Checklist: Communicating with Government Officials

• Familiarize yourself with Congressional staff roles.
• Review the legislative process.
• Identify key government officials.
• Prepare an information kit about the coalition.
•  Write letters to key legislators and other influential public officials.
• Arrange for a meeting with key public officials in Washington, the state capital or district office(s). Review tips on meeting with government officials prior to your meeting.
• Prepare issue papers and handout materials for legislative meetings.
• Write letters and/or make phone calls to key congressional staff on important issues.
• Contact candidates about their views on public transportation. Provide them with information on your views.
• Consider hosting a "Meet the Candidate" Night event.
• Conduct a voter registration drive.
• Sponsor a tour of public transportation facilities.
• Sponsor or participate in a Town Hall meeting or a conference on public transportation.