Share your voice with your legislator during the Congressional recess

August 11, 2013

Share your voice with your legislator during the Congressional recess

When Congress is on recess, Aug. 3-Sept. 8, most lawmakers return to their home states to connect with their constituents.

That makes recesses a great opportunity to invite your members of Congress to an event, set up a meeting at their local office, attend a town hall event, or find other personal ways to deliver your messages about the issues facing families and individuals with special health care needs and/or disabilities.

Use these tips and tools to meet with your members of Congress while they're home on recess. If you need additional guidance, feel free to contact us: 317 944 8982 info@fvindiana.org

· Be Professional and courteous and polite.

Let them know from the beginning why you are visiting or contacting them.

· Be Brief.

Give your position and make your point as clearly and concisely as possible. Their schedule is at least as busy as yours.

· Be Logical.

An emotional appeal is not enough. Back your arguments with facts and substance. Explain how proposed legislation will affect you.

· Educate them about the issues.

They have to make decisions on hundreds of issues each legislative session and they need credible information from you to help them with their decisions. If you give them valid information, they will continue to use you as a resource in the future.

· It’s ok to research.

When asked a question, answer it briefly, but answer it. If the question requires some research, say so, and be sure you get back to them. Restate your position.

Thank them for any work or assistance they have done on your behalf. Be calm. Remember they are people just like you!

Contact info for the Senate:

United States Senate

Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121

The Honorable Daniel Coats (R-IN)

United States Senate

493 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510-1401

202-224-5623

www.coats.senate.gov/contact/

The Honorable Joe Donnelly (D-IN)

United States Senate