How do I get Involved?

🌿 IPHA Advocacy: 10 Steps to Engage State & Local Legislators

1. Know Your Facts

Before you reach out, get familiar with the science, safety, and legal status of the plant or herb you’re fighting for, such as kratom, medical cannabis, and other natural products. Use available resources such as published science and latest news to understand key issues, talking points, and any pending legislation in your state.

✅ Tip: Write down beforehand a few bullet points to keep handy on how these plants benefit public health and why regulation—not prohibition—is the answer.

2. Identify Your Legislators

Find out who represents you at the state and local levels—your state senator, representative, mayor, or city council members. Most government websites have a "find your legislator" tool based on your address. Reach out to them now, even if there isn’t a pressing issue so you can create a relationship.

🔗 Tip: Use OpenStates.org or your state legislature’s website.

3. Understand Their Priorities

Do your homework on your legislators. What issues do they care about? Are they on health, public safety, or judiciary committees? Understanding their focus helps you tailor your message.

🕵️ Tip: Read recent press releases, social media posts, or voting records.

4. Make Contact the Right Way

Start with a brief, respectful email or phone call introducing yourself as a constituent and requesting a meeting to discuss concerns about kratom or cannabis legislation.

✉️ Tip: Be clear, polite, and specific about what you want: “I’m requesting your opposition to any bill that seeks to criminalize kratom…”

5. Prepare a One-Page Leave-Behind

Create a simple handout that summarizes:

• What out what the product in question, such as kratom or medical cannabis, is and cite your sources

• Why it matters to you personally

• Scientific and legal facts

• What you want the legislator to do

📄 Tip: Contact the IPHA for help on one-pagers

6. Tell Your Story

In meetings or public comments, share your personal experience with natural plant products. Personal stories are powerful tools—they humanize the issue and stick with lawmakers more than statistics alone.

💬 Tip: Keep it short, sincere, and grounded in your real experience or that of someone you know.

7. Be Clear About the “Ask”

Always end your communication with a specific request:

• “Will you vote against any kratom ban?”

• “Will you support safe access to medical cannabis for chronic pain patients?”

📌 Tip: Lawmakers hear from many voices—make sure yours includes a clear call to action.

8. Follow Up

If you’ve had a meeting, sent materials, or made a request, follow up within a week to thank them and offer more information. Building a relationship takes time and consistency.

✉️ Tip: A quick thank-you note can go a long way in establishing credibility.

9. Build Local Coalitions

Connect with other local advocates, patients, veterans, and professionals. Attend town halls, hearings, and community events. A unified voice is harder to ignore.

🤝 Tip: Reach out to the IPHA and we can let you know if there are other advocates in your area

10. Stay Informed and Keep Showing Up

Laws can change fast. Subscribe to IPHA alerts and legislative trackers so you can act quickly when a bill is introduced or moves forward.

🔔 Tip: Even if you win one round, stay engaged—access to plant-based wellness will always need defenders.