ADVOCACY FAQ's
LEGISLATIVE PROCESS
The Massachusetts Legislature operates on a two-year cycle, known as a legislative session. For example, the current session runs from 2025–2026.
The first year of the session (2025) is typically the most active. This is when most bills are filed, assigned to committees, and scheduled for public hearings and votes.
The second year (2026) is often focused on wrapping up business, advancing bills that are still in play, and finalizing budget priorities.
Formal sessions—where major votes take place—usually end by July 31 of the second year. After that, only non-controversial matters can move forward in informal sessions.
If a bill doesn’t pass by the end of the session, it does not carry over to the next session. It must be re-filed from scratchin the following two-year cycle.
In Massachusetts, a bill must go through a structured, multi-step process before it can become law. It begins when a bill is filed and assigned to a joint legislative committee—made up of both House and Senate members. From there, the bill moves through a series of stages, including committee review, potential amendments, votes in each chamber, and, if successful, on to the governor’s desk for final approval.
While there is a standard path that most bills follow, there are also exceptions to the rules. Legislative leadership has the ability to fast-track or delay bills, reschedule hearings, or make procedural changes that affect how and when a bill moves forward.
That’s why Health Action MA closely monitors every step of the process. We stay on top of shifting timelines, committee decisions, and behind-the-scenes developments so that you have the information you need to stay engaged and act when it matters most.
Want to dive deeper into the process?
Visit our How a Bill Becomes a Law page for a full breakdown.
Track active 2025/2026 legislation, bill status, and more on our Current Bills page.
In Massachusetts, most bills are referred to a joint committee, which includes members from both the House and Senate. These committees are grouped by topic—such as Public Health, Education, or Judiciary—and are responsible for reviewing the bills assigned to them. They hold public hearings to gather input, debate the merits of legislation, and ultimately decide whether a bill should move forward, be amended, or be set aside. Joint committees are often where bills gain momentum or stall, making them a critical focus for advocacy.
If a bill is “sent to study,” it means the committee has chosen not to take immediate action on it. While this sounds like further review, in practice, it often means the bill will not advance for the remainder of the session. It’s a common way for committees to quietly sideline controversial or less prioritized legislation without issuing a firm “no.”
A favorable report is the committee’s way of saying, “We support this bill moving forward.” Once a bill receives a favorable report, it advances to the next step in the legislative process—either another committee for further review or, if it’s already progressed, a vote by the full House or Senate.
Getting a favorable report is essential to keeping a bill alive. Without it, the bill is unlikely to move forward. That’s why it’s often the first major goal in any advocacy campaign.
The Massachusetts Legislature operates using two types of sessions: formal and informal.
Formal sessions typically take place from January through July in the first year of the session, and may continue into the early months of the second year. These sessions allow for roll call votes, debate, and the advancement of controversial bills. All legislators are expected to be present, and their votes are recorded.
Informal sessions are usually held in the latter half of the second year of the session. These are limited to non-controversial matters, and any bill being considered must receive unanimous consent to pass. That means just one legislator can block a bill from moving forward.
Because of this, controversial bills must move during formal sessions, when debate and recorded votes can take place. This makes timing critical in the advocacy process—if a bill doesn’t advance before the end of the formal session, its chances of passing are significantly reduced.
Most bills in Massachusetts have only one public hearing. This hearing takes place in the first committee the bill is assigned to—usually based on its subject matter (like Public Health, Education, or Judiciary).
After that initial hearing:
The bill may move to other committees (such as Ways and Means), but those committees typically do not hold additional public hearings.
In rare cases, a bill may be reintroduced with changes and scheduled for another hearing in a future session—but not during the same legislative cycle.
Because there’s usually only one opportunity to testify, it’s important to submit your written or verbal testimony early in the process.
Health Action MA keeps track of hearing schedules and will notify you when action is needed.
An amendment is a formal change made to a bill as it moves through the legislative process. Lawmakers may propose amendments to add, remove, or revise language in the bill before it’s finalized.
Amendments can happen at several stages, including:
During committee review, when legislators may suggest changes before giving a favorable report.
On the floor of the House or Senate, when the full chamber debates and votes on the bill.
During conference committee, when House and Senate versions of a bill differ and must be reconciled.
Some amendments are technical or procedural, while others can significantly alter the meaning or impact of a bill—either improving it or introducing concerning new language.
This is why Health Action MA monitors every version of the bill as it evolves and keeps advocates informed of any proposed changes that could affect the legislation’s outcome.
Yes—and it happens more often than people realize. In Massachusetts, the annual state budget process is not just about funding. It’s also a powerful tool for passing policy changes that may not make it through the traditional bill process.
Lawmakers can introduce amendments to the budget that include the full text of a bill or parts of it. These amendments can become law if they’re included in the final budget that’s approved by the House, Senate, and Governor.
This tactic is sometimes used to:
Advance controversial bills that may not survive committee hearings or floor debates
Avoid public hearings and input that would normally be required
Push policy changes quickly, especially during time-sensitive budget negotiations
Because budget amendments can have major policy impacts—and often move quickly—Health Action MA closely monitors the budget process and alerts advocates when critical language is inserted. Staying engaged during budget season is just as important as following stand-alone bills.
If a bill fails to advance—whether by being rejected, sent to study, or simply never brought up for a vote—it “dies” at the end of the legislative session. However, it can be re-filed in the next session.
Many important laws took multiple attempts over several years to pass. That’s why it’s critical for advocates to stay engaged, continue meeting with lawmakers, and help build momentum.
There’s no limit to how many times a bill can be introduced in Massachusetts. If a bill doesn’t pass during a two-year session, it can be re-filed again in the next session—with the same language or revised based on feedback, strategy, or political shifts.
This applies to both positive and harmful bills. A good bill may take multiple sessions of advocacy to build enough support to pass—while a dangerous bill may keep coming back session after session, even if it was previously rejected.
That’s why persistence matters. Whether you’re fighting to advance strong legislation or stop harmful proposals, staying informed and engaged helps shape outcomes over time. Public pressure, ongoing advocacy, and strategic educationare key to success—especially when the same bills keep returning.
A committee redraft happens when a bill is favorably reported but rewritten—either partially or entirely—by the committee before it moves forward in the legislative process.
Sometimes the changes are minor, like updating language or clarifying intent. But other times, a redraft can significantly alter the meaning, scope, or impact of the original bill. This can include adding new provisions, removing key protections, or even combining multiple bills into one.
Redrafts are a common but critical part of the process, and it’s why advocates must track every version of a bill as it advances. Health Action MA monitors redrafts closely to flag any changes that affect families, rights, or policy outcomes—positive or negative.
A roll call vote is when each legislator’s vote is recorded individually—either as “yes,” “no,” or “present.” Unlike a voice vote (where the outcome is determined by a general vocal majority), roll call votes create a public record of how each lawmaker voted on a specific bill.
