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Helpful Tips for Writing to Your Legislator

You want to make your time spent writing a letter as useful as possible. Follow these tips to communicate to your legislator most effectively and get the most benefit from your letter:

  • Address letters properly:
    The Honorable John Doe
    Wisconsin Assembly
    (Room number)
    State Capitol
    P.O. Box 8952
    Madison 53708-8952    		 The Honorable Jane Doe
    Wisconsin State Senate
    (Room number)
    State Capitol
    P.O. Box 7882
    Madison 53707-7882
  • The salutation of the letter should read "Dear Senator (last name)" or "Dear Representative (last name)."
  • State the name of the legislation in the first paragraph. Include the bill number if you can.
  • Type your letter or write very legibly.
  • Be brief and to the point. State your opinion very clearly.
  • Make sure you spelled their name right!
  • Personalize your letters. Use your own stationary. Avoid writing on a postcard or sending a form letter. Be genuine!
  • Clearly identify yourself. Be sure to include your address and sign your name legibly. If you have any family or business connection to the bill, explain it.
  • Ask for specific action. Let your legislator know what you want him or her to do. "I want you to vote for/against this bill." It doesn't hurt to mention that you will wtch their peformance.
  • Use a personal touch. Mention how the bill will benefit or hurt you and your family on a personal level.
  • If you have had a personal contact with the legidslator, mention that.
  • Keep the letter short and concise. One page is best. Written correspondence that is short and to-the-point is more likely to grab and keep the reader's attention.
  • Don't photocopy a "generic" letter provided by an organization and send it in. Legislators are unlikely to be persuaded by obvious copies.
  • Be sure to include your name and return address on both the letter and the envelope! Envelopes are sometimes discarded before the letter is answered.

When telephoning or visiting your legislator:

  • Plan your call or visit carefully. Keep to the point and discuss only one issue.
  • Organize your thoughts ahead of time and make notes to help you stay on track.
  • When planning to visit your legislator, make an appointment. Don't just drop by your legislator's office and expect him or her to drop everything to see you. Call or write for an appointment as soon as you know when you are going to be at the Capitol.
  • Prepare a one-page fact sheet concerning your issue to give to your legislator. This will help him or her better retain what you present.