How to Influence Your Legislator

How to Influence Your Legislator

With the assembly passage of A-15, the focus moves to the Senate, where Shirley Turner has sponsored a companion bill, S-1861. It’s more important than ever for members to speak out against this bill.

Here are some tips on how to communicate with your local legislator:

E-Mail If you’re pressed for time, e-mail is probably the most effective way to reach out. It also allows you to keep a record of correspondence.

Phone Call Most legislators track interest on an issue by the number of phone calls. If you already know your legislator and his or her staff, a call can let them know that you are watching.

Snail Mail A well-written letter stands out because of its rarity. It also makes a highly effective thank-you.

Personal Meeting NJSBA’s Governmental Relations staff will be more than happy to help you coordinate a meeting. Once you’ve met with your legislator, all the other contact methods become more effective, since they build on an established relationship.

The Office of Legislative Services has contact information for all N.J. lawmakers.

No matter how you communicate with your legislator, be passionate and informed on the issues, but also be respectful and polite. The goal is to build bridges with lawmakers, not burn them. —Ray Pinney, NJSBA advocacy coordinator.