CONGRESSMAN Jared Polis 2nd DISTRICT OF COLORADO

An essential part of Congressman Polis job is to assist Coloradans from getting the help or information they need from federal agencies. Although a Member of Congress cannot override the decisions made by a federal agency, Congressman Polis can often intervene on a person's behalf to answer questions, find solutions, or just cut through the red tape.

Below you will find a information on the various federal agencies that our office can help you with, answers to frequently asked questions, and how to open a case on your behalf.

Regardless of which agency you need help with, a completed privacy authorization form is required to comply with the provisions of the Privacy Act. Please complete the form and then fax or mail it to the Boulder office.

What Can Congressman Polis' Office Do?

Constituents will sometimes ask for help expediting their applications for services or benefits. While our office is able to obtain information regarding the status of a constituent's application or claim, we cannot order an agency to move one person's application ahead of others who have been waiting. However, if an emergency situation develops, our staff will communicate the circumstances to the agency and request appropriate action.

Occasionally, constituents will request that Members of Congress overturn a decision made by a federal agency. Congressman Polis would be happy to assist constituents by forwarding information to the appropriate sources for consideration during the adjudication process. However, a Congressional office does not have the authority to instruct a federal agency to approve or deny an application. The claim/case will be decided on its own merits and according to applicable law.

Process: Who to Contact and What You Need

Congressman Polis' staff needs a signed letter or privacy authorization form from you, giving permission to look into your case. Due to the Privacy Act of 1974, no inquiries can be made without such written consent. As such, an e-mail will not suffice as a release. A written signature must be given.

Download and fill out the privacy authorization form and send it to the Boulder office or send a signed letter that includes the following information:

Full Name
Address
Daytime Telephone
Number
Evening Telephone Number
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
VA Claim Number or Alien Resident Number (if applicable)
Complete description of the problem or question
A sentence asking Congressman Polis to assist you with your concern.

In order for Congressman Polis to help you must be a resident of Colorado's 2nd Congressional District. If you are not a resident of the 2nd District, please contact your representative in Congress, and he or she will be able to help you.

On what issue can we help?