Writing A Member of Congress

The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office.  If you decide to write a letter, here is a list of suggestions what will improve the effectiveness of the letter.

Addressing Correspondence:

·                    To a Senator

The Honorable (First Name, Last Name)

United States Senate

Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator (Last Name):

·                    To a Representative

The Honorable (First Name, Last Name)

United States House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative (Last Name):

Note:  when writing to the Chair of a Committee or the Speaker of the House, it is proper to address them as:

Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman:

Dear Mr. Speaker:

·                    Your purpose in writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter.  If your letter pertains to a

             specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly (e.g., House bill: H.R. _____, Senate bill S. ______)

·                    Be courteous, to the point, and include key information, using examples to support your position.

·                    Address only one issue in each letter and, if possible, keep the length to one page

Emailing a Member of Congress

When addressing an e-mail to a member of Congress, the body of your message should use the following format:

                        Your Name

                        Address

                        City, ST ZIP

                        Dear (title) (last name),

                        Start your message here.