all about testifying
This is where you will find links to committee schedules, useful information on how to testify, and what you need to do to protect your rights. We have a responsibility as adults to participate in our legislative process. If we don't, someone else will make decisions for us!
Use the link to the Legislative Information System (LIS) Schedule for quick links to meetings and committees. See below for schedules and more.
YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE A POLISHED SPEAKER!
Many people are nervous about public speaking. We ALL were when we first started! But here's the easy button...all you have to say is, "I agree with VCDL." In fact, unless you have something to add that hasn't been said, it's better that you DON''T make a long statement. Each side is typically given a very limited time for ALL speakers...usually 3 - 5 minutes! So just saying you are for or against a bill is perfect.
committee links
there are three ways to participate in the legislative process.
- Show up in person to testify in subcommittee/committee meetings (see below)
- Sign up to testify virtually
- Make public comments online
These options are available for MOST subcommittee meetings and SOME committee meetings. Showing up in person carries the most weight, but isn't an option for everyone, or for every meeting. The process is detailed below.
You can monitor any meeting of the House of Delegates using the link above. However, if you intend to speak, you must sign up in advance and use the link they send you. You can change your mind if you no longer wish to speak.
Time is limited for speakers, so frequently all you need to say is, "I agree with VCDL," unless you have something to add that hasn't been covered.
Instructions for senate
The process in the Senate is a little different. There will be a signup link on the committee schedule item. You must generally sign up in advance of the meeting, and there is a cutoff time. You can also use this link to leave comments.
It's good to leave comments as well as testify! Comments are sent to all committee members, and are available to the public. They are a matter of record once posted.
PARTICIPATION IS ESSENTIAL
wE GENERALLY ARE CONCERNED WITH TWO COMMITTEES AND THEIR SUBCOMMITTEES
Subcommittees are where most testimony is heard. Often, if people are allowed to speak in subcommittee, the Chair will NOT allow further comments in full committee.
Our bills are generally assigned to the House Public Safety and the Senate Courts of Justice committees. Public Safety usually assigns our bills to the Firearms Subcommittee. The Senate Courts of Justice usually hears bills in full committee.
See below for meeting schedules and locations.
links to committees
Below you will find the links to the most common committees and subcommittee that we need to follow. THERE MAY BE OTHERS, as sometimes bills get referred to other committees. We will send information as appropriate, so watch your VA-ALERTs!
house public safety committee
The House Public Safety Committee generally meets on Fridays at 8:00 a.m. in House Committee Room A-008. You can view it on the map here.
hOUSE FIREARMS SUBCOMMITTEE
The House Public Safety Firearms Subcommittee meets on Thursdays at 4:00 p.m. in House Committee Room C. You can view it on the map here.
SEnate courts of justice committee
The Senate Courts of Justice Committee meets on Mondays at 8:00 a.m. and Wednesdays 30 minutes after the Senate adjourns in Senate Room A. (Room 305)