Tips for Calling Louisiana Policymakers

Why You Should Call Your Policymaker

Policymakers expect to get phone calls from the public. This is one of the ways they can hear from their constituents and make decisions based on good information. A constituent is a person the legislator was elected to represent.

LaCAN action alerts may ask you to call your policymaker rather than write. This is most important when a decision on an issue is being made soon.

Getting Ready

Find out who your policymaker is. Click here for your State Legislators. Click here for Legislators’ contact information. Click here for your BESE Member. Click here for a list of other policymakers.

Plan what you want to say. Look below for a sample script. You should include:

  • Your name,
  • Where you live,
  • The issue you want to discuss, and 
  • The specific action you want the policymaker to take.

Make the call. While in session, Representatives can be reach by calling 225-342-6945. Senators can be reach by calling 225-342-2040.

Steps

Introduce yourself. Let your policymaker know you are a constituent. They are much more likely to listen to the people who help keep them in office.

Ask if this is a good time to talk. If not, request a good time to call back.

Follow your plan. Be brief. Then listen.

End with thank you.

If the policymaker is not able to speak with you, leave a message. Be polite because staff can influence how your message is shared. Keep your message short. Include the information you planned to share if you got to talk to your policymaker. Leave your phone number and the best time to reach you in case they have questions.

Sample Script

“Hi. My name is Vicki Voter. I’m calling for Representative Roberts. I live at 123 Advocacy Avenue in your district.”

If you get the policymaker, ask: “Is this a good time to talk?”

If not, ask: “What would be a good time for me to call back?”

If you get an answering machine, leave a brief message: “I’m calling to urge you to support more funding for Individual and Family Support Services for people with developmental disabilities in Louisiana. Many families, like my own, need this service. Please call me at (225) 555-5555 if you have any questions. 

Again, I request your support of funding for the Individual and Family Support Program for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Thank you.”

Follow Up

Stay in contact. If you could not answer a question on the call, be sure to call back with new information.

Stay positive. Don’t worry if your message is not returned after a couple of days; just call again.

Share your experience. Be sure to let your LaCAN Leader know about your call.

Other Tips

Always be respectful and polite.

Be brief.

Reference

Connecticut Health Policy Project (n.d.). Calling a policymaker.