Retired Public Employees Assocation Santa Cruz RPEA

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RPEA Chapter 9 Surf City- Santa Cruz has been serving retired public employees since 1958.

Tips for Talking with Your Legislator

Keep in mind that your goal is to develop an ongoing personal relationship with your elected representatives, as well as to influence their position on specific issues or bills, Here are a few suggestions to remember when speaking to them:

  • Know who your legislator is before making initial contact on an issue. 
  • Find out what legislative committees your legislator serves on. 
  • Do not be intimidated. Legislators will view you as the expert on the issue.
  • Share your personal story if it helps to make your point. 
  • Do not assume that your legislator libraries and their impact on the community. Take the time to educate him/her. Do not use jargon. 
  • Know your issue. Provide facts and figures to back up your position. Refer to the talking points and other materials on the push card. 
  • Remember all causes are good causes. You must convince your legislator that there is something extra special about yours.
  • Don’t debate with a legislator or give ultimatums such as “I won’t vote for you if you do not support my position.” Respect the legislator’s right to disagree with you. 
  • Know your opposition. In tough economic times it can be expected that there will be budget cuts. You are simply asking to maintain current levels of funding – not for an increase. 
  • Put the legislator at ease by convincing him/her that you are there to serve as a resource.  Act like a partner, not an
  • Put broad policy issues in a local perspective.  Legislators who know how issues will impact local voters tend to grasp ideas more easily and are generally more receptive. 
  • Be a good listener and hear out what your legislator has to say on the issue.
  • Be sure to thank the legislator for taking the time to hear your position. 
  • Do not be disappointed if your legislator sends as aide.  Aides are critical to the process.
  • Spend your time working with legislators who haven’t make up their minds. 
  • Be brief; prepared; clear; honest; accurate; persuasive; timely; persistent; and grateful. 
  • Always follow up with a written thank you note, and amplify your main points. 
  • When your legislator goes the extra mile, you may consider acknowledging their efforts by writing a letter to the editor in your local paper.