As a United States Senator for Alaska, Senator Stevens is pleased to assist Alaskans with federal matters. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees citizens the right to “petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” All Alaskans are always welcome to contact us by mail, email, phone, or by visiting one of our offices.
Federal matters are those affected by federal laws, often carried out through the work of federal agencies. Some agencies that Alaskans frequently encounter are the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Department of Defense, the Veterans Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, Medicare, the Social Security Administration, and the U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services. This is, of course, a short list and we can try to help with matters involving any federal agency.
Senator Stevens and his staff recognize that one of our most important services for Alaskans is to listen about issues and difficulties that affect our state. We are eager to help in any way we can. Please note that the Privacy Act requires that Senators to obtain a written request from anyone before acting directly on their behalf. If you plan to visit one of our offices, please come ready with a written description of your concern.
Following receipt of a written concern, a member of Senator Stevens’ staff will contact the appropriate Federal agency or agencies and notify you of any progress on the issue and/or replies back from the agencies.
Casework concerning State Agencies
The Tenth Amendment of the Bill of Rights states that areas not regulated or protected by federal law under the Constitution “are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” This means that the people of Alaska with our Governor, Legislature, and Courts, retain authority over all non-federal matters. It is most efficient to contact the appropriate state or local office if your concern or issue is with a state law or agency. We encourage you to contact the Governor’s office as well as your local legislators.
- Governor’s office: (907) 465-3500
- Legislative Information Office: (907) 269-0111 (Information about State Senators and Representatives)
As a member of the legislative branch of our government, Senator Stevens and his staff are prohibited from becoming involved in legal disputes that are pending in court. You may wish to contact the Alaska Bar Association for a list of attorneys.
- Alaska Bar Association: (907) 272-7469
Example Letter
When contacting our office, it is important that you have a written request for aid. Below is a template you may use to ensure you include all information relevent to our work on your behalf.
In addition, please complete the Privacy Act Waiver Form and include it with your letter.
Dear Senator Ted Stevens,
(In your first paragraph, state your general concern, then take a few sentences to explain pertinent background information.)
(In your second paragraph, explain what actions you have taken to resolve your concerns, and any further difficulties that arose.)
(In your concluding paragraph, clearly state any specific actions you are requesting. If you enclose copies of any documents, explain what they are. Share any necessary identification information that may be of assistance and provide your contact information.)
Provide your signature.
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