How to E-mail your Lawmakers E-mail and the Internet are increasingly popular ways to communicate with legislators and government agencies. Electronic communications offer a quick and inexpensive way for Farm Bureau to communicate with members and members to speak to lawmakers. All the same rules apply to e-mail that apply to conventional mail. Review the How to Write your Lawmakers section before you begin composing your e-mail correspondence. Here are some additional things that you should remember when using the Internet and e-mail to communicate.
Let Farm Bureau help – Arkansas Farm Bureau has the Legislative Action Center (LAC) on its Web site. The LAC allows you easily search for your lawmakers by entering your home address. You can then write them directly via e-mail from our site. The LAC uses a system that verifies for lawmakers that your e-mail is coming from a legitimate source. Throughout the year the Governmental Affairs department will use the LAC to send out Action Alerts on pending legislation. When you visit the Web site take a minute to sign up to receive these Action Alerts. Members can then use the LAC to write their lawmakers using facts and information provided by Farm Bureau.
Be formal – E-mail is traditionally a more informal way of communication but writing your lawmakers still requires formality. Be sure to address legislators and public officials properly. Proper grammar is still important in e-mails.
Identify yourself – Especially in e-mails, be sure to include your first and last name, your address, phone number and return e-mail address.
Use your subject line – Proper use of your subject line is important in letting lawmakers know that your e-mail is a legitimate communication from a constituent and not spam. It is a good idea to reference the issue and your position in the subject line. For example: I support Senate Bill 1 or I support ethanol incentives
Know your subject – Be informed and discuss your position intelligently.
Be specific and clear – If you are writing about a specific piece of legislation mention it by name. Legislators address thousands of bills a year so if at all possible give the bill number in your e-mail. Also be careful to state your position clearly i.e., I support or I oppose.
Use personal examples – While it is important to use a formal format in your email, it is equally important to express your personal reasons for your position. A form letter will state your opinion but a personalized letter will have more impact. If the bill will cost your farm money, say so. If a program will help your child receive a better education, say so. Legislators love personal stories.
Stay Informed – Once you are involved keep up to date on the status of your issue. Use the Internet and other news mediums to stay current. The LAC can also help you stay informed. We will track national bills using the Current Legislation feature. This feature will allow you to view the full text of legislation, sponsors, latest action on the bill and Farm Bureau’s position.
Say Thank You – When lawmaker supports your position, e-mail is an easy way to express your appreciation. 5-28-10