Get Involved: District Office Visits
Why Visit the District Office?
To meet with your elected representative
To discuss your position on a particular issue
To share your personal experience/community perspective
To get a commitment from legislator
To establish the beginning of a lasting relationship
Consider Summer Recess Dates: July 17 – August 17 2015
Scheduling a Visit
Find your legislator at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html
Visit webpage for contact info and meeting request instructions.
Submit request via email or web form. Follow up with a call 2-3 days later
Build a Team
Prepare Request Details:
who you are/group you represent,
why you want to meet/policy priorities,
names of anyone who will attend the meeting with you,
when you would like to meet, and
your contact information (phone number, address, email address)
Meeting Preparation
Be familiar with the legislator
Check status of your bills http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billSearchClient.xhtml
Know the Supporters & Opponents
Prepare Materials to Leave Behind
Take an Outline
Plan for 15 minutes
Arrive 5-10 minutes early, be patient
Be Professional & Polite
Follow up with a thank you email or letter. Include:
the issue/bill number,
your position, and
your contact information
Talking Points
Introductions
Name and relevant personal/professional information
Statement of the Meeting Purpose
Bill title and number & your position
Personalize Your Message
Why is this issue important to you?
Get a Commitment
Determine the Follow up
Use your own words
Be Concise
Connect to Values
Stick to your message
Be courteous
Say Thank You
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