Casework
One of the most important jobs I have is helping my constituents when they are having problems with Federal agencies. Here are a few quick questions to help you decide if I can assist you in your case:
- Do you reside in the Second Congressional District of Washington State?
- Congressional courtesy and propriety dictate that each Member of Congress has the honor of serving his or her own constituents. If you aren’t sure which district you live in, please see www.house.gov. All you need is your Zip Code + 4. You can determine your full Zip Code at www.usps.gov if you are unsure of the last four digits.
- Does your case involve a Federal agency?
- As a Federal representative, I am able to make inquiries of Federal agencies. If your case involves a state or local agency, please contact your state or local government representative for assistance. You may find your state representative at www.leg.wa.gov.
- Does the case you are concerned about involve you?
- Due to privacy laws, I must have the written consent of my constituent in order to make an official inquiry. However, I will be happy to listen to your concerns regarding a constituent who is having difficulty. Please contact my office and outline the situation so that we can contact them directly and get their written consent.
- Is your situation a legal dispute?
- As a member of the Legislative Branch, I am unable to become involved in court cases or legal issues due to the Separation of Powers as outlined in the Constitution.
- Does your situation involve a law that you would like to see changed?
- If you are advocating for a change in the law, please contact any of my offices and leave your comment. It is not necessary for you to fill out a release of information form in order to request a change in the law.
- Is your case within the agency’s normal processing time?
- It is rare that a case can be “sped up” for any reason other than extreme hardship. If you believe your situation merits faster processing, please contact my office in Bellingham or Everett prior to filling out a release of information. My staff will discuss your situation and help you determine the proper strategy.
Once you have asked yourself these questions and determined that your case is something I can assist you with, please feel free to download and print a release of information form. The form may then be mailed or faxed to either my Everett or Bellingham district office. My staff will then contact you to confirm receipt of the release and to gather any further information that may be needed. The inquiry will begin shortly after you are contacted.
If you are still unsure whether I can assist you with your case, please contact either my Bellingham or Everett office. My staff will discuss your situation with you and work with you to determine the best course of action.
