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CONTACTING YOUR LEGISLATOR

 ABOR Officers

Writing to Your Legislator

  • Your letter should be brief and to the point; two or three paragraphs are usually adequate. Address only one issue per letter, clearly and concisely.
  • Address your elected officials properly.
  • Write your own letter, handwritten is preferable, if legible; typewritten is acceptable so long as it is in one's own words. Never use a form letter. Also, use your own personal or business stationery. Do not use university stationery and do not present your views and opinions as those of the Board of Regents or the universities. You are representing only your views and opinions.
  • Identify yourself as a constituent, a resident of District ___.
  • Clearly identify the legislation with which you are concerned and give the bill number. State your reasons, in an informed way for your support or opposition to the bill.
  • Be positive and constructive. Try to say something complimentary in the first paragraph.
  • Ask your Legislator to state his/her position on the issue in his/her reply to you. If a vote on a bill is pending, ask how he/she will vote and why.
  • Time the arrival of your letter. Make sure it reaches your Legislator before the legislation is acted upon in the committee on the floor.
  • If the legislator votes the way you ask, be sure to write a thank you note. Never express anger. If you are not pleased with the vote, you may wish to express disappointment, but hope that in future the legislator may change his/her mind.
  • Write on a regular basis. When you establish a record of correspondence, you will develop clout on future issues.

    • WRITE TO:

    The Honorable (name of Legislator)

    Arizona State (Senate) or (House of Representatives)

    1700 West Washington

    Phoenix, AZ 85007


    The Honorable Janet Napolitano
    Governor of Arizona
    1700 W. Washington, Executive Tower
    Phoenix, AZ 85007

    Phoning Your Legislator

  • Same rules apply as above. Identify yourself and use courtesy.
  • As in writing, be sure you refer to the bill number and identify the content of the bill, giving your reasons for support or opposition.
  • Do not engage in debate or discussions with the secretary. Most messages are carefully noted and relayed.