This matters because:
It allows constituents to hold legislators accountable for their decisions.
It shows whether your elected official is supporting or opposing the issues that matter to you.
It prevents lawmakers from hiding behind group decisions or vague outcomes.
Advocates often push for roll call votes—especially on controversial or high-impact legislation—because they ensure transparency and give the public clear insight into where each lawmaker stands.
Yes! In Massachusetts, citizens can file bills, but they must do so through a legislator. This is known as filing a bill “by request.”
Here’s how it works:
A resident drafts a bill idea and asks a State Representative or Senator to file it on their behalf.
The bill will appear in the public record as filed “by request,” which signals that the lawmaker is submitting it at the citizen’s request, not necessarily because they support it.
While not very common, this can be a powerful tool—especially when paired with grassroots support, public testimony, and consistent follow-up.
Health Action MA can help you understand the process, shape your language, and connect with legislators willing to consider citizen-driven ideas.
A quiet death happens when a bill doesn’t officially get voted down—but also doesn’t move forward. It simply stalls and is never acted on before the session ends.
This can happen in two common ways:
1. The bill never gets a hearing or vote.
Some bills are filed and assigned to a committee, but are never scheduled for a hearing or discussion. Without action, they quietly die at the end of the session.
2. The bill moves, but then stalls.
Other bills may pass out of one committee, but get sent to another (like Ways and Means) and never move again. Even if a bill is extended to the end of the year, that doesn’t guarantee progress—it may still be quietly shelved.
This is why Health Action MA tracks bills at every step and alerts advocates when pressure is needed to help prevent important legislation from being buried without explanation.
When a bill is marked as “extended until the end of the year,” it means the committee reviewing the bill has been granted extra time—usually until December 31 of that legislative year—to decide what to do with it.
This extension allows the committee to:
Continue reviewing the bill
Negotiate amendments or changes
Delay making a decision, often for political or strategic reasons
While an extension keeps the bill technically “alive,” it can also signal that the committee is not ready—or not willing—to move it forward right now. In some cases, extensions are used to quietly stall a bill without making a final decision, especially if there’s disagreement or controversy surrounding it.
Health Action MA tracks all extensions and works to keep advocates informed when further action is needed to prevent a bill from being delayed into inaction.
When a bill is “ordered to a third reading,” it means the bill has cleared committee review and has been brought to the floor of either the House or Senate for further consideration.
This step is important because:
It signals that the bill is getting closer to a final vote.
It may be reviewed by House or Senate Counsel to check for legal and technical accuracy.
It can still be amended or changed before the final vote.
After the third reading, the bill is eligible for a vote by the full chamber. If it passes, it will move to the other branch(House or Senate), where the process begins again. A bill must be approved in identical form by both chambers before it can go to the Governor’s desk.
For advocates, a third reading is a signal to pay close attention—the bill is advancing and may be up for a vote soon.
Co-sponsoring a bill means a legislator is publicly supporting the bill before it moves through the legislative process. It’s a way for lawmakers to signal their alignment with a bill’s goals—even before a vote happens. Co-sponsors are listed on the bill, which helps build visibility and momentum.
Voting for a bill, on the other hand, happens later, when the bill reaches the floor of the House or Senate. A legislator can vote in favor of a bill without ever having co-sponsored it—and some may co-sponsor a bill but later not vote for it, depending on amendments or political pressure.
For advocates, asking a legislator to co-sponsor a bill early shows public support and can increase the chances of the bill being taken seriously by leadership and committees. It’s one of the first strategic steps in building legislative momentum.
In Massachusetts, the transparency of legislative committee votes has been a subject of ongoing debate. Currently, the Massachusetts House of Representatives does not publicly disclose all committee votes, often only revealing the names of members who voted against a bill, along with anonymized totals of affirmative and withheld votes. This practice has led to concerns about accountability and has sparked calls for reform.
Advocacy groups like Act on Mass have been at the forefront of pushing for increased transparency. They argue that without full disclosure of committee votes, constituents remain unaware of their representatives’ positions on various issues, hindering informed civic engagement. In response to these concerns, legislative leaders have proposed reforms aimed at making committee votes more accessible to the public.
For advocates seeking greater transparency, several actions can be taken:
Support Transparency Legislation: Engage with and support bills designed to increase legislative transparency, such as those requiring the publication of committee votes and hearing schedules.
Participate in Advocacy Campaigns: Join organizations that focus on government transparency to amplify collective efforts in pushing for reform.
Communicate with Legislators: Reach out to state representatives and senators to express the importance of transparency and request their support for related initiatives.
By actively participating in these efforts, advocates can contribute to fostering a more open and accountable legislative process in Massachusetts.
Lobbyists are professionals who work to influence legislation on behalf of organizations, causes, or industries. They meet with lawmakers, track bills, propose policy solutions, and provide expert insight to help shape decisions.
But lobbying isn’t just for big corporations—nonprofits, advocacy groups, and everyday citizens can all be part of the process.
At Health Action MA, we are proud to have a dedicated lobbyist at the State House working to represent families, protect individual rights, and defend access to education and medical choice. Our lobbyist helps ensure your voice is heard by:
Monitoring legislative activity in real time
Meeting directly with legislators and staff
Delivering testimony and fact sheets
Supporting citizen-led advocacy with strategic insight
Even with a lobbyist on our side, your voice as a constituent is just as important—if not more so. Lawmakers especially listen when they hear directly from the people they represent. That’s why Health Action MA combines professional advocacy with grassroots action to create lasting impact.
In the Massachusetts Legislature, committee chairs hold a great deal of power over what happens to a bill once it’s assigned to their committee.
The chair decides:
Whether a bill gets a public hearing
When (or if) the bill will be discussed or voted on
Whether it receives a favorable report, is amended, or is sent to study
This means a bill can move quickly—or never move at all—based largely on the priorities of the chair. That’s why advocacy efforts often focus on the committee chair and vice-chair, especially in the early stages of a bill’s journey.
Building respectful relationships with committee leadership and expressing broad public interest in a bill can help bring attention and momentum to legislation that might otherwise be sidelined.
Health Action MA makes it easy—just check out our 2025/2026 Bills Page to view priority legislation, committee assignments, and real-time updates on where bills stand.
If you’re looking up a specific bill on your own, you can also use the official Massachusetts Legislature website:
Go to the Massachusetts Legislature’s Bill Search page.
Enter the bill number or keywords into the search bar and select the correct bill from the results.
Click on the bill title to open the full details.
Under “Bill History” or “Referred To,” you’ll see the assigned committee listed.
Knowing which committee a bill is assigned to is critical, because that’s where the bill will be reviewed, amended, and possibly voted on. Committee chairs have the power to schedule—or block—hearings and votes, so it’s especially helpful to know who the chair and members are.
