So you finally scrounged up the time, energy and gall to write or call your representatives about a motorcycle law or relevant legislative issue – good for you. Now how do you know if it made any difference?

Well, if the vote didn’t go your way then it’s pretty obvious, and if it did then it would seem like your comments were taken into consideration along with others. It sounds simple enough, but in reality, how often do you even know if your reps were yea or nay? There have been plenty of times when I simply heard the outcome of a bill, cursed and then moved on wondering if Oregon lawmakers had my back in the assembly or if they betrayed my dirt-lovin’ butt once again. I got pretty tired of feeling like I was in the dark so I signed up for the MegaVote newsletter at Congress.org.

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/megavote/

This handy feature lets you keep tabs on your elected officials – or anyone’s for that matter. Just type in your zip code or select your state from the drop-down menu and enter your email address. MegaVote will generate an e-mail message which includes a simple list of recent issues and then a breakdown of how your reps voted. Every item provides a link to a full vote summary, representative bio and an e-mail feature so you can share your thoughts on their actions. This has helped me get to know my legislators a little better and provides a better feel for how my state votes as a whole. My favorite option is being able to respond immediately so I can write while the emotions are fresh; nothing like a well-crafted insult to make me feel whole again. Seriously though, if we’re not holding them accountable then who is? Some of these people are jokers and others are legit. Criticism and praise lets them know we’re keeping tabs, and that’s the entire basis of our congressional system.