As a bill passes through the legislature, the public has an opportunity to communicate directly to legislators on the bills that are scheduled for a public hearing.

If you strongly support or oppose a bill, the League of Women Voters of Hawaii encourages you to be an active participant in democracy by submitting testimony. This is one of the most powerful things you can do to amplify your voice and influence the lawmaking process.

This can seem like an intimidating process, but it really isn't. To guide you through it, we have assembled some essential information about the process and offer some ideas on today’s “best practices.”

You can write you testimony in a word-processing program and upload it to the website, or you can write directly in the body of the comments section.

• Begin by addressing the Chair and Committee then conclude by thanking them for the opportunity to submit testimony.

• Explain your position, support opinions with facts and include personal experiences if applicable.

• Submit your testimony on time. Most measures require testimony a minimum of 24 hours prior to the hearing