You can find committee rosters and contact info directly on the Massachusetts Legislature’s Committees page.
Health Action MA also tracks these details for you and alerts advocates when it’s time to take action. We help you stay focused on the right lawmakers at the right time.
A suspension of the rules allows the legislature to bypass normal procedures to move a bill forward more quickly. This is often used for non-controversial bills that lawmakers agree on. It requires unanimous consent in some cases, and it’s a way to fast-track a bill through the legislative process without the usual delays.
In Massachusetts, there are no term limits for State Representatives or State Senators. This means that legislators can serve as many terms as they are elected for, as long as they continue to win re-election from their constituents.
State Representatives serve 2-year terms.
State Senators serve 4-year terms.
There is no cap on the number of terms a legislator can serve, so long as they continue to be re-elected by voters in their district.
State Representatives and State Senators both play crucial roles in the Massachusetts Legislature, but they represent different areas and serve different functions:
State Representatives
Serve in the House of Representatives (part of the lower chamber of the legislature).
Represent smaller districts within a city or town, typically serving about 40,000 residents.
Serve 2-year terms, and they are up for re-election every two years.
Focus more on issues affecting local communities and smaller districts.
State Senators
Serve in the Senate (the upper chamber of the legislature).
Represent larger districts, often covering multiple towns or cities, with about 160,000 residents in each district.
Serve 4-year terms, and they are up for re-election every four years.
Often deal with broader, regional issues affecting larger areas and constituents.
In Massachusetts, bills are presented in both the House and Senate at the same time to streamline the legislative process and ensure that both chambers have the opportunity to review and act on the bill concurrently. Here’s how it works:
Parallel Process: A bill is introduced in either the House or Senate, and the other chamber receives a copy of the bill for consideration. Both chambers work on the bill simultaneously, often holding hearings, debating, and amending it.
Faster Consideration: Presenting the bill in both chambers allows the legislature to act more efficiently by addressing the bill at the same time in both chambers, reducing the overall time it takes to pass the bill into law.
Checks and Balances: The House and Senate have different perspectives, and bills must pass through both chambers in identical form. After passing one chamber, the bill moves to the other, where it may be amended. If both chambers agree on the same version of the bill, it moves to the Governor for approval.
Introduced Simultaneously: In many cases, a bill will be filed simultaneously in both the House and the Senateto increase the chances of quicker approval and avoid any delays.
This dual process ensures that both chambers of the legislature have input and oversight on each bill, while maintaining an efficient workflow.
It can be challenging when your legislator stands firm in their position or presents bills you strongly disagree with. Here are steps you can take to continue advocating for change:
Continue Engaging Respectfully
Building a relationship with your legislator is crucial. Even if they remain firm in their stance:Maintain respectful, ongoing communication—sending emails, making phone calls, and attending town halls.
Offer new information or perspectives, such as personal stories or updated research, that may influence their views.
Engage with Their Staff
Sometimes it’s helpful to speak with the legislator’s aides or district staff. They are often the ones most in tune with the day-to-day concerns and can relay your message directly to the legislator, especially if you explain how a bill impacts you personally or your community.Increase Public Awareness
If your legislator continues to push forward bills you disagree with, consider organizing efforts to raise public awareness:Mobilize community members who share your concerns and get them to contact the legislator as well.
Use social media, write letters to the editor, or organize petition drives to draw attention to the issue and create pressure.
Look for Compromise or Alternatives
If the bill is presented but is something you find problematic, look for ways to negotiate or amend it. Engage with other like-minded groups to propose alternatives or amendments that could reduce negative impacts.Support Challengers in Elections
If your legislator continues to ignore your concerns, support candidates who align more closely with your values. Engaging in the electoral process by backing an opposing candidate during the next election can be an effective way to bring change.Build Coalitions and Partner with Advocacy Groups
Join forces with other advocacy groups or like-minded individuals who are also working on the same issue. A larger coalition can amplify your voice and increase pressure on your legislator to reconsider their position.Keep Raising Awareness Through Media
Consider writing op-eds, getting local media involved, or using social media to highlight the flaws in the proposed bills. Public pressure from constituents often encourages legislators to reconsider their stance or at least modify the proposed legislation.
Health Action MA can support you by providing resources, talking points, and strategies to continue pushing for change. Persistence and a thoughtful approach are key to effective advocacy.
CONTACTING YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS
You can easily find your State Representative and Senator by visiting the Health Action MA Legislator Lookup page at tinyurl.com/legislatorlookupma. Simply enter your address or zip code, and the tool will provide the names and contact details of your elected officials.
Understanding your legislator’s positions and voting history before reaching out is critical for a few key reasons:
Tailor Your Message
Knowing where your legislator stands on an issue allows you to personalize your message. For example, if they have supported similar bills in the past, you can reference that and show how your position aligns with their priorities.Build Credibility
Demonstrating that you’ve done your homework helps you come across as informed and respectful, which increases the likelihood that your message will be taken seriously.Increase Impact
If you understand their views and voting behavior, you can craft a more persuasive argument by addressing how the bill or issue will directly affect their constituents—or align with their past positions.Anticipate Responses
Knowing their stance allows you to prepare for potential pushback or objections and gives you the opportunity to present well-rounded, well-reasoned arguments.Make a Stronger Connection
If you’re able to engage with their positions directly, it shows that you care enough about the issue and the legislator’s role in it to engage thoughtfully.
In short, learning about your legislator’s positions ensures your outreach is targeted, effective, and more likely to result in meaningful conversation.
First, gather your talking points. These should include factual details about the issue and how it personally affects you — and, if relevant, your community. Health Action MA offers a variety of resources to help you craft your message. Focus on 2–3 points that resonate most, and practice how you want to express them clearly and confidently.
From time to time, we also send out time-sensitive action alerts with suggested call scripts targeted to specific elected officials — these are a great place to start if you’re unsure what to say.
When you call:
Introduce yourself by name and town.
State the bill(s) you’re calling to support or oppose.
Briefly explain why the issue matters to you and your community.
Offer a solution or desired action (e.g., vote no, support amendments, etc.).
Ask how the legislator stands on the issue, and whether they’d like you to follow up with additional information.
Listen respectfully and thank them or their staff for their time.
After the call, it’s helpful to send a thank-you email or letter. Include your name, phone number, and address. Reiterate your main points and clearly state the action you hope they will take.
Writing a letter or email to your legislator is a simple and effective way to advocate for the issues that matter most to you.
Start by including your full name, address, and contact information so they know you’re a constituent. Use the proper title (Senator or Representative) and address your letter respectfully. If you’re unsure who your elected officials are or where to send your message, you can find them here: tinyurl.com/legislatorlookupma
Clearly state the bill number or issue you’re writing about and explain the specific action you’re asking the legislator to take (such as supporting or opposing a bill).
