Speaking at a committee hearing is an impactful way to directly influence legislation. If you're preparing to testify at a California legislative committee hearing through Veeto, this guide will ensure you know exactly how to prepare, what to expect, and how to confidently deliver your public comments.

Confirm the Location and Arrive Early

Most committee hearings take place in the California State Capitol building in Sacramento, but some happen in the Capitol Annex building (1021 O Street) directly across the street. Each bill's page on Veeto will display accurate information on the hearing's date, location, and time. Always confirm the exact location beforehand and again shortly before the hearing in case of last-minute changes or cancellations.

When you enter the Capitol or Annex, you'll need to pass through metal detectors. Be prepared to remove your laptop (if you bring one) from your bag, and to remove any objects from your pockets. If you're wearing a hat, you may be asked to remove it as well.

Arriving a bit early lets you clear security comfortably, find your hearing room, and settle in without stress.

Check the bill status again right before attending: Sometimes hearings get rescheduled, canceled, or moved. Double-check for last-minute updates before heading out.

What Happens During the Hearing

Here's a breakdown of a typical California committee hearing:

1. Committee Introductions:
   The committee chair officially opens the hearing once enough legislators (a quorum) are present.

2. Bill Author's Introduction:
   The legislator who authored the bill briefly introduces it and explains its purpose.

3. Primary Witnesses in Support:
   Usually, two invited witnesses deliver detailed statements supporting the bill (around two minutes each).

4. Public Comments in Support:
   After the primary witnesses, the chair invites members of the public, including Veeto advocates like you, to give brief statements supporting the bill.

5. Primary Witnesses in Opposition:
   Typically, two invited witnesses deliver detailed statements opposing the bill (also around two minutes each).

6. Public Comments in Opposition:
   After the primary witnesses, the chair invites members of the public—this is your time to shine if you are in opposition—to give brief statements opposing the bill.

Your role as a Veeto advocate will most likely fall during one of the "Public Comments" segments, so listening carefully to instructions from the committee chair will ensure you are ready when it's your time to speak.

Pro Tip: Committee hearings usually include multiple bills. The committee's daily file, available online, lists the expected order in which bills will be heard. To save time, you don't have to attend the entire hearing: If your bill is scheduled early, you may leave after it has been voted on.

Exactly How to Deliver Your Public Comment

Giving public comments during legislative committee hearings is straightforward and quick. When the committee chair announces that it's time for public comments (whether you're supporting or opposing a bill), simply line up behind the microphone as directed.

When it's your turn, clearly state these three points:

1. Your name
2. Your affiliation, city, or role (for example, "student at UCLA," "resident of Sacramento," or mention that you are speaking on behalf of a group)
3. Your stance on the bill ("support" or "oppose"), mentioning the bill's number clearly. For example "I am in respectful opposition to AB-123"

Because time is limited, you'll be asked to keep your comments to these three points only. If you try to explain your reasoning or add additional information, the chair will likely interrupt and remind you to stay within these guidelines.

Here's a quick example you can easily follow:

"Hello, my name is John Doe. I'm a student at UC Davis and I strongly support AB-123. Thank you."

That's really all you need to confidently share your viewpoint.

What Happens After Public Testimony

After all testimony—both supporting and opposing—is complete, the public comment period will close. At this point, legislators on the committee discuss the bill among themselves. They may ask questions, share concerns, debate specific points, or request clarification from the bill's author or primary witnesses. However, no additional public comments will be taken during this phase unless a legislator specifically asks a primary witness to answer a question.

Once discussion wraps up, the committee chair will call for a vote. Each committee member votes "aye," "no," or chooses to abstain, after which the chair announces whether the bill has passed or failed. If approved, the bill moves to the next step in the legislative process—usually another committee or potentially the full Assembly or Senate chamber.

Even after you've provided your comments, consider staying to watch how the legislators discuss and vote on the bill. You'll gain valuable insight into what legislators consider important, which you can leverage as you continue advocating for or against the bill going forward.

Extra Tips to Keep You Comfortable and Confident

• Dress professionally but comfortably: Business casual is the standard – aim to look neat and professional while still feeling comfortable.
• Practice your statement beforehand: A quick rehearsal will help your short comment flow smoothly and naturally when it's your turn to speak.
• Speak clearly and calmly: Be clear, composed, and respectful. If you are in opposition, try the phrase "respectful opposition."
• Pay close attention: The committee chair will announce when it's your time to line up and speak, so listen carefully for instructions to stay prepared.
• Be patient and flexible: Committee hearings often address multiple bills, and sometimes the process takes longer than anticipated. Expect some waiting time, and bring a notebook, book, or something else to remain comfortable and patient while you wait for your turn.

Reminder: You're Advocating on Behalf of Real People Through Veeto

While testifying, you're representing constituents and communities who rely on advocates from Veeto. Clearly stating your name, affiliation, and position helps lawmakers understand that their voters, and engaged individuals like you, care deeply about pending legislation.

Legislators depend on real-world insight from individuals like you, not just lobbyists, because you reflect the everyday people whose lives will be affected.

Final Thoughts: Your Advocacy Makes a Difference

Testifying at a committee hearing doesn't need to feel intimidating. It is a fundamental aspect of our democracy, and through Veeto, anyone can actively and meaningfully participate. Your thoughtful preparation and confident delivery will ensure your voice—and the voices of those you represent—is clearly heard by decision-makers.

Thank you for stepping forward to advocate. You're helping shape better legislation and stronger communities, one hearing at a time.