You're the lobbyist. All you need is some basic information to get started and the passion to get involved.
1. Who is your Representative? Who are your Senators?
No need to ask embarrassing questions .. Impress your friends .. Impress yourself! Learn all about the people who represent you in Congress. Remember to take a peek at their voting records and positions BEFORE you send a message so you can better tailor the message to your audience.
To contact your senators visit http://www.senate.gov. The Senate website will identify your senators and link you to their e-mail and postal addresses.
To contact your representative visit http://www.house.gov. This website will identify your representative provide a link to his or her webpage and offer you an opportunity to send an e-mail message.
2. How does the legislative process work?
To find out more about the legislative process see http://thomas.loc.gov/home/lawsmade.toc.html for the House version http://thomas.loc.gov/home/enactment/enactlawtoc.html for the Senate version.
The Importance of Committees. Most of the work of Congress is conducted through committees. Here are some of the committees that frequently consider higher-education-related issues. If your representative or one of your senators is on one of these committees make a special effort to keep in touch.
Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee http://help.senate.gov/
House Committee on Education and Labor http://edworkforce.house.gov/
Senate Appropriations Committee http://appropriations.senate.gov/
House Appropriations Committee http://appropriations.house.gov/
Senate Judiciary Committee http://judiciary.senate.gov/
House Judiciary Committee http://www.house.gov/judiciary/
3. What are the budget/appropriations processes?
The Federal Budget: A Congressional Performance in Three Acts: How to figure out what's going on with the federal budget
Also check out this handy guide from the Congressional Research Service
4. How do I visit a Congressional Office?
We have the information you need to know to conduct your visit.
Check the Online Advocacy Center for presentations, memos and lists that will help you learn strategies and approaches for advocacy work - before, during and after your visit. Remember that you are building relationships to last!