To make your message more impactful, include a personal story or experience that highlights why this issue matters to you or your community. Lawmakers want to hear how policies affect real people in their district—your story helps them connect the issue to real lives.
Close your message by:
Asking for a response or their position on the issue,
Offering to provide additional information, and
Thanking them for their time and attention.
Health Action MA can provide customizable talking points and guidance to help you craft a message that’s clear, respectful, and powerful.
If you’re contacting a legislator who serves on a committee reviewing a bill—but they don’t represent your district—it’s still valuable to reach out, especially when the bill impacts you, your family, or your work.
Begin your message with your full name, town, and contact information so they know who you are and where you’re from. If you’re unsure who to contact, you can find a full list of legislators at: tinyurl.com/legislatorlookupma
When addressing your letter:
Use the correct title (Senator or Representative).
Politely acknowledge that you are not a constituent, but that you are reaching out because of your direct interest or experience with the issue being considered by their committee.
Clearly state the bill number or topic, and what action you are asking them to take—such as opposing or supporting the bill, or amending it.
To strengthen your message:
Include a brief personal story or explanation of how the issue affects you, your profession, or your community.
Emphasize that your perspective brings valuable insight to the broader impact of the legislation beyond a single district.
End by:
Thanking them for their work on the committee,
Offering to provide more information, and
Asking them to consider your input during the committee’s decision-making process.
Health Action MA is available to help you develop talking points and sample messages that can be customized to fit your unique story.
Yes, contacting the committee where the bill is sitting is one of the most effective ways to advocate for or against a bill.
Here’s why it matters:
The committee members are the decision-makers for the bill at its early stage. They are the ones who will review the bill, hold hearings, and decide whether the bill moves forward.
Contacting the committee helps ensure your voice is heard at the most critical point in the process, before a bill gets voted on by the full House or Senate.
Your input can shape the discussion during hearings and committee deliberations, as committee members often consider constituent feedback when deciding how to vote on a bill.
When you contact the committee:
Make sure to personalize your message, explain your stance on the bill (whether you support or oppose it), and share how the bill will impact you or your community.
You can reach out to all committee members, or focus on the committee chair and members who represent your district, as they may be more likely to relate to your concerns.
Health Action MA provides alerts and tools to help you contact the committee members efficiently, making it easier to advocate effectively.
There are several effective ways to contact your State Representative and State Senator to share your position on a bill or express your concerns:
Email
Find the official email addresses of your State Representative and Senator on their personal or official websites or through the Massachusetts Legislature website. Emails allow you to write a detailed message and include supporting documents or links.Phone Call
Call their office directly, either at the State House or in their district office. Leave a brief message with the office staff, or ask to speak directly with the legislator or their aide if available. Phone calls can be more personal and direct, and they allow you to speak with staff members who track constituent concerns.Social Media
Many legislators are active on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. You can tag them in a post, send a direct message, or comment on their posts to express your views. Social media is a great way to engage publicly and interact in real time.Letters and Mail
Send a traditional letter to their State House or district office. This can be a more formal way to express your thoughts and may be taken more seriously. Include your full name, address, and contact information to ensure they know you are a constituent.In-Person Meeting
Schedule a meeting with your legislator, either in their district office or at the State House. Health Action MA can assist you in setting up meetings or preparing talking points to ensure your meeting is impactful.
Health Action MA is here to guide you in crafting your message and ensuring your voice is heard effectively. Whether it’s through email, phone, social media, or a face-to-face meeting, your advocacy matters.
Contacting the Committee
A committee is a group of legislators responsible for reviewing, amending, and deciding on a bill.
When contacting the committee, you are addressing the group as a whole.
Typically done through written testimony or official channels such as emails or meeting alerts.
Your goal is to influence the collective decision of the committee.
Contacting Legislators on the Committee
These are individual members who will hear, discuss, and vote on the bill.
Contacting individual committee members is more personal and direct.
This allows you to build relationships with those directly responsible for moving the bill forward.
It can be more impactful if you are targeting members who represent you within the committee.
MEETING WITH YOUR LEGISLATORS
Meeting with your own State Representative or Senator—and building an ongoing relationship—is one of the most powerful steps you can take as an advocate. Lawmakers want to hear from their constituents—the people who live in their district and have the power to vote them in or out.
To get started, call or email to request a meeting. You can meet:
At the State House in Boston
In their district office
Or even by Zoom or phone
The meeting may be with the legislator directly, or with a key member of their staff—such as a legislative aide or district director—who plays an important role in shaping their policy priorities and reporting constituent feedback.
Building a relationship takes time. Start by finding common ground—for example, supporting a bill they’ve filed—and keep the tone respectful and constructive.
Health Action MA is committed to equipping you for success. We’ll help you:
Draft talking points
Prepare an agenda
Follow up after the meeting
Build confidence for a meaningful conversation
Find your legislators here: tinyurl.com/legislatorlookupma
Sometimes, effective advocacy means going beyond your own State Representative or Senator. If a legislator sits on a committee where a bill you care about will be heard, it can be incredibly valuable to schedule a meeting with them—even if you don’t live in their district.
Meeting with key decision-makers is a great way to:
Share your perspective before a committee vote
Help shape their understanding of the issue
Build relationships with influential lawmakers who move bills forward
Health Action MA is here to help you plan and feel confident every step of the way. Our team can assist with:
Drafting talking points
Setting clear meeting goals
Preparing for questions
Following up effectively
Don’t let nerves stop you—these meetings can be informative, respectful, and productive, and they make a real difference in how policy decisions are made.
Find legislators and committee members here: tinyurl.com/legislatorlookupma
Before your meeting, take time to research the legislator you’re meeting with. Learn about their public positions, committee assignments, and any bills they’ve sponsored—especially if they relate to the issue you’re advocating for or against.
Next, prepare a brief script or checklist with your key points. This should include:
The bill number and title
What the bill does
Why it matters to you
What action you’re asking the legislator to take
Having your thoughts organized will help you stay on track, make the most of your time, and ensure you communicate your message clearly and confidently.
Be sure to check out the Health Action MA resources for a deeper dive into the issues, access to data, printable handouts, and more.
Need personalized support? You can also connect with a Bill Coach—a trained member of our team who can help you prepare for your meeting, review talking points, and answer any last-minute questions.
Visit our Resources Page to explore tools that will help you feel confident and well-informed when meeting with legislators.
Once your meeting begins, remember that your primary goal is to persuade the legislator to take action—such as co-sponsoring a positive bill or committing to oppose harmful legislation.
Use a combination of:
Personal stories
Factual information
And local impact—especially how the issue affects families and children in their district.
Stay focused on the issue, be flexible in your conversation, and take notes. Allow questions, but only answer if you’re confident in your response. If not, let them know you’ll follow up with accurate information—that’s both professional and effective.
Health Action MA can help you prepare by offering data sheets and issue briefs you can bring into your meeting.
