TIPS FOR WRITING TO YOUR LEGISLATORS

1

ADDRESS YOUR LETTER/EMAIL PROPERLY

Letters should be addressed as follows: 

The Honorable (Name)

State Capitol

200 E. Colfax Ave., (Room Number)

Denver, CO 80203

** The salutation of the letter/email should read “Dear Senator/Representative (Last Name).”  Make sure you spell names correctly.

2

IDENTIFY THE LEGISLATION

State the name and number of the bill or piece of legislation you are concerned about.

3

BE BRIEF AND CONCISE

Keep your message brief; one page or less and only cover one topic or bill.  Get to the point quickly and be specific about why you are writing and what action you would like to be taken.

4

INTRODUCE YOURSELF

Introduce yourself in the letter/email and let the legislator know why you are interested or concerned with the legislation and whether or not you are a constituent.

5

USE A SINCERE AND RESPECTFUL TONE

Use your own style and words; legislators want to know what you think.  Do not be argumentative, call names, or make threats. Avoid using labels such as: conservative/liberal or republican/democrat.  Use this opportunity as a chance to educate the legislator about what issues and concerns are facing you and the legislator’s district.

6

INCLUDE YOUR NAME & ADDRESS

TIPS FOR PHONING OR VISTING YOUR LEGISLATOR

1

KEEP TO THE POINT & DISCUSS ONLY ONE ISSUE

2

ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS AHEAD OF TIME & MAKE NOTES TO HELP YOU STAY ON TRACK

3

ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS AHEAD OF TIME & MAKE NOTES TO HELP YOU STAY ON TRACK

4

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

5

BE POLITE

6

BE ACCURATE

7

DON’T INGORE THE LEGISLATOR’S STAFF

8

FOLLOW UP