Introduction:
· Open ORAL Testimony with: “Good morning/afternoon Chairman Latta and members of the committee. Open WRITTEN Testimony with “Chairman Latta and members of the committee”. My name is (your name) ( add “and I represent (name of organization)” if you are representing a group). I appreciate the opportunity to testify before you (or “present my written testimony to you”) as a proponent of House Bill 207.”
Background and personal:
· Determine if your Representative is on the House Criminal Justice Committee; if so, recognize him or her by name, and mention your district.
· Brief background of your interest in the bill.
· Why you personally support HB-207.
· Briefly mention if you or a family member have been in a crash that resulted from a right-of-way, assured clear distance ahead, or mark lane violation.
Statistics:
· Mention any statistics (particularly those taken from the BMW information we distributed) to show the need for HB-207 and mention how HB-207 would benefit your district.
Reinforcement:
· Emphasize anything you think the committee should know about your involvement in promoting this bill. For example: “I have spoken before a number of groups on the importance of House Bill 207 because it applies to and benefits all roadway users.”
Conclusion:
· Anything you can think of that will add impact to your testimony.
· Conclude with: “Chairman Latta and members of the committee, I ask that you support House Bill 207. I appreciate the opportunity to testify ( or “present this written testimony.” End with “Thank you” followed by your FULL name and address) this afternoon and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.”
This is only a suggested format. If you have something that works better or you are more comfortable with, that’s fine. The key points to remember when presenting ORAL testimony are:
· Be short - target for 3 minutes; no more than 5 minutes
· Be sincere - make it personal and use relevant statistics
· Be seated
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