COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE

Because every legislator considers a large number of Bills on a wide range of subject matter, the first essential ingredient of an effective letter to a legislator is a specific reference to the particular Bill which interests you. Refer to the Bill by its official designation, such as H.B. 478 (for House Bills) or S.B. 478 (for Senate Bills.) The second important element is a brief description of the Bill’s provisions which concern you, and an explanation of the effect which these provisions will have on you, your company or your employment. This informs the legislator of your interest in the bill, and clarifies the practical effect of the legislation as you see it.

          The third element of an effective letter is your advice to your legislator as to how, in your opinion, he or she should cast their vote.

          State Senators and State Representatives receive correspondence from their constituents at both their home and Springfield offices. It usually is better to address them in Springfield when the legislature is in session

Senator John J. Doe
Senate Post Office
State Capitol
Springfield, Illinois 62706

Dear Senator Doe:

Representative John J. Doe
House Post Office
State Capitol
Springfield, Illinois 62706

Dear Representative Doe:

          Congress is in session for a longer period that the Illinois General Assembly, therefore, U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives receive most of their legislative correspondence in Washington. All you have to do is address your letter to your Congressman as shown below.

The Salutation is simply:

Dear Sir (or madam).

The Addressing of the letter and/or envelope is:

The Honorable (full name)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
or
The Honorable (full name)
U.S. Senate Washington, D.C.