A well-written letter is one of the best ways to let your legislator know your thoughts and opinions about a particular issue. Here are some tips for getting your message across effectively:
Be brief. Legislators have many demands on their time. They appreciate letters that are short and to the point.
Put the message in your own words. Form letters and petitions don’t have the same impact as personal, informed opinions.
Address your letter to a specific legislator or legislators. Depending on your message, you may want to write to the sponsor of a bill, certain members of a committee, or your own legislators. Don’t address your letter to the entire Legislature.
Identify bills by their number, title, and sponsor.
Explain your position on the bill and ask for the legislator’s support or opposition.
Give any sources of information that you use to make your point.
Include your name, address, and a little about who you are (for example, where you work or what school you attend).
Address letters to:
Senator XXXX Montana Senate State Capitol PO Box 200500 Helena, MT 59620-0500
or
Rep. XXXX Montana House of Representatives State Capitol PO Box 200400 Helena, MT 59620-0400
By Telephone
During sessions: Call the Session Information Desk at (406) 444-4800 to leave a message for as many as five legislators per call. Your message will be delivered directly to the legislators.
Between sessions: Call legislators directly using the telephone numbers provided in legislative rosters and in published legislative guides.
By E-mail
During sessions: You may use this e-mail form, or use the e-mail addresses printed with the legislative rosters and provided in published legislative guides.
Between sessions: You may use the e-mail addresses provided with the legislative rosters and published in legislative guides.
