Addressing Members of
Congress



To a Senator:

The Honorable (full name)

(Room #) (Name) Senate Office Building

United States Senate

Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator _____:

To a Representative:

The
Honorable (full name)

(Room #) (Name) House Office Building

United States House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515



Dear Representative _____:

The above addresses should be
used in email messages, as well as those sent by fax. NOTE: Due to the anthrax
scare, the best way to communicate with federal officials is through email or
fax.

Keep it Simple

Your letter should address a single topic or issue. Typed, one-page letters are
best. The following three-paragraph letter structured like this is recommended:

1.       
Say why you are writing and who you are. List your
"credentials." (If you want a response, you must include your name
and address, even when using email.)

2.       
Provide more detail. Be factual not emotional. Provide specific
rather than general information about how the topic affects you and others.
Please cite the bill number HR3619.

3.       
Close by requesting the action you want taken: a vote for or
against a bill, or change in general policy.

The best letters are courteous, to the
point, and include specific supporting examples.



To Conclude

Here are some key things you should always and never do in writing to your
elected representatives.

1.   
Be courteous and respectful without "gushing."

2.   
Clearly and simply state the purpose of your letter. Cite the
bill number (HR 3619).

3.   
Say who you are. Anonymous letters go nowhere. Even in email,
include your correct name, address, phone number and email address. If you
don't include at least your name and address, you will not get a response.

4.   
State any professional credentials or personal experience you
may have, especially those pertaining to the subject of your letter.

5.   
Keep your letter short -- one page is best.

6.   
Use specific examples or evidence to support your position.

7.   
State what it is you want done or recommend a course of action.

8.   
Thank the member for taking the time to read your letter.

Never

1.   
Use vulgarity, profanity, or threats. The first two are just
plain rude and the third one can get you a visit from the Secret Service.
Simply stated, don't let your passion get in the way of making your point,

2.   
Fail to include your name and address, even in email letters.

3.   
Demand a response.

Although
WGMA could provide a form letter, personalized letters are best and receive the
most attention. Form letters are seen as an annoyance and are quickly dismissed.