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5 Calls makes it easy for you to reach your United State Congress members and make your voice heard. They research issues, write scripts that clearly articulate a progressive position, figure out the most influential decision-makers, and collect phone numbers for their offices.
It is accessible via a webpage or you can download the app on your phone or tablet.
If you are calling or writing your state or local representatives, it does not have to be an Honors Essay. Opportunities to express a point of view on a position are too often missed because of fear that it isn’t polished or persuasive enough.
- After you learn about the issue, you can call, write (e-mail) or visit in person:
- IDENTIFY yourself and give your home address when phoning or writing.
- DESCRIBE the issue or bill that concerns you.
- Refer to the BILL NUMBER, if possible.
- Tell the legislator what ACTION you want.
- Mention any special CREDENTIALS you have.
- State key REASONS for your views.
- Put a HUMAN FACE on the issue; share personal experiences.
- COUNTER ARGUMENTS the opposition is using, if you can.
- If you make a mistake, correct it immediately.
- Limit writing to ONE ISSUE or one bill.
- Be BRIEF.
- Be COURTEOUS
- Ask for a REPLY
SAMPLE TELEPHONE CALL
Receptionist: Good morning. Senator Joan Smith’s office.
You: Hi. My name is Jane Q. Public and I live at 100 Main Street in Hometown.
Receptionist: May I help you?
You: I am calling to urge Senator Smith to vote for Senate Bill 159, which allows the Election Commission to automatically register eligible voters when they apply for service at the Motor Vehicle Department. It is an efficient way to encourage and allow citizens to participate in elections. I hope she will support this important bill.
Receptionist: I will let the senator know.
You: Thank you. Good-bye.
SAMPLE LWVMC STATEMENTS/LETTERS
Re: Opposition to AB61/SB46
The State of Wisconsin has specific requirements which must be met in order to receive an alcohol license. Completion of a responsible beverage server training course which includes an understanding of the rules regarding alcohol sales is one of those requirements. It is an obligation on the licensee to adhere to those laws.
Currently persons who have not attained the legal drinking age of 21 years and who commit an underage violation of the alcohol laws are subject to penalties including fines ranging from $250 to $1,000. It is appropriate for the State to impose this penalty for a State violation.
AB61/SB46 would allow a beverage licensee that serves alcohol to an underage person to sue either the underage person or their parent, and if they prevail, the court MUST award $1,000 plus costs and attorneys fees (which could be substantial). Establishment of such a penalty is inappropriate as it is specifically targeted to add to the profit of a licensed business.
There are already substantial penalties in place for underage drinking. It is the responsibility of a licensed establishment selling a regulated substance to make sure of ages in their sales. If they are unable to do so, the license should be withdrawn. The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin opposes AB61/SB46 and urges your opposition as well.
Re: Parking Fees in County Parks.
The League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County believes that our County parks are important to the quality of life for all of the citizens in our county. We believe that it is an obligation of the County to ensure our parks continue to meet the needs and wishes of its citizens.
We do understand, however, the difficulty in supplying the funds required to meet the needs of county park services, especially in view of the controls on revenue put in place by the State Legislature. The County Board has continued its efforts to support funding for our parks initiating public/private partnerships. The pay-for-parking plan, however, is not an appropriate financing option.
The League opposes the establishment of parking fees in public parklands. This change will inevitably decrease attendance for those with limited means and therefore limit access to public park amenities based on income. Public access means access for all. Thank you for your consideration of this important matter.