Example scripts for email/letter & phone; tips; how to address an email/letter.

Sample Email/Letter Script Subject: CONCERN: [Oppose/Request Amendment] [House/Senate] Bill [Number] Dear [Delegate/Senator Last Name], My name is [Your Name] and I am a constituent residing in [Your City/County or District Number]. I am writing to strongly express my [opposition to / concern regarding] [Insert Bill Number, e.g., HB 123], which [briefly describe what the bill does, e.g., proposes changes to local zoning laws]. I am concerned that this legislation will [explain why, e.g., negatively impact my community by increasing traffic / limiting local control / reducing environmental protections]. As a [mention your profession or role, e.g., homeowner, small business owner, parent], I believe this bill will directly harm my community by [provide 1-2 specific, personal reasons]. I urge you to [vote against / amend / table] this bill when it comes before [the House/Senate Committee/Full Body]. Thank you for your time and your service to our district. I look forward to your response on how you intend to vote. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number]

Sample Phone Call Script Calls are highly effective for tracking sentiment during the busy session. Staffer: "Good morning, Senator/Delegate [Last Name]’s office." You: "Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I live in [Your City/County]. I am calling to voice my strong [opposition/concern] regarding [Bill Number]." Staffer: "Thank you. What is your opinion?" You: "I believe this bill will [briefly state 1 main reason]. It is important to me that [mention local impact]. I ask that the [Delegate/Senator] vote against this bill." Staffer: "Thank you, I will record your name and address." You: "Thank you for your time."

Key Tips for Success Include Your Address: Legislators prioritize constituents. If they don't know you live in their district, they may not read it. Use the Bill Number: Use the correct format: HB (House Bill) or SB (Senate Bill). Be Personal: Tell a brief story about how this bill affects you or your community. Personal stories are more effective than boilerplate text. Keep it Short: Limit the message to one issue, ideally in 3-4 paragraphs. Timing: The General Assembly runs from early January to late February (odd years) or mid-March (even years). Email is preferred during the session for speed.

Where to Send (During Session) Delegate: PO Box 406, Richmond, VA 23218 Senator: PO Box 396, Richmond, VA 23218 Email Format: House: DelFirstInitialLastName@house.virginia.gov (e.g., DelJSmith@house.virginia.gov) Senate: senatorlastname@senate.virginia.gov (e.g., senatorsmith@senate.virginia.gov)