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I have often felt inspired to let my legislators know how I felt about something, but have not often done anything about my "inspiration". What's been holding me back? Well, to be honest, I don't always know who to contact, or what the legislative process is. I hate to look ignorant - even if I am. So, to help myself out, I've created this legislative "primer." I hope someone else finds it useful too. For a quick overview of the legislative process in Maine, check out a document called, "Maine's Path of Legislation." This provides a clear, concise version of the legislative process. If you want the fine points, a more detailed version is also available. Now that you, or I, have some knowledge as to what we're talking about, how about finding your State Representative, or Senator. Got any idea what District you're in? Neither do I, and I sometimes forget even the name of my elected officials. Fortunately, the State of Maine can come to your rescue with a great feature of the legislative website. This feature will find your Representative, or Senator, for you. Take a look at http://janus.state.me.us/house/townlist.htm, you only have to know what town you live in. If you want to find your US Representative, you can get information at: http://www.house.gov/writerep/ To Find your US Senator, go to: http://www.senate.gov/ and use pull down menu in the center of the page. I hope you have hours of enjoyment contacting your elected officials and wandering about in legislative cyberspace. Norm |