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How to Write to Congress

Form letters are usually not effective when writing to a congressperson. For this reason, it is very important that you write an original letter that explains to your elected official why you do or do not want this issue addressed. Follow these guidelines and then read the sample letter below:

Use your own words on your own stationery.
Keep your letters professional and to the point.
Always type and spell check your correspondence.
Always include a return address.
Address letters to your own legislators.
Keep your letter short and clear, no more than one page.
Identify bills by title and number if appropriate.
State reasons for your position.
Tell how the issue affects you or your business.
Use the proper form of address:
The Honorable (Congressperson's name)

A Letter Outline

Date
The Honorable (Full name of Representative or Senator)
Address

Dear Representative (Name):
or Dear Senator (Name):

Paragraph #1:

State the issue and if you are for or against it. "I would like to see legislation advocating the use of handicapped parking spaces for pregnant and new moms in our state."

Paragraph #2:

Briefly explain how such legislation could have benefitted you or a family member. DO NOT talk about people who use those spots and don't appear handicapped. DO NOT provide a play-by-play of pregnancy complications.

Paragraph #3:

Reaffirm your position.

Paragraph #4:

Thank your legislator for listening to your concerns. Ask for a response.

Sincerely,
(Your Signature)
Your printed name
Address
Telephone number

A Sample Letter

Dear Senator John Smith:

I urge you to introduce and support legislation advocating the use of handicapped parking spaces by pregnant and new moms in New York State. I envision pregnant women receiving a temporary Handicapped tag from their ob/gyn in the second or third trimester and returning it at their six-week postpartum checkup.

As a mother of four, I know first-hand how important this issue is. Had I such a right, I could have worked longer into my first pregnancy and not given up my income so soon. When my third baby was a newborn and I had to shop for the family's food with twin three-year-olds and a newborn, I often wished I could have parked closer or had another adult to escort us to the car.

While I will never benefit from such legislation, I have four young daughters who someday will. I can only hope this need is recognized long before they reach it.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I look forward to hearing your position on this issue.

Sincerely,

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts....A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child. — Sophia Loren


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