Update on HB 2833

You are exactly right Uglydog!!! We welcome anyone that can attend the hearing tomorrow to please do so!!! The more support we show for this bill the better!!

Here are some guidlines for the hearing and testifying if you chose to do so:

When you arrive at the committee hearing, you should locate (generally at the table at the back of the room) a witness affirmation card and fill it out. If you are the designated spokesman for a particular group or organization, then designate that, otherwise, just put that you represent yourself. You should check the box stating that you are FOR the bill and that you WISH TO TESTIFY.

I would suggest that you write your comments down exactly like you wish to say them and bring 10 copies with you. Typed, double spaced comments of a single page should be just about right. If there are a lot of witnesses, we may reach a time when we will ask witnesses to simply state their name and the fact that they support the bill and in the interest of time you would like to provide written testimony and would be happy to answer any questions.

When the members quit asking questions they have heard enough and it's time to move on. We can do more damage to our own bill by talking to long than by what the opposition says.

Testimony should be short and very articulate. No more than three (3) minutes under any circumstances.

Your testimony should be very objective and explain exactly why this is a good bill. For example: "Working dogs are bred, raised and trained for extremely specialized jobs and require very special handling and treatment." If there is a good - short example of exactly how or why your dogs are treated differently, please give it.

When your name is called (the order of testimony is random) walk to the mic and state your name, who you represent and that you are in favor of the bill.
Example:
"Mr. Chairman, members, my name is ____________, I represent myself (and /or organization) and I am in favor of this bill." Then proceed with your testimony, OR SAY, "In the interest of time I have reduced my comments to writing and would like to submit them. I would be happy to answer any questions."

**The committee will meet at 8 am in E1.014. This room is in the Capitol Extension (Floor E1 in the elevator or down two flights of stairs from the level you walk in on). It's the same level as the Capitol Grill.

I would suggest that men wear a sport coat and tie or suit and that ladies wear dresses or nice suits. Image is important and we want to present ourselves as professionals.