All politicians are keenly aware of the fact that it is their constituents who hold the keys to their political futures. Therefore, constituent concerns are of the utmost concern to politicians. The best way you can affect the outcome of legislation is to directly communicate your views to your lawmakers. REMEMBER: Your lawmakers work for you! Since the primary concern of all politicians is to get re-elected, be sure you communicate your concerns with your own elected officials first! Then, if you wish to express your views to others who don`t directly represent you, you can do so. But make sure your legislators hear from you first!

 

--Effective Letters
--Effective Phone Calls


Effective Letters  or E-Mails BACK TO TOP

Be clear on your position before you begin to write your letter. Show your knowledge in a concise manner and clearly state how you stand on the issue.

Write your own message. Write about your personal experience and how the issues affects you. Do not be overly dramatic.

Mention legislation. Cite a specific bill number if possible.

Request specific action. State exactly what you want the elected official to do – how you would like them to vote, ask them to request a hearing or co-sponsor legislation.

Identify yourself and include a return address, telephone number and email in your letter.

 

If your legislator is a member of the Idaho Sportsmen's Caucus please take the time to thank him or her for this commitment to working on issues of concern to Idaho's hunters, anglers and trappers.


Effective Phone Calls BACK TO TOP

 

The Statehouse phone number  800-626-0471 is a centralized "800" number for all legislators.  Make sure you know your representative's name so you can tell them who to direct the message to. You can also ask them to direct the message to all the members of a particular committee.  You can find your senator's name and house member's name on our Contact your Legislator page

 

Prepare. Have an outline of the points you wish to make.

Identify yourself by giving your name, address and phone number.

Mention legislation. Cite a specific bill number if possible.

Request specific action. State exactly what you want the elected official to do – how you would like them to vote, ask them to request a hearing or co-sponsor legislation.

Don’t argue. Be courteous, direct and fair.

Follow up. Send a thank you note to the legislator or staff person you spoke to and use this opportunity to restate your position in writing.
 

If your legislator is a member of the Idaho Sportsmen's Caucus please take the time to thank him or her for this commitment to working on issues of concern to Idaho's hunters, anglers and trappers.