FAQs
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What is advocacy?
Advocacy is taking action in support or opposition of a cause or issue.
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Why should I vote?
Voting is the right, responsibility, and privilege of every U.S. citizen over the age of 18. Your vote helps to determine who represents you in every level of government (local, state, and federal). The most basic way to influence the policies that affect you and your loved ones is to vote for leaders that represent your interests.
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How do I register to vote?
Click here for information from the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office on voter registration, including information on applying online.
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When does the legislative session start and end?
2019 Legislative Session – April 8 through June 6
2020 Legislative Session – March 9 through June 1
2012 Legislative Session – April 12 through June 10
Future Session information can be found on the legislature’s website: http://www.legis.la.gov/legisdocs/sessioninfo.pdf -
How can I find out who my legislator is?
Click here and enter your home address. This website will identify your U.S. Representative and Senators, as well as, the House and Senate member who represent you in the Louisiana Legislature.
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When is the best time to build a relationship with my legislator?
Before the legislative session starts! Citizens should develop relationships with their legislators between the months of June and February when legislators are not busy with the session. Contact your legislator and let him/her know the issues that are most important to you.
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How do I contact my legislator?
Click here for information on contacting your legislator. You can either contact them through their district office or at the Capitol. You can speak directly to a Representative or Senator at the Capitol during the legislative session by contacting the House switchboard at 225-342-6945 or the Senate switchboard at 225-342-2040.
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My legislator has voted the wrong way on my issues in the past. Should I bother contacting him/her?
Absolutely! There is always the possibility of changing hearts and minds through persistent attempts at education. Additionally, it is important for legislators to hear that their constituents want them to vote differently.
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Where can I find out information about the legislative session including copies of bills?
Go to http://www.legis.la.gov. This website includes contact information for legislators, the text of bills, and meeting notices. There are also links to a live feed of the legislature when they are in session, as well as, House/Senate committee meetings.
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How does a bill become a law in Louisiana?
Click here for a graphic representation of how a bill becomes a law.
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How do I get to the Louisiana State Capitol?
The Louisiana State Capitol is located at 900 North 3rd St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802.
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How do I contact Governor John Bel Edwards?
Click here to send a personal message to the Governor.
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How do I contact my local Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) Member?
Click here for information on BESE Members, including district maps and contact information.