Contacting your legislators to tell them how you feel about issues that affect your life is a good way to advocate for yourself and your rights. It’s easy to do! Just follow the easy steps below:

1. Find out who your legislators are. Each legislative district in Washington elects one Senator and two Representatives to the State Legislature. You can find out which district you live in, and the names of your three legislators by going to the Access Washington website at http://dfind.leg.wa.gov/ .  After filling out the simple form on this page, your district and your three representatives will be displayed. Clicking on each legislator’s name will display detailed information about that person, and their address in Olympia.
2. Call the Legislative Hotline.  Just dial 1-800-562-6000, or use the TTY number, 1-800-635-9993 (it's a toll-free call),  and tell the operator that you want to leave a message for your legislators.  They will send a short message from you to your representative -- you can even ask the operator to send the same message to all three of your legislators.
3. It is also very easy to contact your legislators by mail or e-mail. Write down the points you want to make in a clear, organized way – stay brief and to the point. Tell your legislator how the bill you support (or oppose) will affect your life. It is always a good idea to have someone else read your message before sending it. Having someone else read your message will ensure that your message is logical and persuasive.
4. If you want to meet your legislators personally, give them a call and make an appointment. For some good ideas on how to make the most of your meeting with your representatives, take a look at the WPAS publication, FYI – Meeting your Legislators.

To receive this document in an alternative format, such as large print or Braille, please call Washington Protection & Advocacy System (WPAS) at 1-800-562-2702.

WPAS is a member of the National Disability Rights Network
A substantial portion of the WPAS budget is federally funded.

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Washington Protection & Advocacy System
315 - Fifth Avenue South, Suite 850
Seattle, WA     98104
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