Visit our Resources Page to download helpful materials for your next visit with a policymaker.
After your meeting, take a few minutes to write down any questions, concerns, or comments the legislator shared. These notes will help you follow up more effectively.
Be sure to send a thank-you email or note that:
Reiterates your core message
Reminds them of any commitments they made
Includes any materials or answers you promised to send
Expresses appreciation for their time and attention
Don’t forget to let Health Action MA know how your meeting went—your feedback helps us track engagement and strengthen future outreach. And be sure to encourage friends and fellow advocates to do the same.
Give yourself credit—you just advocated for yourself, your family, and your community. That’s something to be proud of.
Yes, a legislator can refuse to meet with you. However, it is uncommon for a legislator to completely decline a meeting, especially if you’re a constituent. Legislators are generally open to meeting with constituents to hear their concerns and discuss issues that matter to their district.
If a legislator refuses to meet with you, here are a few things to consider:
Timing: Legislators have busy schedules, especially during legislative sessions. They may not be able to meet immediately but might offer alternative options such as a phone call or virtual meeting.
Staff Engagement: If the legislator is unavailable, their staff (such as a district aide or legislative assistant) is often the next best point of contact. They can relay your concerns to the legislator.
Follow-Up: If your request for a meeting is declined, consider following up with a polite email or phone callasking for a future meeting or alternative way to engage.
Town Halls or Open Hours: Many legislators hold town halls or open office hours to meet with constituents. These events are a great opportunity to engage with your legislator in a public setting, ask questions, and express your concerns.
Remember, persistent and respectful communication is key to building a relationship with your legislator, even if an initial meeting is not possible.
BILL HEARINGS
A bill hearing is a public meeting held by a legislative committee to review and gather input on a proposed bill. It’s the only official opportunity for the public to speak directly to lawmakers about why they support or oppose legislation.
At the hearing, the committee:
Listens to verbal testimony from the public, experts, and stakeholders
Reviews written testimony submitted in advance
Asks questions or takes notes for further discussion
Decides whether to move the bill forward, amend it, or let it stall
The hearing process helps lawmakers understand how the bill might impact real people and communities.
Because this is your chance to influence the process while it still matters.
Most bills get only one hearing—and decisions made at the committee level often determine whether the bill goes any further. Showing up or submitting testimony helps:
Shape how lawmakers view the issue
Add real stories and human impact to the conversation
Show that people are paying attention and engaged
Influence the bill’s momentum or changes before it’s too late
Even if you’re not comfortable speaking, your presence matters. And if you submit written testimony, your voice becomes part of the official public record.
Health Action MA is here to help you prepare, show up, and be heard.
Both written and in-person testimony are effective—and each has its strengths. The best choice often depends on your availability, comfort level, and the hearing format.
In-Person (or Virtual Live) Testimony
Allows lawmakers to see and hear your voice, emotion, and conviction firsthand
Can be more memorable, especially if your story is powerful or unique
Demonstrates a higher level of engagement and often leaves a stronger impression
Written Testimony
Ensures your position is on the official record, even if you can’t attend
Allows you to be more detailed and thoughtful
Can be shared with multiple committees if the bill moves forward
Most effective? Do both, if possible.
Submit your written testimony for the record, and give a short version live (in person or via Zoom). If you can only choose one, go with the format that lets you deliver your message clearly and confidently.
Health Action MA can help you prepare for either—or both—so your voice is heard where it matters most.
Health Action MA keeps you informed—you don’t have to track it all alone. We monitor bill activity and send out timely alerts when hearings are scheduled, including:
Date, time, and location (or virtual link)
Committee name and contact info
Instructions on how to submit written or oral testimony
To track hearings yourself, you can also:
Visit the Massachusetts Legislature’s Hearings & Events page.
Use the filters to search by committee, date, or bill topic.
Keep in mind that hearings are usually posted only 3–7 days in advance, so regular checking is important.
That’s why Health Action MA’s alerts are so valuable—we follow the process closely and notify you when action is needed, giving you time to prepare your testimony or show up in person.
Hearings can take place either in person at the Massachusetts State House in Boston or virtually via Zoom or livestream, depending on the committee and schedule.
To find out where a hearing is being held:
Check Health Action MA Alerts
We monitor legislative announcements and will let you know the exact location (room number or Zoom link), date, and time as soon as it’s posted.Visit the Massachusetts Legislature Hearings Page
There you can:Search by date or committee
Click on individual hearings to see details like the room number or virtual access info
Confirm whether testimony is being accepted in person, online, or both
Tip: Hearings are usually announced only 3–7 days in advance, so it’s important to check often—or rely on Health Action MA to do the tracking for you.
In Massachusetts, you can testify in several ways depending on your availability and comfort level:
In Person:
Attend the hearing at the Massachusetts State House and speak directly to the committee (typically 2–3 minutes).Virtually (via Zoom):
Some hearings offer a remote option. You must register in advance through the hearing notice link.In Writing:
Submit written testimony by email. This is a great option if you can’t attend or want to explain your position in more detail.Combination (Hybrid):
Submit written testimony and also appear briefly in person or online to summarize your key points.
Health Action MA will provide:
Testimony deadlines
Zoom registration links (when available)
Email addresses for written testimony
Templates and talking points to help you prepare
Every form of testimony matters. Whether written, virtual, or in person, your voice can shape the future of a bill.
Your testimony will be heard by the legislative committee assigned to the bill. This includes:
The committee chair, who leads the hearing
The vice chair and several House and Senate members
Legislative aides and staff, who take notes and report back to absent members
Even if a legislator isn’t present when you speak, your testimony becomes part of the official public record and may still influence how they vote. Speaking clearly, staying on message, and focusing on how the issue affects constituents are the most effective ways to make an impact.
The committee chair leads the hearing and plays a major role in how it unfolds. They are responsible for:
Setting the agenda: The chair decides which bills will be heard and in what order.
Opening and closing the hearing: They begin the hearing with remarks, set expectations, and end it once all testimony is complete.
Managing testimony: The chair determines how long each person may speak (usually 2–3 minutes), and they may ask follow-up questions—or choose not to.
Controlling the tone: The chair has the authority to maintain decorum and ensure the hearing stays respectful and on-topic.
Committee chairs also hold power outside the hearing—they can decide whether or not a bill gets a vote, whether it’s amended, or whether it quietly dies in committee.
Because of this, advocacy efforts often focus on committee chairs, especially when trying to get a bill scheduled, voted on, or stopped.
Hearings at the Massachusetts State House often run the full day, starting in the morning and continuing into the evening. Many bills are scheduled for the same hearing, and they may not be taken up in the order listed.
This means:
You may be waiting several hours before it’s your turn to testify.
Legislators may come and go throughout the day depending on their schedules.
