The daughters of teen mothers are 3 times more likely to become teen mothers themselves.
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| Advancing women's health by creating an environment in which the public and elected officials confidently support women's health policy. |
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|  | Contacting Your Legislators |
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| Phone Your Legislator | | You can call four places:
The Legislative Hotline.
800.362.9472 toll free in WI
608.266.9960 in Madison
Their capitol office.
Their district office.
Their home.
Helpful Hints
1) Speak with their staff.
Ask to speak to the staff member who handles health policy issues. Legislators are tied up in many meetings. Build a relationship with the staff and legislator so they know you when you call. You can request a call from the legislator.
2) Be prepared.
Jot down some notes before calling, so you get your point across, being as specific as you can.
3) Don't bully.
Threats and yelling are sure ways to be ignored or dismissed.
4) Ask for a response.
Give your name, address and phone number so the legislator knows who you are.
5) Be timely.
The earlier in the process you call, the more impact you'll have. If WAWH asks you to write, call or participate, don't hesitate.
6) Call back.
Ask what's happening? Follow the progress of your issue as it winds through the political process.
7) Say thank you.
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| | | 1) Your correspondance should identify you.
Type or write legibly and make sure your return address (business or home) is on the letter or e-mail.
2) Identify yourself.
"I'm a representative from x organization."
"I am a concerned citizen who feels ..."
3) Explain your relationship to the issue.
"I am a member of WAWH..."
"As a member of x community, I see individuals who..."
"As a specialist in the field of..."
4) Under two pages and only one issue per letter.
Legislators are busy, so boil your argument down to the most basic facts and arguments.
5) Be specific.
Give the bill number if you know it or identify the subject area as best you can (or call WAWH staff to help you).
6) Clearly state your position and reasoning.
Perhaps you support an entire bill or maybe you are against a single amendment. Back up your claim with facts and personal experience.
7) Be reasonable.
Legislators are human, too. Don't expect the impossible. Remember, they are just one of many in the capitol.
8) Make specific requests.
"I'd appreciate a written response."
"Please let me know your views."
"...get back to me before my meeting on..."
9) Avoid form-letter language.
Form letters are not as effective as letters "from the heart." Avoid stereotyped and vague sentences and phrases that don't ring true.
10) Say thank you. |
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| Visiting Your Legislator | | Making an appointment:
Call or write the legislator's home or capitol office to request a meeting. Be persistent!
State the subject to be discussed and the time needed.
Identify those who will attend.
Provide as much advance notice as possible.
Be flexible with your schedule.
Be prepared for the meeting:
Know your facts, stick to them, and keep it simple.
Know what your goal is and be specific about what you want your legislator to do, such as introduce legislation, co-sponsor a bill, vote for or against a bill, etc.
Know the bill's number, title, and status.
Know the relevant facts and research to support your views.
Prepare a one-page fact sheet, outlining your views on the issue and the impact it will have, to leave with your legislator.
Tips for your meeting:
Be on time.
Be confident and firm.
Be brief.
Listen carefully, even if you disagree. Do not lecture or be argumentative.
State your views, whether you support or oppose the legislation, in your own words.
If you do not know the answer to a question, offer to find out and follow up with the answer.
Treat your legislator with respect and listen carefully. Try to draw out specific answers.
Take notes and record what is agreed upon.
After the meeting:
Follow up with a thank you letter to the legislator and the staff person who arranged your visit.
Your letter should include a summary of your position along with any new information that supports your views. |
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