7/31/2019 How to Write a Letter to Congress
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How to write a letter to Congress
People who think members of Congress ignore constituent mail are
plain wrong. Concise, well thought out,personal letters are one of
the most effective ways Americans can influence law-makers. But,
members ofCongress get hundreds of letters every day; make sure
yours has an impact!
Tips
Dos
1. Identify yourself. Include your name, title (if you have one-
and mother counts!) and address.2. Stay on topic- one issue per
letter.3. Keep it short- no more than one page.4. Be respectful
without gushing.5. Be specific- cite facts and examples. (See our
fact sheets for details!)
Donts
1. Use vulgarity, profanity, or threats. The first two are just
plain rude and the third one could get you a from the Secret
Service.
2. Demand a response.
3. Fail to include your name and address, even in email. Your
letter wont count if it doesnt come with aaddress!
Writing Your Letter
Paragraph 1: Why you are writing and who are you?
1. Say who you are. Anonymous letters go nowhere. Include your
correct name, address and email addres2. List your credentials-
your title of mom/aunt/kindergarten teacher is important! As is
your status as
resident of your state or someone who voted for a
politician/might vote for them in the future.3. Provide specific
information about how the topic affects you and others. If a
certain bill is involved, ci
the correct title or number.
Paragraph 2: Provide more detail.
Use specific examples or evidence to support your position- (see
our fact sheets for details!)
Paragraph 3: Close and request the action you want taken
1. State what it is you want done or recommend a course of
action (i.e vote yes on)2. Thank the member for taking the time to
read your letter.3. Your signature should include your name and
address
7/31/2019 How to Write a Letter to Congress
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Sample Letter
Dear Senator Casey,
My name is Lucille Ball, and I am writing this letter to ask
that you vote in favor of Mercury Air Toxics Rule.As a mother I am
very concerned about the health of my child- I cook healthy food
and teach healthy habits,but there is little I can do about the
toxins my baby breathes. Although I only moved to Pennsylvania
fromHollywood a few years ago, I love my new state, and want it to
be a healthy place to raise my child.
My baby, Little Ricky, has asthma and he is not alone. One in
four children in Pennsylvania suffers from asthnd the number is
going up. The Mercury and Air Toxins Rule would limit the
particulate pollution that cau
his attacks and limit the amount of poisonous toxins he
breathes. One in 10 children in the US are born withdangerous
levels of mercury that can cause damage to their brains, lungs and
hearts. Pennsylvania is the seconargest emitter of toxic mercury
air pollution- and we must do better.
Please support the Mercury and Air Toxins Rule. If Senator
Inhofe comes to you with his CRA, pleaseemember the mothers of
Pennsylvania and keep your signature off it.
Sincerely,
Lucille Ball
[email protected] Mockingbird LanePhiladelphia, PA
19103
