While it sometimes appears to be a never-ending chore, it is important to contact you elected officials to let them know not only the facts, but you opinion on pending legislation. Remember, YOU VOTE! Some advocacy sites provide pre-written form letters for the purpose of e-mailing all the correct buzz words and talking points to selected politicians, en masse. Although these form letters are counted, they do not carry as much weight as prose written in your own words. While you may want to contact every representative and senator regarding issues on which you are passionate, it is generally more effective to contact only those officials in your particular district or municipality. Find your Michigan State Representatives and State Senators Find your Michigan US Congressman and US Senators Some proposed legislation may be so flawed or poorly written that you may feel the need to comment on each clause. If that situation occurs, it is suggested that you indicate that there are many problem areas in the proposed legislation but that you would like to address only one or two points that you believe most important. Then in another letter, email, or call, contact your elected officials AGAIN and elaborate on the other points! You can make frequent contact without being a crank. And since you are an EXPERT on dogs and, most likely, your Representative or Senator, IS NOT - give them the benefit of your counsel on the subject.
2. Always refer to the specific bill number in any communication. 3. Be specific on your position and give reasons and example for your support or opposition.
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| WRITING A LETTER TO YOUR ELECTED PUBLIC OFFICIALS |
| mapbd.org |