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Best Practices for Contacting Elected Officials

Each year, legislators make decisions that affect your life. It's up to you as a citizen to voice your opinions and influence your country's future. Disabled American Veterans of Hampton, Virginia, offers best practices for contacting elected officials.

Telephoning Congress
To find your elected official's phone number, call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121.

Ask for an Aide
Once you reach your Congressman's office, most calls are taken by a staff member. Ask to speak to the aide who handles veterans' issues.

Have Your Message Ready Identify yourself and the whom you represent. Give a prepared message, such as: "Please tell Senator or Representative (Name) that I support (or oppose) (S.XXX or H.R. XXX)." Briefly tell why you do or don't support the bill.

	Request a Follow-Up Ask for your Congressman's position on the bill. You may also ask for a written response to your phone call. Writing to Congress The U.S. Mail is a proven way for you to stay in touch with elected officials at any level, local or national. Writing an Effective Letter State your purpose in the first paragraph. Identify your concern, such as a specific piece of legislation. Manners Count Be courteous, and include key information, using examples to support your position.

Stay on Point
Focus on only one issue in your letter. If possible, keep the letter to one page. End by asking your Congressman to respond to your letter. Whether you call or write, being polite and concise is the best way to get through to your elected official.

Virginia Veterans Real Property Tax Exemption (Real property tax; exemption for disabled veterans. (HB1645)

Click on this link for more details:http://www.richmondsunlight.com/bill/2011/hb1645/

Contact us for more tips on speaking to elected officials.