Tips On Telephoning Your Elected Representatives
1. Find your legislator's phone number. Use the online searchable directory at http://www.congress.org/congressorg/directory/congdir.tt or call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202)224-3121 and ask for your legislator's office.
2. Telephone calls are usually taken by a staff member, not the member of Congress. Ask to speak with the staff member who handles the issue about which you wish to comment. Don't be disappointed about speaking with a staffer they are very knowledgeable about their topics and often very influential as well.
3. Identify yourself by name and the organization that you represent or the voting district from which you are calling.
4. Explain to the staffer you would like to leave a brief message, such as: " Please tell Senator/Representative (Name) I am calling to support/oppose House Bill: HB_____, Senate Bill: SB_____. "
5. State the reasons for your support or opposition to the bill. Be polite and concise. Creating 1 or 2 talking points will focus the content of your message. Too much information may confuse your message.
6. Ask your legislator his/her position on this issue. Don't assume your legislator has prior knowledge of your issue. Be calm, respectful, and be prepared to educate, using local examples to accentuate your point.
7. Request a written response to your phone call if you did not speak to your legislative member.
8. Respond if the legislator requires further information, provide it as soon as possible.
