Write Your Legislator

~A Letter to Your Legislator: What Should It Look Like~

A personal letter to your legislator is an effective way to communicate your thoughts and views. A letter can potentially be a valuable tool in changing a legislator's mind. Below are some helpful hints on how to write a letter.

Writing the Letter

Accurately address legislators. Refer to appropriate titles.

~Legislative Links~

For State Legislators:

The Honorable (full name)
State Capitol
Topeka, KS 66612

Dear Senator (last name): or
Dear Representative (last name):

Keep it short. Write a one page letter.
Identify who you are. Write your name, address and phone number at the bottom of the letter.
Refer to bills by number. Reference the name and number of the bill in the content of your letter.
Make your point. Write about one subject. Include a paragraph about how the issue has a direct impact on you. Give reasons why you want your legislator's support. Remember, if you choose to hand write a letter, make sure it is legible
Restate your appeal. Reiterate your request for your legislator's support in a final sentence.
Close the letter. End with a complimentary closure such as "Sincerely Yours" and write out your full name with your full signature.
Return address. Write your name and address on the return envelope.
Timing is everything. Write your letter when a particular issue is being discussed and before a vote.
Send a thank you note. Show your appreciation by sending a follow up note if your legislator supported your issue.

Corresponding by E-Mail

Use formal language. Write as carefully and thoughtfully as you would write a written letter. Avoid using symbols.
Identify who you are. Write your full name and address in the content of the E-Mail.

~Sample Letter to Legislator~

January 1, 2007

The Honorable John Brown
Topeka State Senate
123 State Capitol
Topeka, Kansas 66612

Dear Senator Brown,

My name is Sally Smith. I am a constituent living in your district and I am a mother of three children.

I am writing to express my strong support of "consumer friendly health care services," S.B. 123. This bill is sponsored by Bob Clark and would create a provider policy directing consumers on how to receive reduced rates for health care services.

(Add your personal experiences here, including why this legislation is important to you and how it affects you, your family/business/community)

I urge you to support S.B. 123, a bill that would create policies on reduced rates for health care services in Kansas. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Sally Smith

534 S. Kansas Ave, Suite 1220 | Topeka, Kansas 66603 | Phone: 785.232.9997 | Fax: 785.232.9998 | corrie@kshealthconsumer.org

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