Hill Basics: Lobbying

Preparing for the Visit

• Make an appointment to visit your member of Congress when they are home on long weekends or during congressional recesses. Congress typically convenes in early January and adjourns in early October. Dates vary, but recesses generally take place around the following times: President's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, the month of August, and Labor Day. Be persistent-you may need to make a number of calls to arrange the meeting.

• Make clear which issue(s) you want to discuss (no more than three).

• Gather information. Learn about your legislators' records on ANA issues. Become familiar with the opposition's views and arguments on the issues to help you answer questions.

• Prepare materials to leave with the legislator or staff such as copies of relevant ANA position papers, and a memo or fact sheet summarizing your main concerns.

• Work in coalition to underscore the broad appeal of your position. Agree on specific talking points and lobbying goals and designate a lead spokesperson for the meeting.

• Confirm the appointment the morning of or day before the meeting. Arrive on time.

During the Visit

• Identify yourself as a member of your C/SNA with a pin or name tag.

• Introduce yourself and start on a positive note. If s/he recently voted in support of an ANA issue, thank her/him.

• Clearly state the position of your C/SNA, ANA, or the coalition you are representing.

• Explain your position with facts, but also use personal stories when possible. Let the legislator understand the personal ramifications or benefits resulting from their actions.

• If you don't understand something, ask for an explanation.

• Ask the legislator or staff to clarify what their position is on the issue.

• Ask the legislator to take some specific actions such as sponsoring a bill, or voting for or against a pending measure.

• If you don't know the answer to a question, say so, but offer to get an answer.

• Thank the legislator and staff as you leave.

After the Visit

• Write or call legislators and staff to thank them for their time. Remind them of anything they may have agreed to do and send additional information.

• Share the results of your meetings with your C/SNA and ANA Government Affairs staff. Share insights you have gained about legislators' concerns and ask others to lobby.

• Find out when the legislators will be in your home district hosting town hall meetings or forums and organize a group to attend.

• Maintain Communication with legislators and their staff through letters, phone calls and visits.