Visit your legislator
-Make an appointment.
-Be prepared!
-Be on time!
-Begin with a warm introduction.
-Briefly and concisely share your experiences, first-hand knowledge of the need for legislation about your reason for your visit.
-Leave written materials if possible.
-Offer to get more information, if needed.
-Leave on a positive note, keeping the door open for future contact.
Call your legislator
-Give your name and address.
-Speak directly to the senator or delegate, if possible.
-Be brief and concise.
-Focus on the issue.
-Indicate your position and why.
-Use a bill number, if known.
-Be sure your message is understood.
Write your legislator
-Use correct form of address.
-Elected officials are addressed: The Honorable (full name)
-Focus on ONE issue.
-Briefly identify your interest in the issue and describe your experiences.
-Use a bill number, if known.
-Be positive and constructive.
-Ask questions that require a response.
-Enclose informational materials, if any.
-Follow up with a thank you letter.
Essentials to lobbying your legislator
-Find out committee and subcommittee assignments of your senator and delegate.
-Visits are better than letters, but when writing send personal letters; form letters do not get the legislator’s attention.
-Share your experiences and reasons for concern.
-Remember, your experiences are special. Be positive, friendly, and personal
-Be persistent. It takes time and effort to achieve change.Before the General Assembly Session
-Visit your senator or delegate at their home office.
-Identify the legislative priorities of NASW-VA.
-Motivate your friends and family to make contact with their senator and delegate.
During the General Assembly Session
-Identify legislation in which you are interested. Legislation that is supported by NASW-VA will be posted on the website. Please check the website regularly for updates.
-Use the Internet. The internet provides you with a wealth of information such as bill tracking and all kinds of updates as if you were in Richmond at the capital yourself.
-Follow the legislation through action of subcommittee and committee, making sure to contact your senator or delegate at each step of the journey.
-Telephone contact is often necessary when legislation is moving fast.
-Attend subcommittee and committee meetings or check the state website for updates on legislation.
-When legislation reaches the floor, call your senator or delegate.
After the General Assembly Session
-Write letters of appreciation to those who were helpful to you and supported your issues as well as the issues of NASW-VA.
Important websites:
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