What Can Your Elected Officials do for You?
By Robert Goodman, MSW
Each month I write about different services that are available to seniors. If you are having trouble getting those services from local, state, or federal government then there is a place you can turn to that a lot of people don’t think of: YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. Constituent casework is a major function of their offices. Their staff can refer you to appropriate agencies for help and cut through red tape when dealing with federal, state, or county agencies. They can help expedite your receipt of services, and enable you to receive services you may need. They CANNOT give legal advice. It should be noted that speaking to a legislative aide is like speaking directly to your elected official. They run the office, have the ear of their bosses, and know how to get you the help you need.
When requesting help you should provide a detailed description of the problem and describe any actions already taken to address the issue. When visiting the office or mailing information, include copies of all documentation that support your claim or may be helpful, such as letters to and from agencies as well as any forms. Your U.S. Senators require that you fill out a consent form (available on their websites) giving them permission to assist you and to share their information with other agencies.
First, we need to understand who you go to for different issues. Caseworkers in Senate and Congressional offices specialize in various areas of concern to constituents. They can best help intervene with federal agencies. They have helped retirees resolve disputes with the Social Security Administration, assisted veterans in receiving long overdue military commendations, and filed complaints on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries related to fraud and other abuses. They also address problems with Veteran’s Benefits, Immigration, passports and travel visas.
The offices of your State Legislators handle problems with state agencies. The most common issues they handle include insurance Issues, Food Stamps, Unemployment Benefits, Medicaid, problems with condominium associations, and anything else relating to state law or services.
Local government officials oversee services in your area such as street light problems, zoning, roads, libraries, and community development.
It is important to let your elected officials know how their actions affect your life. Document how local, state, and federal programs have helped you and how cuts in services may hurt you. The State Legislature is in session until April 29th. Congress is in session year round. On the state level, you can track bills and watch video broadcasts during this current Legislation by going to www.flsenate.gov or www.myfloridahouse.gov.
The staff of each Congressional or Legislative office tried to match up a person’s story or issues to the agencies that address their issues. They don’t have all the answers, but know where to find them.
Take an active role in determining government policies. Call, write or email your Senator or Representative to voice your opinion on important matters that come before them. If there is an issue that you are for or against call your elected officials and voice your opinion. They keep track of who calls. Let the Senator and Representative know how their constituents feel about a particular issue. This helps them determine how to vote on an issue.