Tips for Calling Your Legislator

Be Prepared - Think, or even speak through, what you want to say.

Find the Right Telephone Number - There are numerous ways to find phone numbers.

• Ask your county Farm Bureau.
• Use the Legislative Action Center.
  Type in your address and your legislator's contact information appears.
• Use a switchboard.
  U.S. Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121
  State of Illinois Switchboard: 217-782-2000

Talk to Right Person - Remember that telephone calls may be taken by a staff member, not the legislator. When asking a legislator to vote yes or no, you can share that with the person answering the phone. If you need to say more, ask to speak with the aide who handles the issue.

Identify Yourself - State you name, address, and indicate that you are a constituent.

Be Brief and Concise - Tell the person answering the phone that you would like to leave a brief message, such as: "Please tell Senator/Representative (Name) that I support/oppose (House Bill ___ or Senate Bill ___)."

Provide Reasons - Say why you support or oppose a bill. Ask for your legislator's position on the bill. You may also request a written response to your telephone call.

Say Thank You - Thank the person answering the phone for his/her time. After a vote, call again and thank your legislator for their vote.