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Written correspondence is an effective way of conveying your viewpoint to a Member of Congress or key committee. It is also the most popular, though
e-mail is also becoming popular. To ensure an effective letter that does not get lost in the shuffle, consider the following tips:
1. State the purpose of the letter clearly in the first paragraph. If
commenting on a specific piece of legislation, identify by its bill number.
2. Focus on only one issue per letter. If you have multiple issues, compose a separate letter for each.
3. Use examples in
your letter and be specific. Look for a "hook" to link your issue to a constituent interest of the Member. If writing to a Congressional committee, make sure that your issue (or the bill you are commenting on) is
within their jurisdiction.
Addressing Correspondence:
To a Representative:
The Honorable [Full Name]
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Congress[man or woman] [Last Name]:
To a Senator:
The Honorable [Full Name]
U.S. Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator [Last Name]:
To Committee Leadership:
When writing a Member of Congress in a leadership capacity,
add their leadership position and the committee (or subcommittee) name after their full name and before the house of Congress in the address. It is also proper to address the Member with their leadership position in
the greeting.
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