How to Write a Letter to your Congressman (Representative or Senator)

Step 1: Who am I writing my letter to?
Go to http://www.legis.state.ia.us/
Click on “Find Your Legislator”
Type in your home street address
The contact information for all of your legislators is listed

Step 2: How should a letter to my legislator be formatted?
You can find a letter template from APhA that will walk you through letter writing etiquette at http://www.aphanet.org/Content/NavigationMenu2/PolicyAdvocacy/APhAASPLegislativeAdvocacy/CommunicatingwithLegislators/Sample_Letter.htm
General Letter Writing Tips:
-Let your legislator know you are one of their constituents
-Tell your legislator who you are and where you are studying pharmacy
-Be straight forward and state what bill you are writing about and what action you want your legislator to take (Are you for or against the bill)
-Be polite
-Personal stories relating to the bill can be helpful in making your point
-Thank your legislator for their time
-Let your legislator know they can contact you if they have any questions regarding your position on the bill

Step 3: How do I mail my letter?
E-mail is a convenient contact method for you and your legislator
You can contact your legislator’s staff to see what communication method your legislator prefers
In the subject line of the e-mail be sure you include the name of the bill you are referring to and your hometown