Advocacy -- Shaping Public Policy

Agriculture at Colorado State University Cooperative Extensioin

Advocacy -- Shaping Public Policy

By Jane Frobose,
Colorado State University
Extension, Denver County

Speak up . make a difference.

Legislators love to hear about issues that matter to their constituents. They deal with hundreds of proposed pieces of legislation a year and can't be expected to know that a proposed law is important to you unless you tell them.

Public policy is the result of the laws and programs that legislators at State and National levels create to govern our communities and us. Although it may seem as if lawmakers have all the power, citizens have voting power to keep or remove legislators from office. Lawmakers care what constituents, the residents of their home districts, have to say. If they don't, they are out of office. You can have powerful influence.

Take Five

Simply take five minutes each day to read the newspaper, watch news broadcasts or search the Internet to become aware and knowledgeable of issues that affect you and others.

The Colorado Legislature meets from January through May each year. Typically, more than 500 bills are introduced each year. The computer has greatly enhanced the availability of information about what and when legislation will be reviewed. The State of Colorado web site provides linkages to State government. Current status of bills is updated daily. You may also call the Bill Room (303-866-3055) for current information.

Use your Voice

Using your voice to speak out on an issue can make a big impact. Speaking out doesn't even require that you say a word. You can make a phone call, send a fax or, to some legislators, an e-mail. Legislators have a direct phone line at the Capitol and at their offices. You can find their numbers on the State of Colorado web site.

Write a letter

Without a doubt, politicians read and count their mail. A single letter can make a difference. Most state legislators consider receiving fifteen letters on a topic to be a large opinion base. Personalized, handwritten letters are the most effective. Form letters, postcards, and petitions are read and counted but do not carry the same weight as a personal letter from a constituent.

Tips For Contacting Legislators -- Here are some tips to use when contacting your legislators about potential legislation:

When contacting legislators by telephone:

Identify yourself by name and home address.
Identify the bill you wish to talk about, by name and number if possible.
Briefly state your position and how you wish your legislator to vote.
Ask for your legislator's stance on the bill or issue.
Ask for a commitment to vote for your position, but don't argue if the legislator has an opposing view or has not yet decided.
If your legislator needs additional information, call a supporting organization for the information and send it to your legislator as soon as possible.
Recognize that legislators are often away from the office, on the floor or in committee, so you may talk to an aide or be asked to leave a voice mail message. Use the same basic rules.
If you'd rather leave a message than talk in person, call in the evening.

When contacting legislators by letter or electronic methods:

Write briefly, on one subject at a time, and refer to bills by name and number. Write only one page.
Make clear your position and exactly what you want your legislator to do.
Personalize your communication by telling in your own words how the legislation will affect you and others you know.
Sign your letter with your name and home address so that your legislator knows you are a constituent. Also include your phone number.
When a legislator votes as you asked, send a thank you note.

or contact your local Colorado State University Extension office.

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Updated Tuesday, November 27, 2007