Civilrights.org

Lobbying

Preparing for the Visit

• Make an appointment to visit your member of Congress when s/he is home on long weekends or during congressional recesses. Congress typically convenes in early January and adjourns in early October. Dates vary, but recesses generally take place around the following times: President’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, the month of August, and Labor Day. Be persistent - you may need to make a number of calls to arrange the meeting.
• Make clear which issue(s) you want to discuss (no more than three).
• Gather information. Learn about your legislators’ records issues of interest. Become familiar with the opposition's views and arguments on the issues to help you answer questions.
• Prepare materials to leave with the legislator or staff: copies of relevant fact sheets, and a memo summarizing your main concerns.
• Work in coalition to underscore the broad appeal of your position. Agree on specific talking points and lobbying goals and designate a lead spokesperson for the meeting.
• Confirm the appointment the morning of or day before the meeting. Arrive on time.

During the Visit

• Introduce yourself and start on a positive note. If s/he recently voted in support of a priority issue, thank her/him.
• Clearly state the position of your organization or the coalition you are representing.
• Explain your position with facts, but also use personal stories when possible. Let the legislator understand the personal ramifications or benefits resulting from their actions.
• If you don't understand something, ask for an explanation.
• Ask the legislator or staff to clarify what their position is on the issue.
• Ask the legislator to take some specific actions such as sponsoring a bill, voting for or against a pending measure, or meeting with your branch or your state board.
• If you don't know the answer to a question, say so, but offer to get an answer.
• Thank the legislator and staff as you leave.

After the Visit

• Write or call legislators and staff to thank them for their time. Remind them of anything they may have agreed to do and send additional information.
• Share the results of your meetings with the coalition. Share insights you have gained about legislators’ concerns and ask others to lobby.
• Find out when the legislators will be in your home district hosting town hall meetings or forums and organize a group to attend.
• Maintain communication with legislators and their staff through letters, calls, and visits.