no return address or the signature is not legible.

• Know what you are writing about. If the letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it by bill name and number in the first and last paragraph, as well as indicating your position.

• Use your own words. Avoid form letters and petitions. One thoughtful, factual, and well-reasoned letter carries more weight than 100 form letters or printed postcards.

• Be reasonably brief. Many issues are complex, but a single page, presenting your opinions, facts, arguments, or proposals as clearly as possible, is preferred and welcomed by most legislators.

• Be constructive and give reasons for your position. Explain how the issue would affect you, your family, business or profession—or the effect on your community or our state. If a bill deals with a problem you admit exists, but you believe the bill is the wrong approach, explain what you believe to be the right approach.

• Write a letter of appreciation when you feel a legislator has done a good job. Legislators are human too and seldom receive "thank you" letters of encouragement.

Remember, on any one issue, even a few letters to one legislator can have an important impact. Sometimes just one letter, with a new perspective, or with clear-cut, persuasive arguments can be the decisive factor in a legislator’s action.