How to write your legislator

How to write your legislator

Writing a hand-written letter to your legislator can be one of the most effective ways to communicate a problem or your position on an issue to a legislator.
Consumers can mail a letter to their state representative’s attention by using this address:

The Honorable (fill in the name of your state representative)
77 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43215-6111

Consumers can mail a letter to their state senator’s attention by using this address:

The Honorable (fill in the name of your state senator)
Statehouse, Senate Building
Columbus, OH 43215

To write a letter to your U.S. Representative or U.S. Senators visit our national elected officials page.

Tips for writing an effective letter to your legislators

  1. Include your contact information in the letter:

    Legislators should respond to your letter with their position or thoughts on the issue you write about. Be sure to include your full name, address, e-mail and phone number in the letter so they can respond to you.

  2. Keep the letter short and sweet, but make sure to include the essentials:

    • Who you are (name and occupation, if relevant);

    • Why you are writing (if you know the number of the bill, you should include it. If not, make sure you state what issue you are writing about and your position on the issue); and

    • What you would like the legislator to do (i.e. vote for or against the bill).

  3. Send a letter to all relevant legislators

Writing the initial letter is always the hardest. Once you have one written, make sure to write the same/similar letter to your each of your relevant state legislators and, if appropriate, national elected officials, as well. If you need help figuring out who your elected officials are visit the OCC's Action Page or call the OCC if you need assistance at 614-466-8574.