o Identify yourself, your organization and cause. (e.g. As your constituent and an ovarian cancer survivor, I am writing to ask you to co-sponsor Johanna’s Law, important legislation aimed at improving early detection of gynecologic cancers). Include the title and sponsors of the legislation in the first or second paragraph of the letter.

o Include supporting data/information. Include facts and/or statistics that explain why the bill is needed and what benefit(s) it can provide. Mention any relevant experience you, a family member or friend has had. Also, note key organizations that have expressed support for the bill. (For groups supporting Johanna’s Law, click here.)

o Restate request for legislator’s support. In your closing paragraph, thank the legislator for considering your request and restate your request/hope that he/she will co-sponsor the legislation.

o Include contact information with your letter. To generate a response and confirm you are a constituent of the legislator receiving the letter, include your name, complete address with zip code, and telephone. Include an email address, too, if you have one.

o Use gender neutral terms in letters to House Members. Avoid the terms "Congressman" or "Congresswoman." Instead use the gender neutral term, "Dear Representative."

Click here for a sample letter re: Johanna’s Law.