Read the news article excerpt below.

“Residents in southwestern Allegany County wanted their area to become part of neighboring Garrett County. Under the state constitution, the Maryland legislature must pass a law before a county's borders can be changed....” –from an article in Sunpapers, 12/2/98

• Describe what actions these Allegany residents could take to influence the government on this issue.
   
• Which of these actions would be most effective? Explain why.
   
• Include details and examples to support your answer.