Why Provide Testimony?
It’s a great way to ADVOCATE!
– Captive Audience– Pre-Planned Oration– Direct Impact
Legislators need to be informed and you are the experts!
Writing Testimony: Pre-Writing
• Research – The issue, any prior legislation on the same topic, similar
legislation in other states– The committee members and political climate
• Consider Multiple Perspectives– Counselor, Member of a Professional Organization,
Constituent– Health Issue, Regulatory Issue, Safety Issue, Civil Rights
and/or Freedom of Speech Issue– What groups will be impacted?
Writing Testimony: Writing
- Organization
- Writing Style: Concise & Direct- Specific Ask- Personal Story
- Editing- Utilize Peers, Friends, ME!
Submitting Testimony
• Submit the day before or day of, prior to the start of the hearing
• Utilize state legislative websites for learning the process and finding email addresses– Each state has a different process but for many, you may
need to send your testimony directly to each member of the committee
– Use the proper titles, express your appreciation for their consideration, attach your testimony (preferably in pdf form).
• Do not expect a response
Attending Committee Hearings
• Arrive with enough time to troubleshoot any logistical miscalculations
• Know the process for being afforded the opportunity to speak– Example: Oregon vs. Illinois
Presenting Testimony
• Dress like a professional• Be respectful to everyone, utilize proper titles• Respect time limitations• Adapt your prepared testimony to previous
presenters, try not to be repetitive
Answering Committee Questions
• Try to identify who is asking the question• Listen carefully• Ask for clarification, re-phrasing, or to repeat
the question when need be• Do not lie; it’s okay to say, “I do not know the
answer”• When a question circumvents the core of your
argument, try to pivot the question back to your point
Post Testifying• If there is a vote at the hearing that day, send
thank you emails to those who voted in line with your testimony
• Report back to interested parties• Make sure to find the answer to any questions
you could not answer or had offered to provide additional information on
Activity: Part 1
• Write a brief statement that includes at least the following:– A statement of your position on the legislation
– A personal experience or experience of someone you know
– One fact that supports your position on the legislation
– A specific “ask”
Activity: Part 2
• Listen to statements and prepare a question:– Group 1: Write a question that is directly related
to the statement you just read.
– Group 2: Write a question that is a regulatory concern.
– Group 3: Write a question in relation to the role of ACA.
Resources
• Your ACA Team!
– Art Terrazas: [email protected] – Kelly Nickel: [email protected] – Guila Todd: [email protected] – Dillon Harp: [email protected]
• Website and Newsletter