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Weekly Columns

As a U.S. Senator, I wear several different hats. Most people are familiar with the work I do in Washington, D.C., making sure your voice is heard on national issues such as the budget, education, taxes, and policies that affect us all. However, many are not familiar with an equally important and valuable aspect of a Senate office - constituent service. 

Helping Arkansans is one of my most important duties as a Senator. My office receives calls, letters and emails every day from constituents needing help with federal government agencies. These include problems with the Veterans Administration, immigration, Social Security, Medicare and much more. My staff works diligently in seven field offices around the state to meet the needs of Arkansans, acting as a liaison to help navigate the often confusing federal agencies. 

This aspect of my job has a very practical purpose. By knowing the problems you have with federal agencies, I gain a better understanding of where we can make improvements in these programs and help make sure that your tax dollars are being put to good use. 

In 2012 alone, my staff and I helped 2,775 Arkansas families with matters involving the federal government. Sometimes this help involves direct intervention in a problem, and in other cases, it involves providing information. Regardless of the situation, we are always pleased to try to help. If it is not something that is within my power to inquire about, my staff and I try to connect you with the right office that can be of assistance. 

While I cannot override the decisions made by a federal agency, I can often intervene to answer questions, find solutions, or just cut through the red tape.  

I encourage you to contact one of my offices in the state if you need to discuss a problem. We will be happy to send you an authorization form which is the first step in starting on a case, or you can find the form on my website at: www.boozman.senate.gov, in the section called “Help with an Agency”. 

I look forward to hearing from you.