It’s important to be flexible, bring water/snacks, and prepare to stay for a while—or submit written testimony if you can’t wait.
Health Action MA will always share the hearing start time, and if a schedule or speaking order becomes available, we’ll pass that along too.
Even if you’re not testifying, watching a legislative hearing is a great way to stay informed, learn the process, and support others who are speaking.
Here are the main ways to watch:
In Person at the State House
Anyone can attend a public hearing at the Massachusetts State House. You do not need to register if you’re just observing, and you may enter or leave quietly at any time..Livestream via the Legislature’s Website
Some hearings are broadcast live on the Massachusetts Legislature’s website. You can watch without participating.Archived Video Recordings
In some cases, hearings are recorded and available for later viewing. Health Action MA will link to these when available so you can catch up or share with others.
Watching a hearing—whether in person or online—is an easy but impactful way to stay engaged and better understand how policy is shaped in Massachusetts.
Yes! Health Action MA offers a full range of testimony support tools to help you feel prepared and confident—whether you’re speaking in person, virtually, or submitting written testimony.
Visit our Resources section to find:
Testimony-specific guides and templates
Educational materials about current bills
Talking points and data to strengthen your message
Tips for tying in your personal impact and lived experience
Whether you’re a first-time advocate or a seasoned voice at the State House, our resources are designed to help you craft clear, compelling, and personalized testimony that truly resonates with lawmakers.
No. In Massachusetts, a bill typically receives only one public hearing—and it happens when the bill is first assigned to its initial committee, usually based on its topic (e.g., Health, Education, Judiciary).
After that first hearing, if the bill advances, it may be referred to other committees, such as:
House or Senate Ways and Means
Rules or Steering and Policy
Third Reading or Budget Committees
These additional committees do not hold public hearings. Their review focuses more on fiscal impact, legal structure, or political strategy.
That’s why it’s so important to submit testimony and show up during the first hearing—it’s often your only opportunity to get your voice officially on the record.
Health Action MA tracks each step of a bill’s progress and will alert you when a hearing is scheduled so you don’t miss your chance to participate.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR VERBAL HEARING TESTIMONY
Testimony can be given in three main ways—and each one helps influence the legislative process:
In Person
You can attend the hearing at the Massachusetts State House and speak directly to the committee. You’ll usually have 2–3 minutes to share your testimony. Arrive early, check in, and wait to be called.Virtually (via Zoom)
Some hearings allow or require remote testimony. You’ll need to register in advance, and you’ll be given a Zoom link and instructions. You’ll be called on to speak when it’s your turn, just like in person.In Writing
You can submit written testimony by email, either in addition to speaking or if you’re unable to attend. Written testimony is added to the public record and is read by committee members or staff.
In some cases, you may submit written remarks and deliver a shorter summary in person or online. Health Action MA provides all the information you need—when to submit, where to send it, and how to register—for every hearing we track.
Getting ready to speak at a legislative hearing? Your voice matters, and with a little preparation, you can make a powerful impact in just a few minutes.
Here’s how to prepare strong, effective verbal testimony:
Know your time limit
Most hearings allow 2–3 minutes per person. That’s roughly 300–400 words, so keep your message focused.Start with a strong introduction
Say your name, where you live, and your position on the bill (support or oppose). Briefly share your role—parent, professional, community member, etc.Tell a personal story or share a clear impact
Real-life examples make testimony memorable. Help legislators understand how the bill affects people in their district—especially families and children.Stick to 1–2 main points
Focus on the strongest arguments or most personal reasons. You don’t need to cover every detail—clarity and emotion go a long way.End with a clear ask
Politely state what you’d like the committee to do (e.g., “I urge you to vote no on this bill” or “Please support and move this bill forward”).Practice out loud
Reading your testimony aloud helps you stay within time and speak more naturally. You can bring a printed copy or notes with you.Plan ahead for multiple bills
When preparing your testimony, it’s important to review all the bills being heard that day. Hearings are often grouped by issue, so multiple bills on the same topic may be on the agenda. Use your time strategically to address all the bills that impact you or your family—you don’t need to testify separately on each one.
Health Action MA is here to help. We offer templates, talking points, and feedback to support your testimony and build confidence—whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned advocate.
In addition to preparing your main statement, here are a few extra tips to help you feel confident and make the most of your testimony:
Bring extra copies
If you’re testifying in person, bring a few printed copies of your testimony. These can be submitted to the committee clerk or handed to staff for the official record.Be respectful and professional
Even when you feel passionately about the issue, avoid personal attacks. Speak clearly, stick to your story or facts, and keep your tone polite and firm. Respect builds credibility.Prepare for the unexpected
Legislators may ask follow-up questions—or none at all. If asked something you’re unsure about, it’s perfectly fine to say, “I’ll follow up with that information after the hearing.”Be flexible with your timing
If many people are testifying, your time may be reduced. Have a short version of your testimony (60 seconds or less) ready just in case.Don’t stress about being perfect
You don’t need to be a polished speaker. What matters most is that your message is genuine and clearly delivered.Follow up after the hearing
If a legislator showed interest, asked a question, or seemed undecided, follow up with a thank-you email and any additional materials. Health Action MA can help with crafting that message.
Your presence, your story, and your voice make a difference—whether it’s your first time or your tenth.
Preparing before a legislative hearing helps you feel confident, informed, and ready to make an impact—whether you plan to testify or just attend. Here’s what to do:
Check the hearing details
Confirm the date, time, location (or Zoom link), and list of bills being heard. Health Action MA will share these with you, but you can also double-check the Mass Legislature Hearings Page.Review the full list of bills
Hearings often cover multiple bills on the same topic. Make sure your testimony addresses all relevant bills, not just one—especially if they have similar impacts.Write and practice your testimony
Prepare a 2–3 minute statement that includes your introduction, key message, personal story or data point, and a clear ask. Practice reading it aloud so you stay within time.Register in advance (if required)
For virtual or hybrid hearings, you may need to register to speak. Health Action MA will provide links and instructions when available.Print extra copies (for in-person)
Bring a few copies of your testimony to hand in if you’re attending at the State House.Prepare emotionally and mentally
Hearings can be long and emotional. Bring water, take deep breaths, and remind yourself: you’re showing up for something that matters.
Health Action MA is here to help you every step of the way—from reviewing your message to guiding you through the logistics.
Yes, committee members can ask you questions after you give your testimony—but they aren’t required to.
If they do:
It’s usually to clarify something you said, ask about your experience, or get more detail on how the bill impacts you.
You should answer briefly and honestly—and it’s completely okay to say, “I’m not sure, but I can follow up with that information.”
Don’t feel pressured to have all the answers. Your role is to share your perspective, not to be a policy expert.
Health Action MA can help you prepare for the kinds of questions that might come up and how to respond with confidence and calm.
