The key to creating a more business friendly environment in Oklahoma rests in bringing the voice of the business community to the capitol. Your Chamber represents you as the "voice of business" in the halls of government, but if we are to fully accomplish our goals, the advocacy of many and the action of all are needed.

Your opinions and your voice are crucial in influencing the critical decisions of elected officials. When an important issue is being debated, even a small number of letters or phone calls can sway a legislator's determination. So when you hear that an issue important to your business is being considered out, please do not hesitate to contact your elected official(s).

The importance of personal contact cannot be overemphasized. A brief visit, letter or phone call can all be effective. Plus, expressing your views has never been easier. The Chamber has launched a new LEGISLATIVE ACTION CENTER. The Center is a one-stop location to find information on issues, find contact information for elected officials and develop an email, letter or fax on a specific issue.

Once you have identified your legislator using this guide or the Legislative Action Center, here are a few hints that will make your efforts more effective.

In All Contacts
· Before you contact your elected officials, make sure you are well informed about the issue.

· Identify your concerns by bill number, legislation title or name. (Please contact the Chamber if you need more detailed information.)

· Identify yourself by name and that you are a constituent.

· Be courteous! Threatening or insulting remarks will not help your cause.

· Be brief and to the point.

· Send a "Thank you" note after your contact.

By Email

· Email is a quick, easy way to communicate with your elected officials because email can be sent directly through the Chamber's Legislative Action Center at www.okcchamber.com.

· Once you have selected the elected official whom you wish to email, the Legislative Action Center will automatically include the appropriate salutation.

In Person
· Schedule an appointment.

· Always be prompt and courteous.

By Phone
· It is best to call the State Capitol before noon on Monday through Thursday. You can call Congress, County officials or City Hall any time during regular business hours.

· If your elected official cannot come to the telephone, leave a brief message, including your name, business, phone number, and concern(s).

By Mail
· Write on business letterhead (if possible) and include your signature and typed name.

· Address letter to "The Honorable (insert name)" with title (i.e. Dear Senator, Councilman) in the salutation.

· Provide a brief explanation of how the issue affects you. One-page letters are most effective.

· Avoid formats and phrases that give the appearance of a form letter.

· Be sure to ask your legislator to state his or her position when replying.

Key Person Network (KPN)
The Key Person Network (KPN) helps Chamber members get involved in the legislative process. The network is critical to Chamber efforts to enact business friendly laws and defeat those that are not.

The Government Relations Division tracks important issues and, when we need help from our members to influence a vote, we send an "Alert" via email or fax informing members of the issue and encouraging them to contact their elected official(s).

If you are interested in participating in the Key Person Network or have any questions about the Chamber's legislative agenda, contact Dean Schirf at 297-8933 or dschirf@okcchamber.com.

You can also sign up HERE to receive e-mail alerts.