How to Correspond with your Legislator

Address your legislator correctly:

The Honorable (Full Name)
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
PO Box 202020
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2020

The Honorable (Full Name)
Senate of Pennsylvania
Senate Box 2030 (District Number)
Harrisburg, PA 17120-2030

Dear Representative/Senator (Last Name):

  • Write on your personal or business letterhead, if possible, and put your signature over your typed name.
  • Identify yourself in your letter. For example: “I am a REALTOR® working for XYZ Realty in Anytown, PA” or “I am the broker/owner of ABC Realty in Anytown, PA.” 
  • Be sure your exact return address is on the letter, not just the envelope. Envelopes sometimes get thrown away before the letter is answered. 
  • Write to your own legislator. Tell your views to the legislator who represents you. Legislators care about how their constituents feel.
  • Be specific. Clearly identify the particular legislation about which you are writing. Instead of “I’m writing to discuss tax reform as covered in the newspaper,” write, “I’m writing in support of House Bill 1, printer’s number 3.” Also, because bills are often amended, it is wise to identify the specific provisions or version that you are discussing. 
  • State your reason for writing. Your own personal experience is your best supporting evidence. Explain how the issue would affect you, your family, business, profession, or community. Try to incorporate PAR legislative talking points where possible. 
  • Be reasonable. Don’t ask for the impossible. Do not threaten them by saying you will never vote for them again. It will not help your cause and may even harm it. 
  • Ask your legislator to state their position on the issue in their reply. As a constituent, you are entitled to know. 
  • Consider the factor of timing. Write your position on the bill now. Your legislators need to hear your side of the issue before the bill is considered. 
  • Thank your legislator if they pleased you with a vote on an issue. Everybody appreciates a complimentary letter and remembers it. On the other hand, if a vote is contrary to your position, don’t hesitate to let them know. That will be remembered too

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May 22, 2012
Date: May 22, 2012 Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Date: May 22, 2012 Time: 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm