Newsletter: January 2011
Federal Legislative Update
by John Hershberger
A whirlwind of legislative action during the Lame Duck session by our Congressional Representatives and Senators appears to be leading to a new and politically interesting year for 2011. Our newly elected officials will be installed January 5th as the 112th Congress convenes, and... let us hope, our legislators will achieve accord and wisdom in their service of the American people.
Locally, we have a new rep in the Legislative Affairs shop; me! I'm John Hershberger, a retired Naval Aviator. I have become a MOAA Life Member after seeing the good results and effectiveness of MOAA. I told my predecessor, Dave Casteel, I'd be glad to assist him since I was already active trying to urge our legislators to support the military. The next thing I knew, I got his job! (Smile!)
It is vital we contact our elected officials and let them know our views as various subjects come up. This helps Congress understand the will of the people they represent and the majority opinion. But what are the most effective ways to inform them? Various sources, and experience, suggest these effective contact methods, in descending order:
1. a personal visit,
2. a letter,
3. a phone call, and
4. an email.
Although it's listed last, note the MOAA member email has a distinct advantage, especially when we utilize the MOAA Web Base, http://www.moaa.org. For example, in late 2009, we generated over 60,000 emails to congress preventing TRICARE funding cuts. Our MOAA web base has the issues, the addresses and the emails. It just needs you. Then, our officers follow up with our legislators, backed by the thousands of emails we sent.
If you choose to make a personal visit, it's best to call for an appointment. The local offices are convenient. Both of our Senators Cantwell and Murray, have their offices in the Marshall House on Officers Row. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler's office is the second floor (elevator available) of the O.O. Howard House, one block South of the Officers Row traffic circle. See our previous page for local addresses and telephone numbers One can walk in, as well, and still be able to leave a brief opinion or comment with the receptionist. Realize it's best to talk with a staffer. Expect only 5 to 10 minutes and be cordial. Be sure to thank them for the opportunity to discuss your important issue. Send a "Thank You" note to the person by name when you get home. Next time, ask for them. There's more at "How to Effectively Lobby an Elected Official" or http://tinyurl.com/27tmofs
Feel free to call me at 360-573-2940 or e-mail me at hershberger6047@comcast.net if you have any question about this issue.