Don't be intimidated by the thought of approaching elected officials. State legislators especially are receptive to constituent comments. You elect them, after all.
Be concise. Your message should be short and direct. It is fine to express your personal opinion.
Your expertise is your personal experience. You don't need to be an expert. The more facts and arguments you have on your side, the better, but politicians want to hear how the issue affects you-not a bunch of dry statistics.
Cultivate legislative staff. Establish a positive relationship with staff persons. They are usually more accessible, and can have tremendous influence over an issue.
Be honest. If you don't know the answer to something, admit it and try to get the info later. Also, when working with legislators who will sponsor your bill, be sure to be up front about any potential problem areas.
Research your legislators. Ask around, talk to others who have worked for legislative change--on any issue-and ask their advice on which legislators are most effective or which committees are most likely to approve of your bill.
Identify your bill or issue clearly. Whenever you get a chance
to lobby elected officials, don't just refer to your effort by the bill number.
And always make it clear whether you are asking for their support or opposition
to the matter.
During the legislative session, constantly check your bill's status. This can
be done on the internet through the Texas legislative web site: www.caDitol.state.tx.us.
At certain times, action occurs quickly and with little notice.
Keep things friendly. Maintain a positive relationship with all legislators-they may be in this office or a higher one for decades. Threats and hostile or sarcastic remarks are not productive. Do not create any enemies.
Avoid party politics. If we don't have allies in Texas on both sides of the aisle, our bills will go nowhere.
Make a plan to follow up. This can be done through a staff person in the legislator's office.
State Representative Roberto Alonzo of Dallas was particularly helpful to the ACORN citizen lobbyists