Virginia Citizens
Defense League, Inc., P.O. Box 513, Newington, VA 22122 • 804-639-0600
Communicating With Your Legislators
Letters are an effective way to communicate with your legislators. Faxes, phone calls, and emails are also options, particularly with time-sensitive issues.
Tips for Effective Written Communication
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State the purpose of your letter (or fax or email) clearly and concisely in the first paragraph. If your letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, refer to it by it's bill number.
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Be courteous, to the point, and clear. State why you support or oppose the legislation and how it will affect you and/or the legislator's constituents.
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Angery or threatening letters usually are ignored and thus serve no useful purpose.
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Address only one issue in each letter.
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If possible, keep the letter to one page in length.
Tips on Emailing Your Legislators
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The same guidelines apply for email as with writing letters.
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If you are emailing your legislator, include your mailing address in the email message. This will let them know that you are one of their constituents and they may respond with a letter.
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When you email several legislators, be sure to use a seperate message for each legislator, even if it is the same, identical message.
Tips on Telephoning Your Legislators
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Telephone calls are frequently taken by a receptionist. However, don't let that stop you from asking to speak with your legislator. He or she may be available and take your call. If your legislator isn't available, ask to speak with the aide. If the aide isn't available, leave a message.
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Identify yourself.
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Identify the bill you support or oppose.
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Concisely state your reasons for your support or opposition to the bill.
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Ask for your Senator's or Delegate's position on the bill.
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If you did not speak to your legislator, but instead left a message with the receptionist or aide, you may also request a written response to your telephone call.
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Be polite yet firm, NOT angry or threatening.
Addressing Correspondance
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Governor:
The Honorable Mark Warner
P.O. Box 1475
Richmond, VA 23219
Salutation: Dear Governor Warner:
FAX: 804-371-6351
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Senator (during the legislative session):
The Honorable ________
General Assembly Building
Richmond, VA 23219
Salutation: Dear Senator _______:
FAX: 804-698-7610
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Delegate (during the legislative session):
The Honorable ________
P.O. Box 406
Richmond, VA 23218
Salutation: Dear Mr., Ms., Mrs. _______:
FAX: 804-786-6310
Virginia Citizens
Defense League, Inc., P.O. Box 513, Newington, VA 22122 • 804-639-0600