Many constituents contact me concerning problems with their Local, State, and Federal Governments.  Although I want to help as many people as possible, the U.S. Constitution limits my authority to matters dealing strictly with Federal Executive and Legislative Branch matters.  Therefore, I may not enter into a matter of State or Local government policy, aid in disputes between with private entities or individuals, or enter into a matter of the Judicial Branch.  Click here for State and Local Government Information.

If you are experiencing difficulties with a Federal Agency, there are several things I will need in order to provide assistance.  The best thing to do is write a letter to me explaining the problem and outlining the outcome you wish.  Federal agencies require that I have a written and signed letter when intervening on a constituent's behalf.  This is required under the provisions of the Privacy Act of 1974.  This letter must be signed by the person directly affected unless it is a minor or a third party has a notarized Power of Attorney.  At the bottom of this page you will find an example of a letter which acts as a Privacy Act release form.  Make sure to include your Name, Address, Phone Number and any identification number that the agency is using regarding your case (i.e.. Social Security Number, Veterans Administration Case Number, Immigration and Naturalization Service Receipt Number, etc.)

E-mail has become a great way to communicate.  Unfortunately, due to the extremely high volume of e-mail I receive, it is best that you fax, mail, or drop off your letter at the local district or joint delegation office nearest you.  My staff is trained and experienced in dealing with these matters and will do everything possible to assist you.  Please contact the office nearest you to inquire as to what help may be available.  Click here to see a listing of those offices.

Once I receive your written letter, I will get to work as soon as possible to resolve the problem.  The normal time frame for a response is approximately thirty days.  This varies depending on the complexity of the problem and the agency.