Because the end of the public comment period is fast-approaching (June 21), [b]letters should also be faxed. [/b]

These will get more attention than e-mails.

You'll find most offices have a fax number listed in the "Contact Us" portion of their websites.

www.senate.gov

www.house.gov


People should also call. Pick out a few sentences from the letter and recite them over the phone. The receptionist will need to know that this is a "U.S. Customs agency regulatory action impacting pocket knives." They will then give your name and phone number to the appropriate staffer who should call you back.

U.S. Capitol Switchboard: 202.224.3121

Some offices are more responsive than others. At the least, a dozen or more phone calls on this obscure issue would put it on the radar screen in a congressional office. The more the better.