| Communicating With State Legislatures |
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Michigan Legislative Protocol -
Tips for Writing Your State Legislators
The letter is a direct way to communicate with a state legislative office. When writing a letter, this list of suggestions will improve its effectiveness:
- Individually written letters, rather than mass generated form letters, make a greater impression on your legislator. Type your name, address, and phone number at the top.
- Most state legislatures are only in session part of the year. The Michigan State Legislature is in session
January 14, 2009
through
January 15, 2010.
When the legislature is out of session, it may be more effective to send your letter to your legislator's district office, if the legislator has one.
- Addressing correspondence:
To the State Senate
The Honorable (Full Name)
State Capitol, (Room Number)
Michigan Senate
Lansing, MI 48909
To the State House of Representatives
The Honorable (Full Name)
State Capitol, (Room Number)
Michigan House of Representatives
Lansing, MI 48909
- Be specific. Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If your letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, be sure to identify its full name and number, e.g.
House Bill: HB_____, Senate Bill: SB_____.Try to send your letter while the issue is still alive.
- State your position. Explain why you support or oppose this particular issue. Keep in mind that local examples concerning the impact of this legislation are very powerful. Be courteous and to the point, keeping your letter focused on one issue.
- Ask for a response. Indicate to your legislator that you would appreciate a reply containing his/her position on the issue. "Sincerely yours" is a proper way to conclude your letter.
- Follow up. If you agree with your legislator's vote, take the time to let him/her know that. Similarly, if you disagree with his or her vote, inform your legislator.
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