For a legislator, letters are the barometer that measure political pressure back home. Therefore, the impact of writing a powerful letter to your elected official should not be underestimated. You don’t have to be an expert to write to your legislator. It is your interest, concern, and viewpoint that is most important to the legislator. Your letter should be designed to influence your legislator. The following are a few letter writing tips:

• Identify yourself as a constituent.
  
• Personalize your letter.
  
• Keep your letter short.
  
• Cover only one (1) issue per letter.
  
• Keep your letter specific about the topic/issue and refer to the bill number when possible.
  
• In your letter, state reasons for your positions, put reasons in human terms, and use personal experiences.
  
• Your letter should focus on two or three (2-3) main points – be accurate.
  
• Ask for specific action in your letter.
  
• Cite legislator's vote or position on similar or related issue within your letter.
  
• Include your name and address in the letter; use of your own letterhead is excellent.
  
• In your letter, ask for a response and clear understanding of the legislator’s position.

Remember: If you don’t write, your legislator will only hear from the other side! Public officials never hesitate to write back.

Massachusetts Senate

Massachusetts House of Representatives