Letter to an Elected Official

How to Write to an Elected Official

Surprisingly few people ever write to their elected officials. Perhaps 90% of Americans live and die without ever taking pen in hand and expressing a single opinion to the person who represents them in Congress and the Legislature. Yet that representative's vote may decide what price they will pay for the acts of government, either in dollars, in human lives, or the quality of our environment.

Writing your elected officials is easier than you think. In fact, it's one of the simplest and most effective ways to influence public policy on behalf of the environment.

Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• Identify the Bill or Issue - Over 1,000 bills are introduced into the Vermont State Congress each year, so it is important to be specific. If you write about a particular piece of legislation, try to give the bill's number or describe it by a popular title ("Septic Bill", "Renewable Energy Bill", "Act 250").
• The Letter Should be Timely - Inform your elected officials while there is still time for them to take action.
• Focus on your own Delegation - As a constituent, your views are most valued by the Members of Congress and Legislators that you vote for. Focus your energy on your House members and Senators.
• Be Reasonably Brief - Keep your letter concise and to the point. Try to limit it to one issue. It is not necessary that letters be typed - only that they be legible.
• Ask for a Response - If your elected official is vague in his or her response, write again and request clarification. Don't hesitate to ask questions. Your elected official works for you. Don't sound demanding or threatening, however.
• Give your Reasons for Taking a Stand - Your representative may not know all the effects of the bill and what it may mean to an important segment of his or her constituency.
• Show Understanding - Try to show awareness of how the proposed legislation would affect not just the environment, but also your community and other people's health and jobs.
• Be Constructive - If a bill deals with a problem you admit exists, but you believe it takes the wrong approach, offer your elected official an alternative.
• Ask for Specific Action - If your questions or concerns are general (i.e., "I hope you are for renewable energy") you will most likely receive a form letter. Ask for specific action, such as co-sponsoring a bill or supporting an amendment.
• Share Expert Knowledge With your Representative - No one can possibly be an expert in all fields; many constituents are experts in some of them. Members of Congress welcome expert advice and counsel.
• Use Personal or Business Letterhead Whenever Possible - Be sure to include a complete return address on the letter and envelope.
• Say "Well Done" When it is Deserved - Members of Congress are human too, and they appreciate an occasional "well done" from people who believe they have done the right thing. But even if you think your representative went wrong on an issue, a non-threatening letter stating your disagreement would be welcome; it may help on another issue later.