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Top Stories 31ST
ANNUAL CONVENTION! Legislation Journal
of the American Naturopathic Facts |
NATUROPATHIC LEGISLATION
Over the past 27 years we have issued many critical legislative alerts to the Naturopathic community. ANMA’s tremendous success in winning legislative support over the years is well known to many throughout the industry, and with your support, ANMA will continue to do so. It is urgent that you stay involved. If you have not already done so, now is the time for you to get acquainted with your representative(s). Your representative will be far more attentive to the way he or she cast their vote, if they know your concerns. Also at this time you should request a copy of the legislative bill so you will know critical details and sponsors. We recommend you become familiar with your representative telephone number, legislative address, and e-mail address. Be ready for quick action as this is imperative at crucial times. For a basic letter form, and other information for contacting your representative, and state legislature please read the following: The website www.statelocalgov.net will help you search for legislation in your area and will provide you with your representative's contact information. (any questions on how to navigate their website, please call Julie Morgan at 702-897-7053 or e-mail her at admin@anma.org)
TIPS ON WRITING TO YOUR REPRESENTATIVE:
1. The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a representative’s office. If you decide to write a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness of the letter. Addressing Correspondence: To a Senator.... Dear Senator (Last Name):
To a Representative... Note: When writing to the Chair of a committee it is proper to address him/her as: Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman
Purpose of your Letter: Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If the letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly, e. g. House bill: H.R. (Number), Senate bill: S. (Number). Be courteous, to the point, and include key information, using examples to support your position. Address only one issue in each letter; and if possible, keep the letter to one page. SAMPLE LETTER: The following is a guideline for a letter, email, fax or phone call to your Representative:
Date: The Honorable (Name) Re: (H.R./S Bill #) Dear (Representative): My name is (Name) and I live in (Dist #) in the State of (Name). I am writing to urge you to vote (Yes/No) on H.R./S Bill (#). This bill would ....Explain how this bill will affect your life and practice such as any of the following thoughts:
Thank you for considering a (Yes/no) vote on (Bill #). Sincerely, (or any salutation you want here) (Signature)
SAMPLE LETTER CONTINUED: The following letter is similar to the above letter, but is a little more finished :
Date: The Honorable (Name) Re: (H.R./S Bill #) Dear (Representative): My name is (Name) and I live in (Dist #) in the State of (Name). I am writing to urge you to vote No on H.R./S Bill (#). My practice involves education of my clients. Using natural therapies, including but not limited to fresh air, clean water, good diet, and exercise to attain a healthier body. I do not diagnose or treat disease and I represent the majority of practicing naturopaths. Naturopaths, Naturopathic Doctors, or Naturopathic Physicians have no business diagnosing, dispensing drugs, or performing surgeries as set out in the legislation in question. Naturopaths, Naturopathic Doctors, or Naturopathic Physicians simply don’t have the experience or education required. When diagnosing, dispensing drugs, or performing surgeries is needed clients should see those licensed and trained to do so. You owe it to the public to protect them from the group seeking this scope of practice for naturopaths. You should require those people to attend traditional medical school. I took an oath to "First do no harm" and I intend to do just that. Please do not take my right to practice away because of a few untrained want to be "doctors" that want the right to practice as equals to D.O.’s and M.D.’s. Thank you for considering a "NO" vote on (Bill #).
Sincerely, (or any salutation you want here) (Signature)
SENDING E-MAIL When addressing an e-mail to a representative, follow the same suggestions as for a printed letter. For the subject line of your e-mail, identify your message by topic or bill number. The body of your message should use this format: Your name Dear (Title) (Last Name),
SUGGESTIONS FOR A PERSONAL VISIT Meeting with a Representative for your district is a very effective way to convey a message about a specific issue of legislative matter. Below are some suggestions to consider when planning a visit to his/her office. Plan Your Visit Carefully: Be clear about what it is you want to achieve; determine in advance which Member or committee staff you need to meet with to achieve your purpose. Make an Appointment: When attempting to meet with a Representative, contact the appointment Secretary. Explain you purpose, what you wish to discuss and your relationship to the area or interests represented by the member (keep it short). Be Prompt and patient. Be Prepared: Whenever possible, bring to the meeting information and materials supporting your position. In some instances your representative may lack important details about the pros and cons of a particular matter, so it is important that you clearly present your side of the issue. Be Political: Your representative wants to represent the best interests of their district or state. Whenever possible, demonstrate the connection between what you are requesting and the interests of the Representatives constituency. If possible, describe for the Representative how you or your group can be of assistance to him/her. When it is appropriate, remember to ask for a commitment of support for your view. Be Responsive: Be prepared to answer questions or provide additional information in the event the Representative expresses interest or asks questions. Follow up the meeting with a thank-you letter that outlines the different points covered during the meeting, and send along any additional information and materials requested.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST! Don’t forget about all the people who depend on your knowledge of naturopathy to guide them. They may be interested in assisting you in preserving your "right to practice". You should encourage other family members to submit correspondence. For Additional Information Write or Call: ANMA |
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