Following up after a hearing is a powerful part of the advocacy process—and it helps build long-term relationships with lawmakers. Here’s what to do:
Send a thank-you email
Whether you testified or just attended, it’s a good idea to thank the committee or any legislators you spoke with. Restate your position on the bill and thank them for their time and consideration.Follow up on any questions
If a legislator asked a question you couldn’t answer during the hearing, follow up by sending the correct information or resources. This builds trust and shows you’re reliable.Let Health Action MA know how it went
If you testified, observed, or had a meaningful interaction, tell us! Your feedback helps us track legislative engagement and identify where support is needed.Stay engaged
Testimony is just one step. We’ll keep you updated on the bill’s progress, next steps, and any future action needed. Watch for follow-up alerts, especially as bills move toward a vote.Feel proud of your participation
Whether you spoke, submitted written testimony, or simply showed up—you made a difference. Your voice matters, and you’ve taken an important step in shaping policy.
You don’t need to wear a suit, but your appearance should show that you take the issue seriously. We recommend business casual or neat attire—something that’s professional, comfortable, and approachable.
This could include:
Slacks or khakis
A blouse, button-down shirt, or sweater
A blazer or cardigan (optional)
Closed-toe shoes or clean, low-profile footwear
Avoid clothing with political slogans, logos, or anything that might be distracting in a formal setting.
The goal is to present yourself in a way that helps lawmakers focus on your message, while still being true to yourself. You don’t have to be fancy—you just need to be credible and respectful.
Yes, you can bring a child or support person with you to a hearing—especially if they are directly impacted by the issue or if their presence helps you feel more confident.
However, it’s important to plan ahead:
Hearings often last several hours, and there may be long periods of waiting before you’re called to speak.
If you bring a child, consider bringing quiet activities, snacks, and water to help them stay comfortable during the day.
If your child is part of your testimony, make sure to include that in your remarks—it can be a powerful statement.
A support person can help you navigate the building, hold your materials, or offer encouragement.
Just keep in mind that the setting is formal, and the hearing room must stay respectful and quiet for others who are speaking.
Health Action MA can help you plan ahead so that you—and your family—feel as prepared and supported as possible.
Sometimes, yes. Hearings that involve high-profile, controversial, or emotionally charged topics often attract members of the press, including photographers, videographers, and reporters.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
You may be photographed, filmed, or quoted if you speak during a public hearing. The room may also be livestreamed online or archived for public viewing.
If you’re uncomfortable being on camera, you can still submit written testimony or let Health Action MA know—we may be able to help coordinate alternative options.
If you’re open to speaking with the media, Health Action MA can support you with talking points, messaging guidance, or help coordinating interviews.
You are never required to speak to reporters. It’s always your choice.
Whether you want to stay private or speak out publicly, we’re here to help you feel informed and prepared either way.
Yes, verbal panel testimony is allowed at many Massachusetts legislative hearings—and it can be a powerful way to show unified support or opposition to a bill. A panel typically includes multiple individuals speaking together or consecutively within a shared time slot.
Health Action MA has successfully organized and supported panel testimony to bring forward diverse voices—parents, professionals, and community members—speaking from different angles on the same issue.
However, it’s important to know that committee chairs set the rules, and sometimes they choose to limit panel presentations to just 4 minutes total, which may be less time than individual speakers would be given separately. When that happens, your group must:
Coordinate messaging carefully
Decide who will speak
Be concise and focused to make the most of the time
Health Action MA can help you prepare an effective panel strategy, streamline talking points, and advocate for more time when possible. Whether you’re testifying alone or as part of a group, we’re here to support your voice being heard.
Yes! Health Action MA offers a full range of testimony support tools to help you feel prepared and confident—whether you’re speaking in person, virtually, or submitting written testimony.
Visit our Resources section to find:
Testimony-specific guides and templates
Educational materials about current bills
Talking points and data to strengthen your message
Tips for tying in your personal impact and lived experience
Whether you’re a first-time advocate or a seasoned voice at the State House, our resources are designed to help you craft clear, compelling, and personalized testimony that truly resonates with lawmakers.
SUBMITTING WRITTEN TESTIMONY
Written testimony is a statement submitted to a legislative committee to express your position on a bill. It becomes part of the official public record and is often read by committee members or their staff—even if you don’t speak at the hearing.
Testimony can technically be submitted at any time, but it’s most effective when submitted before or on the day of the hearing. That ensures your input is part of the committee’s review while they are actively considering the bill.
Some committees may accept written testimony after the hearing, but early submission gives your message the best chance of being read and considered.
Health Action MA will always let you know the exact deadline, submission details, and any updates. Once submitted, your testimony is shared with all relevant committee members, and may continue to inform lawmakers as the bill moves to other committees.
minutes. As a general rule, testimonies should be delivered verbally and also submitted in writing; however, if you are not comfortable delivering testimony verbally you may do so in written form.
When planning your testimony, it’s paramount to check all the bills being heard that day. Typically bills similar in issue are heard on the same day and therefore you want to ensure you are using your testimony time to voice for/against all bills that impact you and your family.
Written testimony is typically submitted by email to the committee responsible for hearing the bill. You can find this information in the official hearing notice on the Massachusetts Legislature Hearings Page.
Health Action MA will always provide the correct email address, bill number, and submission instructions in our hearing alerts.
When submitting your testimony:
Include the bill number and title in the subject line (e.g., “Written Testimony for H.1234 – Oppose”)
Attach your testimony as a PDF or Word document, or paste it in the body of the email
Include your name, town, and any relevant title or organization
Bonus tip:
In addition to sending your testimony to the committee, it’s also a great idea to send a copy to your own State Representative and Senator. This helps build relationships and shows your elected officials that this issue matters to their constituents.
Not sure who represents you? Use the Find My Legislator tool to look them up quickly.
Your written testimony should include:
Your name, town, and position on the bill (support or oppose)
A brief introduction of who you are (e.g., parent, teacher, healthcare professional)
A clear, focused message on how the bill impacts you or others
A personal story, data, or reasoning to back your stance
A specific ask, such as: “Please give this bill an unfavorable report.”
Keep it clear and respectful, and aim for 1–2 pages max unless you’re submitting on behalf of an organization or group.
Yes! Especially when submitted in volume. Lawmakers and staff often review written testimony later, particularly when time is limited in the hearing. It ensures your viewpoint is on the record, even if you can’t speak live.
Both written testimony and sending an email to oppose a bill are important advocacy tools—but they serve different purposes and reach lawmakers in different ways.
Written Testimony
Submitted to a legislative committee as part of the official record for a public hearing on a specific bill.
Shared with all committee members and often entered into the public file.
Usually includes your name, your position on the bill, and an explanation of your reasoning.
Can follow a more formal or structured format.
May be read during or after the hearing and can directly influence whether a bill advances.
Email to Oppose a Bill
Sent directly to your own State Representative or Senator, or to other key legislators.
