Thursday, January 14, 2010
Connect With Your Lawmakers This Session
Building relationships with your legislators is a critical part of having your voice heard and advocating for a pro-business environment in Maryland. Elected officials view their constituents as a resource and often express that they do not hear from members of the business community enough. Take time during the 2010 General Assembly Session to connect with your elected officials and voice your concerns and opinions.
Plan a visit: Schedule a meeting with your legislator. Some tips on planning your visit include:
- Make an appointment.
- Be prompt and patient.
- Take advantage of any opportunity to discuss the issue with the proper staffer.
- Let them know you are a Chamber member. That way they know you are active in the community and that you stay up to speed on legislative news.
- Be prepared and try to focus one issue. Organize your thoughts and make notes to keep you on track.
- Be direct and ask for their support.
- Prepare a one-page fact sheet with your main points to present them. Legislators deal with many people regarding many issues, it is helpful to leave a written reminder.
- Thank them for their time and follow up with a thank you note.
- Share the information you gained with the Chamber. Contact the appropriate member of the public policy team.
Also, feel free invite your legislators to visit your place of business. This will allow them to become familiarized with your company and the issues that have the most impact on your business. Click here for more tips on scheduling a visit with a legislator.
Write your legislator: A personal letter from a business person whose business is being impacted by a public policy issue is a valuable resource for legislators. An e-mail, fax or postal mail is appropriate and can help you get your concerns heard.
Be sure to identify yourself as a Maryland Chamber member. It is important to be concise and specific in your letter; write about only one issue per letter and state your purpose for writing in the first paragraph. Be direct and urge for specific action. Be personal; explain how the issue affects you and your business. Finally, be informative, providing background and supporting materials for your position.
For more tips on writing to your legislator, click here.
