Legislative testimony is a powerful method that can educate policymakers and legislators about the impact, however negative or positive, a particular piece of testimony may have on consumers, constituents and underserved individuals. This testimony must be professional and clearly communicated to assist your organization achieve the results you are looking for.
Preparing for a 3 to 5 minute testimony that effectively communicates your message is highly important and delivering from a personal experience perspective can have the highest impact. Your testimony will be submitted to state legislators and will have to be typed to ensure its legibility. It’s also vital it be on one side of the paper and double spaced with text large enough to read with ease.
Points to take note of include:
• Identify yourself and the organization you represent.
• Answer only those questions that you can answer correctly, and answer as clearly and succinctly as you can. Rehearse your testimony!
• Bring enough copies of your prepared statement for the entire committee.
• Rehearse your testimony!
• Thank the committee for the opportunity to speak.
