TIPS on speaking to your legislator
make an appointment.
Email your legislator to make an appointment, either in your community or at the State House. Let them know why you’d like to meet and who you are representing. Think about the outcome you'd like as a result of meeting
Be prompt & patient.
Legislators are busy during the session, so they may run late or have interruptions during your meeting. Flexibility and patience are key.
Be prepared.
Know what issue you are going to discuss, and if there's a specific bill, have the bill title and summary information handy. Bring information and materials to share with your legislator. Don’t overwhelm your legislator with materials though!
Be brief.
Time is precious during the legislative session. Expect to meet with your legislator for 5 to 10 minutes in Augusta. If meeting in your community, 30 to 45 minutes is appropriate.
be strategic.
Make sure to show the connection between what you’re requesting and the interests of the legislator’s district. If possible, let your legislator know how you or your group can be of assistance. Be sure to ask for a specific commitment (for example, to support or reject a particular bill).
Be responsive.
Be prepared to answer questions or provide additional information should the legislator express interest. If you do not know the answer to a question, tell them you will get that information to them as soon as possible.
be respectful & appreciative.
If a legislator doesn’t agree with you, be respectful of their position. Assertively argue your position and express disappointment without being disrespectful.
follow up.
Write or email a short note to your legislator to thank them for meeting with you. If you offered additional information, this is a good place to include it. Check in on any unfinished business (for example, if your legislator said they needed more time to take a position on a certain issue).