Advocate's Toolbox

Dos - Testifying Before a Committee

• Make sure of the time and hearing room (usually in the Legislative Office Building).
• Leave your name with the committee clerk to be called, if possible, stating your position with regard to the bill. If it is not possible to leave your name with the clerk, rise when the chairman calls for anyone else who wishes to testify.
• Be on time, but be patient. Members of the legislature will be heard first as a courtesy extended by the chairman. The chairman will alternate speakers who support the bill with speakers who oppose the bill.
• Know the contents of the bill thoroughly. Be absolutely sure that your backup facts and figures are accurate.
• Rise when called and seat yourself at the table set up for those who wish to testify. Begin, “Mr./Madam Chairman,” give your name and address. If you are testifying on behalf of an organization, identify the organization. Address the committee only.
• State your position for or against the issue. Summarize your recommendation first, add explanations afterward. What is your special interest? How did you arrive at your conclusion? Who will benefit if this bill passes? Who will be hurt? Be brief and to the point. Restate your recommendation, and thank the committee. Be brief, never speak more than 3 minutes.
• Speak loud enough to be heard. If possible, make a copy of your testimony available to the committee clerk. It may be the only detailed record available.
• Be confident and cooperative. Committee members are there to hear your viewpoints, not to defend their own. They have no reason to embarrass you, but they may ask questions to clarify points you make. Respond directly if you can; if you do not know the answer, say so. Do not act as if difficult questions were a personal, hostile challenge. You may not question committee members, but the chairman may permit you to question him or her to clarify facts.
• Be prepared, not repetitive. Repeat points made in previous testimony only to strengthen your position.