Inauguration Day Reminder: Connect with Your Legislators

Today, President Obama will renew his oath of office, ceremonially marking the beginning of another four-year term for new and returning legislators. It also serves as a reminder to Illinois Farm Bureau members to connect with these elected officials.

Illinois Farm Bureau's Liz Hobart said that introducing (or reintroducing) yourself to the men and women who represent you sets a baseline on which you can build a relationship and better understanding of farm-related issues.   

"With Congress and the General Assembly in session over the next several months, we need to be ready to respond quickly to be effective as an organization," said Hobart. "That starts by knowing who your legislators are and how to get hold of them. This is extremely important this year, due to the state's redistricting."

As an IFB member, you can find who your legislators are and what their direct phone numbers are by typing your zip code into IFB's Legislative Action Center. You can also contact a switchboard and ask to be transferred to your lawmaker.

• Congressional switchboard: 202-224-3121
• General Assembly switchboard: 217-782- 2000

Hobart suggests that you program these telephone numbers or e-mail addresses into your cell phone. "If it's April and you're in the field and get an action request, having the information readily available in your cell phone makes the contact very easy."

Don't like adding numbers to your phone? Ask a family member to do it for you. It makes for a great opportunity to share your commitment to farm advocacy with someone new.

As our President renews his commitment to our nation, it's also a great time for you to commit to taking action, too. Join FB ACT today. FB ACT (Farm Bureau Agricultural Contact Team) is an IFB program that keeps you in touch with farm-related legislation and regulations. Three or four times a year, FB ACT members are asked to unite and contact their legislators at the same time regarding a specific issue. Visit the FB ACT section on our website or call your county Farm Bureau for details and to join.