The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office. If you decide to write a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness of the letter:
- Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If your letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly, e.g., House bill: H. R.______, Senate bill: S.______.
- Be courteous, to the point and include key information using examples to support your position.
- Address only one issue in each letter; and, if possible, keep the letter to one page.
Note: When writing to the Chair of a Committee or the Speaker of the House, it is proper to address them as:
Dear Mr. Chairman: or
Dear Madam Chairwoman: or
Dear Mr. Speaker:
