How to Frame an Effective Message

•     Use Data: “In states with mandated staffing ratios, patient outcomes improved by X%”.
•     Make it Personal and Story-Driven: “I worked a 16-hour shift last week because we had no staff. This is unsafe for patients and nurses.”
•     Offer a Solution: “Investing in nursing education will address workforce shortages and improve retention.”

📞 HOW TO CALL AND EMAIL YOUR LEGISLATORS

                        –>(Insider Advice)<–

Tips:

• Only call your own legislators. Calls from out-of-state zip codes are discarded.
• Be kind. Staffers answering phones are under heavy pressure.
• Don’t over-explain—simplicity gets your stance logged faster.

Call both state and federal offices weekly with different issues if possible.

Simple Phone Call Template:

“Hi, my name is [Name], I’m a constituent from [City, ZIP], I don’t need a response. I am in favor of [Bill or issue] OR I oppose [Bill or issue]. Thank you for your work answering the phones!”

Hello, my name is [Name], a nurse from [City/District]. I’m calling to urge [Senator/Delegate Last Name] to support [Bill #] to strengthen Maryland’s nursing workforce. This bill is crucial to addressing nurse shortages and improving patient care. Thank you

Simple Email Template:

Subject: Support HB [Bill #] – Addressing Maryland’s Nursing Shortage
Dear [Senator/Delegate Last Name],
My name is [Name], and I am a registered nurse from [District/City]. I am writing to urge you to support [Bill #], which invests in nursing education and addresses critical workforce shortages. In my role, I see firsthand the impacts of inadequate staffing on patient safety and nurse burnout. This legislation is vital to ensuring quality care across our state.
Thank you for your leadership and service.
Sincerely, [Full Name, RN, Contact Info]

Subject: Urgent: Nursing Workforce Shortage in Maryland
Dear [Legislator’s Name],
As a nurse in [District], I am writing to urge you to support [Bill Number], which addresses Maryland’s critical nursing workforce shortages. One in four hospital nursing positions is vacant, and without legislative action, Maryland will meet only 80% of its RN and LPN demand by 2035.
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how this bill can improve nurse retention and patient outcomes. Please let me know a convenient time to meet.
Thank you for your leadership.

Sincerely, [Your Name, Credentials]