Not part of the official public record, but still very influential—especially when legislators receive many messages from constituents.
Typically shorter and more personal.
Used to express your position, share how an issue affects you, and encourage your legislator to act accordingly.
You don’t have to choose one or the other—doing both is the most effective approach. Testimony reaches the committee, while emails build accountability with your own lawmakers.
Health Action MA provides tools and guidance for both options to make your advocacy as impactful as possible.
Yes, written testimony is still incredibly effective, even if you can’t attend the hearing in person.
Here’s why:
It becomes part of the official record—your written statement is reviewed by committee members, staff, and potentially other lawmakers as the bill moves forward.
It can be shared with other committees if the bill is referred to additional committees. Your message continues to have an impact throughout the legislative process.
You can be more detailed—written testimony allows you to take your time, explain your position thoroughly, and include supporting facts or stories that might not fit within a short oral testimony.
It shows your engagement—submitting written testimony demonstrates to lawmakers that their constituents care about the issue, even if you can’t attend in person.
Health Action MA makes it easy to submit written testimony, and we’ll help ensure that your voice is heard and has the same impact as if you were in the room.
ADVOCACY PLATFORM
The advocacy letters you send through Health Action MA’s platform absolutely make a difference. Each email is received by the legislator or their staff, who track and report on the volume and content of constituent messages. While a single message can have an impact, when large numbers of people take action together, it amplifies our collective voice and strengthens our influence.
We’ve heard session after session just how impactful these floods of advocacy have been—lawmakers take notice when their inboxes fill with messages from concerned citizens. Your participation helps us scale our advocacy, demonstrate public support or opposition to specific bills, and hold legislators accountable to the people they represent.
Our platform requests your contact information so we can accurately match you with your State Representative and Senator. Legislators require your full name, email, and address to confirm that you are a constituent—the very people they are elected to represent—and to prioritize your message accordingly.
We use your information for two key purposes:
To ensure your message is delivered to the correct lawmakers
To keep you informed on the issues that matter to you
You may opt out of updates at any time, and we will never share or sell your data. Your privacy and trust are a top priority.
It’s completely up to you! The email provided in the platform includes carefully crafted language with strong, well-researched message points that are effective in reaching legislators.
That said, we encourage you to personalize your message if you’re comfortable. Adding even a sentence or two about how the issue directly impacts you helps create a human connection and makes your message stand out. Lawmakers are more likely to remember emails that share a personal story or experience.
The more personal your message, the more powerful it can be. But rest assured, even if you send the email exactly as written, your voice is still being heard.
Sending your own email is always an option—and some advocates choose to do both: email through the platform and send a direct message separately. But there’s real value in using the platform.
When you send your message through Health Action MA’s advocacy system, you become part of a coordinated campaign. Lawmakers and their staff take note when they receive a high volume of emails about the same issue from concerned individuals across the state. It shows broad support—or opposition—for a bill and signals that voters are engaged.
You can still make your message personal by editing the email before sending. Whether it’s a few words or a full rewrite, your voice matters—and adding it to the collective outreach makes our advocacy stronger.
Unfortunately, a zip code alone isn’t enough. Most legislators require a full address to confirm that you’re a constituent—and to make sure your message reaches the correct elected official.
Because of how district lines are drawn, many zip codes overlap with multiple legislative districts. In some cases, a single zip code may be split across four or five different House or Senate districts. Without your full address, we can’t guarantee your message will go to the right lawmaker.
Providing your full address ensures your voice gets to the correct person who represents you—and helps your message carry the weight it deserves.
Thank you for taking action! Here’s how to stay connected and keep the momentum going:
Watch for campaign updates and next steps. We’ll let you know when it’s time to take further action—like submitting testimony, attending hearings, or making calls.
Make sure emails from
hello@healthactionma.orgare going to your inbox, not your junk or promotions folder, so you never miss important updates.Spread the word! Tell your friends, family, and networks about Health Action MA and our campaigns. The more voices we have, the stronger our message becomes.
At Health Action MA, we’re working to protect access to education and defend parental, religious, and disability rights—while advancing policies that support informed medical choice and healthier school foods. But we can’t do it alone. We must make it undeniable—to lawmakers, the media, and our communities—just how many people want thoughtful policies that respect medical needs, parental roles, and local voices
Follow us on all social media channels and join our Facebook group—you’ll find all the links in the header of our website.
WRITING A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Before you write your letter, research the media outlet where you plan to submit. Every newspaper, magazine, or digital news site has its own submission guidelines for letters to the editor, op-eds, and commentary.
Look for:
Word count limits (usually between 150–250 words for letters)
Submission instructions (email address, web form, etc.)
Deadlines or publication cycles
Tone and audience preferences
Familiarizing yourself with these details helps ensure your letter is accepted—and shows editors you’re serious about contributing meaningfully to the conversation.
A strong letter to the editor is clear, concise, and focused on one main idea. Before you start writing, decide what you want to say—and what action or awareness you hope to inspire.
Ask yourself:
Am I responding to a recent article or event?
Do I want to raise awareness about a specific bill, issue, or personal experience?
What is the one key message I want readers—and lawmakers—to walk away with?
Your focus should be timely, relevant, and compelling. The best letters offer a unique perspective, a call to action, or a story that makes the issue real for readers.
Once your focus is clear, you’re ready to start writing with purpose.
Crafting a strong letter to the editor requires a clear structure, a compelling voice, and a personal connection to the issue.
Here are some tips for writing a persuasive letter:
Start with a strong opening that grabs attention—especially if you’re responding to a recent article or event.
Stick to one key point and make it easy for readers to follow your message.
Share a personal story or lived experience to make the issue real and relatable.
Use accurate facts or data to back up your point—and cite sources when possible.
Offer a constructive solution, not just criticism. Suggest what could or should be done differently.
Once your letter is ready:
Double-check the submission guidelines for the outlet (word count, tone, contact info).
Be sure you’re submitting to the correct editor or email address for letters to the editor.
Include your full name, town, and contact information (many papers require this for verification, even if they don’t publish it).
A well-crafted, timely letter can influence public opinion, raise awareness, and show community support for your cause.
You’ve taken the bold step of submitting your letter—now it’s time to amplify your voice and stay engaged.
If your letter is published, celebrate! Share it with your network on social media, in email updates, or with community groups. Your story can inspire others to speak up too.
If your letter isn’t accepted, don’t be discouraged. Editors receive many submissions and space is limited.
Revisit your message: Can it be made shorter, more focused, or tailored to a different audience?
Submit to another outlet: Local or regional papers, online news platforms, or even blogs can be great alternatives.
Consider other formats: Turn your letter into a social media post, a community newsletter blurb, or testimony for a public hearing.
Remember: each time you speak up, you’re shaping the conversation—and persistence is part of effective advocacy.
