VICTIMS OF CHILD ABUSE LAWS

How to Write a Good Letter to Your State Legislator (Concerning Legislative Proposals)

How to address your letters:

(TO YOUR ASSEMBLYMAN) The Honorable (first and last name) Legislative Office Building Albany, New York 12248
(TO YOUR SENATOR)
The Honorable (first and last name) The State Senate Building Albany, New York 12224

Find the name and address of your federal representatives

LETTER WRITING TIPS

bulletUse organization letterhead if you are with a firm or organization. 
bullet Use stationary or good quality paper.
bulletMake it easy to read. 
bullet Typed letters are best, but handwritten letters are acceptable. 
bullet If you write your letter by hand, be as neat as possible.
bulletInclude your return address.
bulletIndicate that you are a registered voter and identify yourself and sign your name.
bulletBe sure of your facts, be accurate and knowledgeable.
bulletBe brief. 
bullet Cover only one topic or issue per letter and keep your letter to one page, if possible.
bulletBe specific. 
bullet State the specific issue that concerns you and list the bill number or bill title, if you have it. 
bullet Do this in the first few sentences.
bulletBe polite. 
bullet You should be firm but courteous. 
bullet Anger and sarcasm will not win any points with your reader. 
bullet Offer positive suggestions and statements. Never threaten!
bulletBe original. 
bullet Form letters, petitions and pre-printed postcards do not carry nearly as much weight as the letter you compose and write yourself
bulletAsk for an answer. 
bullet You will be surprised how fast you'll get a letter back! 
bullet Ask your legislator to state his views on an issue and ask how he intends to vote.
bulletSay "thank you." 
bullet Most people only write when they disagree with the way their legislator votes. 
bullet It's important to let him know you appreciate a favorable vote too.
bulletDon't preach. 
bullet Remember, your single purpose for this letter is to influence your legislator's vote, not convert him to your religion.
bullet KEEP A COPY OF YOUR LETTER
Sample Letters: Letters to the President

Senator/Congressman

NY State Committee on Children and Families

Letters to and from the Committee Chair, NY State Senator Stephen Saland

Letter to NY State Assemblyman Greene

Senator Charles Schumer

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton

Letters of Intent to Visit Congressional Offices


Revised January 1998 Number 9