FDA Globalization Act of 2008 - Talking Points

Talking points are ideas, usually compiled in a short list with summaries of the main points to discuss.

In speaking with or writing to your legislators about the FDA Globalization Act of 2008, all or some of following points could be touched upon. The key to communication with legislators is to make it:

Remember, you are trying to give them information to use in making an informed decision on the issue based on their constituent's (in other words, YOUR) views.

Correct form of address

In writing to a state or US Representative, the address should be "The Honorable ________ ________". The salutation at the start of the letter is "Dear Mr. ____" or" Dear Ms. _____", as appropriate.

When writing to a state or US Senator, the address should be "The Honorable ______ ______". The salutation should be "Dear Senator _______".

If you write other officials, be sure to check the correct form of address.

In your letter, email, phone call or meeting

1. Clearly state who you are, what state or area you are from and why you are writing.
2. Then take up one or more of the talking points about the impact of the FDA Globalization Act:
   • The act is intended to "protect consumers" yet cosmetics have an excellent safety record.
   • It is unfair in that it institutes one fee for any size business, whether it has 1 employee or 1000, whether the revenue is $10,000 per year or $100,000,000
   • Costs to my business would be at least $2,000 per year, possibly considerably higher
   • It requires burdensome paperwork and reporting
   • The reporting requirements will cripple my ability to change products to fit the rapidly changing local trends (or customized products), thereby effectively negating the my edge in the marketplace
   • Implementation of the law would effectively put me, and other small businesses like mine, out of business
3. Close by stating
   • You oppose the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 (or you could state that you oppose the cosmetics section of it)
   • You ask that they vote against the FDA Globalization Act of 2008 when the time comes.

See also sample letters from the Indie Business Blog if you need more help.