» Is This Kind of Communication Considered Lobbying?

Expressing views on a piece of legislation is lobbying, but that does not make you a lobbyist! As a citizen, you have the right to make your views known to your elected representatives. However, you should not communicate with Congress using computers or telephones supplied by your institution if it is supported by state or federal funds because that is against the law. If you need further guidance, contact your university’s government relations office.

Before meeting with Members of Congress or their staff, it is helpful to know a few basic facts about the legislator and the district to give you some idea about how to approach your conversation.

Personal meetings in either Washington, DC or home district offices are effective ways to communicate your views and establish relationships with your elected representatives.

If you don’t have the time or opportunity to set up a personal meeting, a phone call to the legislator’s office is another option.

Email is another option.