Online Video Testimony

If you can’t make it to Bismarck to testify in-person, you may be able to give your input on the bill(s) that matter to you from the comfort of your own home.

Tips for Online Oral Testimony

  1. Set up your computer or use your phone in a quiet area with little to no background noise.

  2. Keep your microphone on mute until it is your turn to speak.

  3. Address the Chairman/Chairwoman and the committee members. ”Madam Chairwoman [LAST NAME] and members of the Senate/House [NAME] Committee”

  4. Thank the committee for the opportunity to speak.

  5. Introduce yourself by first and last name and state the legislative district in which you reside.

  6. State your position as “for” or “against” the proposed bill; identify the bill number.

  7. Be concise. Your testimony should be no longer than 5 minutes. Plan your comments before speaking to a legislative committee. You may want to write your comments down and read them to the committee or use your typed testimony to keep you on track.

  8. Share a personal story or anecdote to explain your position. This is often the most powerful part. Follow up with factual arguments and data to support your viewpoint.

  9. Conclude by asking for specific action: “I urge you to vote in favor of…” or “against” [bill number]

  10. Thank the committee for the opportunity to speak. “Your consideration of these matters and solutions is very much appreciated.”

Know when and how to provide online oral testimony

  1. Go to North Dakota’s legislative branch website: www.ndlegis.gov

  2. Click on Session Information at the top of the page.

  3. Under Bill Information, click on Bills and Resolutions

  4. Click on the bill that you are following.

  5. Click on the Hearings tab. This is where the date, time, and location of the hearing will be posted. Video link instructions will be provided.

Consider creating an account with the Legislative Tracking System to receive important, time-sensitive alerts on the bills that you are following.

Note: Not all committees allow testimony via streaming video. If you can’t be there in-person, consider submitting a written testimony.