HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MOVES TO ENHANCED E-DEAR COLLEAGUE SYSTEM

Washington, DC (June 24, 2008) The House is moving to a new system for the distribution of electronic Dear Colleagues. This newly-developed web-based system will allow for greater categorization and customization of electronic Dear Colleagues. Under the current system, recipients are included on a general distribution list that allows them to receive all Dear Colleagues regardless of the issue or topic. The new system allows individuals to customize their receipt of Dear Colleagues based upon issues and topics. Staff will also be able to search all Dear Colleagues by session date, issue, keyword or bill number. Paper-based Dear Colleagues will not be affected.

The new e-Dear Colleague system will also facilitate clearer, more precise subject lines. A series of 32 standardized topics were developed based upon CRS research and information from CMS databases. By utilizing and aligning DC subject lines with CMS data from Member offices, the system will be more closely aligned with issues relevant to Member offices. Under the previous system, staff often received in excess of 70 DCs per day. The new system was developed in response to Member and staff feedback. Staff input was solicited for creation of the subject list.

The new system was developed and will be hosted and maintained internally. Implementation is scheduled for the August recess and training/orientation sessions for House staff are scheduled to begin during the week of June 23rd and will continue throughout the month of July.

For more information, Contact: Kyle Anderson – Press Director
(202)225-7476 office / (202)384-3305 mobile