Contact Your Elected Officials
Contacting your members of Congress, state legislators, or other elected officials is a powerful way to make your voice heard and influence their votes on issues that matter to you.
Elected officials have a long history of supporting and passing common-sense environmental policies—a reflection of Mainers’ deep connection to the woods, waters, and wildlife we call home.
Connecting with your federal or state lawmakers is a great way to make a difference. Whether you email, call, or speak with them in person, it’s important they hear why you care about Maine’s environment.
Maine’s part-time “citizen” Legislature is especially approachable, and individual conversations can make a real difference. NRCM is always available to help you connect with your elected officials.
Tips for Contacting Your Legislator
1. Introduce yourself
Let them know where you live and what you do. Legislators want to hear directly from constituents in their district.
2. Mention the bill’s LD number and title
Visit our legislative tracking page or the Maine Legislature’s website to search for the LD number and title.
3. Describe why this bill is important to you
Personal stories resonate. Connect to your lived experience or the experience of neighbors in your community. Why does this matter to you?
4. Encourage your legislator to vote a certain way
Be clear about the action you want your lawmaker to take — either support, oppose, or amend a bill so they know where you stand and what action you want them to take.
5. Close by restating the bill’s LD number
Your closing line should restate the LD number and what action you want them to take, with a clear, simple reminder of why the bill matters to you.
6. Thank your legislator
Maine legislators do not work full-time and are motivated by doing the right thing for Maine. Be sure to thank them for their time and hard work serving your community.
Meet Your Legislators at State House Action Day
Every year, NRCM is proud to host our members and supporters for State House Action Day — a day for Maine residents to come to Augusta to speak with their legislators about important issues affecting Maine’s environment. After a briefing from NRCM’s policy experts, we accompany folks to the State House to help them connect with their legislators.
NRCM is a well-respected presence in the halls of the State House, but time and time again we hear from legislators that meeting face to face with their constituents makes a big difference. State House Action Day is a direct opportunity to meet your legislators and urge them to protect Maine’s environment. In Maine, concerned residents can have a real impact on the outcome of important legislation. Join us for a rewarding day in Augusta.