Do's:

• Specifically ask for support of your position.
• Address you legislator properly.
• Write legibly (handwritten letters are fine if they are easily readable).
• Be brief, to the point and discuss only one issue in each letter.
• Try to identify a bill by number and/or title.
• Know the facts. Do not try to influence a legislator before you have a complete understanding of the issue.
• If possible, give an example of how the legislation will affect you personally.
• If you are writing as an individual, use you own words and your own stationery. If you are writing as an organization, use the organization's stationery.
• Include your address and sign your name legibly.
• If you have any family, business or political connection regarding the issue you are writing about, explain it.
• Ask the legislator to state his or her position in their reply.
• Ask your legislator if they prefer to be contacted by fax, e-mail, phone or letter.

Write your legislator when they do something you approve of.  Too often legislators hear only from constituents that are against something.  Everyone enjoys a good word rather than a complaint.

Don'ts:

• Do not send a postcard.
• Do not sign and send a form letter.
• Do not begin on a righteous note ("As a citizen and taxpayer..." or "As a concerned citizen...").  Legislators know you pay taxes and are a citizen.
• Do not apologize for writing and taking their time.  If your letter is short and clearly expresses your opinion, they are happy to give it some consideration.
• Do not be rude or threatening.
• Do not send a copy of your letter to other legislators; write each one individually.
  

How to address your letters:

When writing to a State Legislator or Governor:

   The Honorable John Doe or The Honorable Jane Doe
    State Senator or State Representative or Governor
    State House or Straton Building, Room ###
    Springfield, IL  62706

When writing to a U. S. Representative or U.S. Senator:

    The Honorable John Doe or The Honorable Jane Doe
    U. S. House of Representatives or U. S. Senate
    Address
    Illinois or Washington, D.C.


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