How do I write a letter to my senator?

Find out who your federal and state representatives are. To get the names of your U.S. senators and representative, call the congressional switchboard at 202-224-3121. Give the operator your zip code, and he or she will give you the names of your legislators to use with the following addresses. Senators The Honorable (name) U.S. Senate Washington, DC 20510

Representatives The Honorable (name) U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 To get the names and addresses of state representatives, consult the Blue Pages in your phone book, or call your local courthouse or municipal building.

Identify yourself as a concerned citizen, NOT as a member of an organization; legislators want to get feedback from voters, not lobbyists. Keep letters brief—no more than one page. If you’re writing about a specific bill, mention the bill’s name and number, if you know it, and whether you support or oppose it in the first paragraph. Include reasons and supporting data in the next paragraph or two. Conclude by asking for a response.

Focus on a specific topic. Don’t ask the legislator just to “support animal rights bills”; very few legislators vote in favor of all animal protection bills because different issues are at stake with each one.

Be polite and concise.