Tips for Contacting Congress
Here are vital points to remember when contacting your senators and representatives:
- Do not use government work time or resources, such as letterhead, franked envelopes or computers to contact Congress. Not only is this illegal, but it is highly counterproductive. Be certain to specify that you are writing as a private citizen, not as a representative of the U.S. government.
- Explain your position clearly and concisely. If you are referring to specific legislation, give the bill number.
- Be brief and to the point. If possible, limit your correspondence to one page. Postcards work too.
- Ask for a reply and your legislator's position.
- Give your name and address.
Calling:
Capitol Switch Board: 202-224-3121, ask for your member by name and state. If you know the number Senate prefixes are 202-224- and House prefixes are 202-225-. Ask for the legislator or the staff person in charge of the area. If you speak to the staff person, be sure to get his/her name.Writing:
Address and Salutation:
The Honorable _________
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator ___________:
Or:
The Honorable _________
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative_______:
- Explain your position, and if referring to specific legislation, be sure to give the bill number.
- Be sure to give your name and address, and ask for a reply and your legislator's position on the issue.
- Try to be brief (one page if writing), state the subject and your interest up front.
