Throughout this script, give the legislator time to respond. It’s better to use this script as a guide rather than reading it verbatim.
If someone picks up
Hello, may I speak with [Representative/Senator] [Their Last Name] please?
If the Legislator is available
(Once they’re on the phone)
Hi, my name is [Your First and Last Name] and I’m a constituent of yours from [Your Town or City]. Do you have a moment to chat?
I work as a [Your Job] for the State of Vermont. I’ve worked for the State for [Your Years of Service].
I’m really concerned about these proposals in the Legislature that would weaken the retirement system.
[Here refer to the talking points sheet, and include some of them— in own your words.]
So I’m really hoping that you’ll oppose those proposed changes. Do you have any feelings about where you stand on this issue?
(Write down what they say, and when the call is over, send it along to tabdelnour@vsea.org)
Anyway, thank you so much for your time. Have good [day/night].
If the Legislator is unavailable
I’m a constituent of [his/hers/theirs] Would you please have them give me a call back? My number is:
[Your number]
Thanks so much. Have a good night.
If you get voicemail/an answering machine
Hi, [Representative/Senator] [Their Last Name]. My name is [Your First and Last Name] and I’m a constituent of yours from [Your Town or City]. It’s [the time and day of the week of your call]. I’m really concerned about these proposals in the Legislature that would weaken the retirement system, and I’m hoping you’ll oppose them.
I’d love to chat quickly about this issue. Please give me a call back at [Your Number]. Thank you so much. Bye-bye.