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As we know, a considerable amount of legislation is introduced every year in the Illinois General Assembly, some we will oppose and some we will upport. Rather than having our members go to Springfield, although that may be needed, there is an easier way for them to have an impact – and that is go to their own legislator’s district office. It can be called “grass roots” lobbying – and it works.

Contact information about legislators may be found in a variety of places, including on line by going the the Illinois General Assembly website. Although the legislator may only be there on a limited basis, he or she will have a staff person in the office most of the time. In the absence of having a personal contact with the legislator (which is the most effective), the next best person to contact is the staff in the District office. That person will be very willing to talk to everyone who calls or comes into the office and will communicate all such contacts directly to the legislator.

Be prepared to provide to the legislator or to the staff person:

  • information that establishes that you are a constituent, providing name, address and phone number,
  • if requested, the name of the organization you represent,

Unless it is a “get acquainted meeting,” what is the specific bill, or issue, that is the purpose of the visit:

  • Indicate the bill number, chief sponsor, and if known, where it is in the legislative process
  • The position of the organization on that bill and the reasons. Provide a fact sheet.
  • If the legislator is present, ask him or her, their position on the bill. If not, provide the same information to the staff person and ask if you can hear back as to the legislator’s position, and if so, when.

Do not criticize any political party, public official, legislator or organization who may be in opposition to your position.

Within 24 hours, send a letter, or a call, to the legislator, confirming the legislator’s position on your issue or bill. If you have received a “non-answer,” provide additional information. (ASAP, call in or fax a copy of this letter to the SUAA State Office.)

Follow-up, as may be necessary, with a call or a visit.

The District Office visit is not a substitute for letters or other forms of communication to legislators, but it is an important one.

Thank you for your involvement.

P.S. In visiting District Offices, I suggest you call for an appointment and that 2-4 individuals participate. Be appreciative, courteous and non-argumentative. In leaving, be sure to say “thank you” and follow-up.

Your organization has a lobbyist in Springfield, and his name is Dick Lockhart.

Adapted from the Work of Dick Lockhart nbsp;