To Communicate With Legislators by Phone
A phone call allows you to quickly and easily communicate your message. This is the best way to convey a concern on a critical issue when timing is a factor.
To contact the legislator, use phone numbers listed in ALIS. Tell the legislative secretary who you are, what bill you are calling about and ask the secretary if you can speak to Senator (Representative) __________.
- If you have an opportunity to speak directly to your legislator, follow the general Principle of Advocacy Guidelines, but be very brief.
- Explain who you are, use the bill number to reference the legislation you are calling about, tell what your position is and, very briefly, why, and ask for his/her support.
- If a legislator asks you questions about the issue, use information provided by the UA State Relations office. If you're unsure of the response, tell them you will get back to them. Call the State Relations office to get the information you need and don't be intimidated by their questions. You have a right to express your opinion.
- Ask how they intend to vote.
- Thank them for their time, and, if they commit to vote as you've requested, for their support.
- If you are asked to leave a message with the secretary, tell the secretary the number of the bill you are calling about, tell her if you are a constituent, friend, etc. of the legislator, and tell her whether you support or oppose the bill. Ask for a return call.
