• Provides an opportunity to fully explain new or difficult issues. 
• Can be an extremely effective method of influencing legislation.

Write at least two weeks before votes are to be taken to provide greatest impact. 

• Keep your letter short. A one-page letter is the best. 
• Personalize your letter, state who you are and what business you represent in the first paragraph. 
• Use corporate or personal stationary. 
• Make sure you provide a return address and phone number in the letter. 
• Focus on one issue and clearly state your position. 
• Explain how you think the legislation or issue will affect your business and be as specific as possible. Site examples when appropriate. 
• If you are addressing a specific piece of legislation, identify the bill number and / or sponsor. 
• Request a response in your letter. 
• Write a letter of appreciation praising the public official if they supported your position and thanking them for their time and consideration even if they opposed your point of view.

Try To:

• Be short, specific and factual. 
• Write clearly. 
• Make the public official aware of how the particular issue will affect their district. 
• Use pertinent facts to substantiate your position. 
• Be polite and sincere.

Do Not:

• Overstate or exaggerate your position. 
• State the obvious fact that you are a ‘citizen’ and a ‘taxpayer’. 
• Base your comments on rumors or hearsay. 
• Use broad generalities. 
• Leave out details. 
• Use threats or personal attacks. 
• Use insincere flattery or flowery terms. 
• Write only letters of criticism.