Group tries to make it easier to contact lawmakers

Reboot Illinois, a nonpartisan digital media group, is launching an online tool that could make it easier for people to send the organization's message to local lawmakers.

The tool, called Sound Off, will be available through RebootIllinois.com. It uses a person's address to identify and help send an email to his or her state lawmakers, as well as legislative leaders and Gov. Pat Quinn.

“We are targeting the people who really control the agenda in Springfield,” said Chief Operating Officer Madeleine Doubek.

The tool features pre-written letters about a handful of topics to reflect the stances Reboot Illinois takes. For example, the group has advocated for a proposal to cut teachers' and state workers' retirement benefits vehemently opposed by union leaders.

Users can edit the letters.

Interest groups often help their members send emails to lawmakers or provide phone numbers to help rally around particular issues.

The debates over pensions and same-sex marriage last year, for example, flooded lawmakers' offices with opinions on either side.