He had received three telephone calls from citizens in his district in support of the item. The message is clear-every contact from a registered voter has the potential to influence a legislator's position on an issue. The state budget comes before legislators for a decision each year. It is the most important piece of legislation affecting the University because the state budget provides UMass with annual operating support. Throughout the legislative session, legislators consider other bills that could affect the University.
Advocates help to set the agenda of their representatives.
Write, e-mail and call your Senator and Representative at budget time and throughout the year. Share your story-describe your personal connection to the University and why it's important to you. State your support for UMass and suggest some action for the legislator to take. Don't argue if a legislator disagrees with you. But be ready to restate your opinion, politely.