It is crucial that state legislators hear from both subject matter experts and their constituents. Your personal story can make a difference in how a bill proceeds or is altered. The general public can share their expertise or story by testifying on bills currently going through the legislative process.
How to Provide Testimony
Submit Oral or Written Testimony:
- Determine which committee is hearing the bill. You can do so here.
- Contact the office of the Committee Chair at least one day prior to the hearing to let them know that you will be testifying in person or that you are submitting written testimony.
- A legislative aide will respond via email and ask you to submit your testimony and fill out a witness slip.
- Email a copy of the testimony to the office of the Committee Chair at least 24 hours in advance. If your state Senator or Representative is on the committee, you can also call to let them know that you will be providing testimony.
- If you cannot attend the hearing in person, you can submit written testimony. While written testimony may not be as impactful as providing in-person testimony, it is more effective than contacting the representative by phone or email and counts toward those in support or against.
When You Arrive at the Hearing:
- Give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get through security.
- Bring your state ID.
- When you arrive at the room, check in with the Chair Committee's staffer to make sure you’re on the witness list.
- Be prepared to wait while other bills and witnesses are called as you often will not know when you'll be called to testify.
