Write Legislators
Another great way to inform legislators of your opinion is to write a letter. A letter from a constituent can be very powerful and personal letters show that you really care about the issue.
Handwritten letters can be as persuasive as typed letters. A handwritten letter gives the appearance of a grassroots ordinary citizen communication, rather than a communication from a special interest group. Be sure, however, to write legibly.
E-mailing letters instead of sending them through the mail are also effective. The same rules apply to e-mails that apply to letters.
To make your letter effective:
- Find your legislator
- Keep your letter short. Be concise and limit your letter to one or two pages.
- Identify yourself. Let your legislator know that you are a constituent.
- Be polite. Like most of us, legislators will respond better to positive communication. Start by recognizing their support on specific pieces of legislation.
- Explain your position. Be clear and concise with regard to your position on the issue you address in your letter.
- Ask for a response. Be clear about what you would like your legislator to do and request a reply to your letter.
Below is a sample e-mail that WCCC members have sent to legislators in the past.
[fill in your legislator's name here]:
I am writing to you today about Wisconsin Act 405. I strongly oppose any law that limits my choices as a consumer. The government does not have a right to interfere in my personal, private financial transactions. Further, I am opposed to any state-sponsored database as they pose a threat to my personal privacy.
As a resident of Wisconsin and one of your constituents, I urge you to work to repeal Wisconsin Act 405 and restore consumer access to short term lending options.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Address Here]
You can find out who your legislators are and what their addresses are by going to the Wisconsin State Legislature website.
Click a link below for other ways to get involved