The Power of Your Voice in the Minnesota Legislature
Introduction
The common misconception about participating in the legislative process is that it is difficult, cumbersome, hard to follow, and often unavailable for members of the public. In fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth! Minnesotans are lucky in that they have the power and responsibility to engage directly with their state elected officials, and one of the most impactful ways to do this is by testifying before legislative committees. To see this process in action and gain practical tips, watch our video on testifying before the Minnesota Legislature.
Why Your Testimony Matters
Speaking before a legislative committee might seem scary, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, personal testimonies can significantly influence the actions legislators take. Here’s why:
- Highlighting Unheard Issues: Legislators cannot be experts on every issue. Your testimony can bring new perspectives and information that may not have been considered.
- Providing Real-Life Impact: Elected officials want to hear from their constituents. Your direct experiences and expertise provide invaluable context to the bills they are debating.
- Educating Legislators: While lobbyists provide important information, legislators rely on the insights of people directly impacted by proposed legislation. Your voice can shape their understanding and decisions.
Preparing to Testify
Preparation is key to delivering effective testimony. Our video covers this in detail, but here’s a preview of some of those steps:
- Track the Bill: Monitor the committee schedule to know when the bill you’re interested in will be discussed.
- Get on the Testifier List: Contact the committee administrator to sign up. Provide your name, the bill you’re speaking about, and whether you support or oppose it.
- Craft Your Message: Focus your remarks on the specific bill, supported by facts and your personal experience. Be concise, as you’ll likely have less than three minutes to speak.
- Practice: Rehearse your testimony multiple times. Reading aloud with background noise can help you prepare for potential distractions.
Delivering Your Testimony
When the day comes, keep these tips in mind:
- Stay Calm and Clear: Begin by addressing the chair and committee members. State your name and the organization you represent, if applicable.
- Be Concise: Stick to the time limit and avoid being repetitive. Keep your message clear and straightforward.
- Be Prepared for Questions: Legislators may ask questions for clarification. It’s okay to admit if you don’t know an answer and offer to follow up later. But this is not the time to debate.
Follow Up
Your responsibility doesn’t end when you leave the testifier table. Follow up with committee members if you promised additional information. This shows your commitment and helps build a rapport with legislators.
Conclusion
Testifying before the Minnesota legislature is a powerful way to influence public policy and ensure that your voice is heard. To learn more and see real-life examples, watch our video on testifying before legislative committees. It demystifies the legislative process and showcases that our democracy thrives on active citizen participation. Your experiences and insights are invaluable—so step up, prepare, and make an impact.