Talking to legislators

[Humptulips]

A legislator said the other day that we are not being heard because no one is contacting their legislators. We need to be heard and maybe  some remain silent because they are intimidated by the thought of talking to legislators. Anyway I wrote these  up for The Trappers Association a couple years ago. I thought maybe someone might benefit from them.

Tips for Successful Lobbying

1. Don't be intimidated by the thought of approaching elected officials
State legislators especially are receptive to constituent comments.
2. Make an appointment
Call or e-mail your legislator and ask for a few minutes to talk about your issue. Don’t know your legislator. Look here http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/default.aspx?city=&street+&zip=
Click on your legislators name for contact info.
3. Appearance††
Dress nice, cut your hair, shave, etc. make a nice appearance not like you just came out of the woods. You don't need to be wearing a suit but you should be neat and well groomed.
4. Be concise
Your message should be short and direct. Usually you can expect from 15 to 30 minutes to make your appeal. Notes can be helpfull. It is fine to express your personal opinion.
5. Personalize your appeal
Tell how you are concerned about an issue and how it affects you and your community.
6. Cultivate legislative staff
Establish a positive relationship with staff persons. They are usually more accessible and can have tremendous influence over an issue.
7. Be honest
If you don't know the answer to something, admit it and try to get the information later.
8. Leave literature
If you have literature to support your position leave it with your legislator.
9. Identify your bill or issue clearly
Whenever you get a chance to lobby elected officials, don't just refer to your effort by a bill number but if there is a  bill effecting your issue know the number and communicate it. And always make it clear whether you are asking for their support or opposition to the matter.
10. Keep things friendly
Maintain a positive relationship with all legislators, they may be in this office or a higher one for decades. Threats and hostile or sarcastic remarks are not productive. Do not create any enemies.
11. Avoid party politics
We have friends on both sides of the aisle.
12. Say thank you

[dreamunelk]

 

Excellent advise.  I will add much of this advise should be considered whenever talking to staff of government agencies.

[huntrights]

Thank you for this post!  Most people tend to complain to their friends and family, but never do anyhting to change the situation.  These are political battles, and we can be the drivers if enough of us write and call our representatives.  They do listen, and every single one of your communications makes a difference.  If you don't write or call, then all of that complaining does absolutely nothing to change things.  The anti-gun, anti-hunting, and environmental groups figured this out long ago.

[blackdog]

Schedule appointments with your legislators for when you are in Olympia!