Working with legislative committees

Because the real grunt work of lawmaking is done in the committee process, it is important to understand simple rules about effective interaction with committees.

If time permits, officials who come to Austin for a hearing should try to talk with committee members (or their staff members) in advance about their opinion on a bill and its impacts on the county. Decisions are often made — or majorities reached — before the committee meets.

Advance groundwork also helps avoid embarrassing surprises.

For example, if a bill is to be opposed, it is considered a worthwhile legislative courtesy to communicate with the lawmaker who is sponsoring a bill about what is objectionable in the proposal. This will allow the sponsor to work with opposing interests to develop possible compromise approaches to address the intent of the bill.

Also, if officials intend to testify on a bill that's being considered before a committee that includes their own representative or senator, it is important to let that lawmaker know in advance.

Regardless whether a bill is to be supported or opposed, sometimes an official must testify before a committee to place specific concerns on the record and to attempt to persuade members one way or another. Consider these tips:

• Have the facts and be able to document them.
• Keep the message simple. Limit oral presentation to three or four minutes.
• Talk as if in a conversation. Don't read.
• Prepare a written text when complete accuracy is essential. Bring two texts — one detailed and one abbreviated. Leave copies for each member of the committee and a few extras for the press.
• Give testimony with name, title, affiliation, creditability, bill number and position on the legislation or issue.
• Fill out testimony cards (called "witness affidavits") before the hearing. This is how the chair schedules speakers and registers the support or nonsupport of issues.
• Do not expect committee members to be present throughout the testimony. Due to heavy scheduling, some legislators are booked for action in more than one committee at a time, not to mention meetings with important local officials from back home.