JOINT FINANCE COMMITTEE HEARINGS — WHAT TO EXPECT AND PRESENTATION TIPS

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Arrive early. Line to speak will start early. Doors might open 2 hours before the hearing.
• If necessary, you can speak later in the day but allow for waiting time.

PRESENTATION TIPS

• There is a 2 - minute time limit. Think strategically. Be brief. Be specific. Have an affirmative ask.
• Write out your presentation. Count the words. Practice it out loud.
• Identify yourself and your community. Connect with your legislator.
• Begin with your issue or main concern.
• Tell your story. Use the “Public Narrative” framework. Answer: Why me? Why us? What are we going to do about it?
• Create urgency. Tell the “Story of Now”.
• Make a specific ask. End your testimony with something short and catchy. Use RE – reinvest, restore, etc.
• Check the briefing papers on the budget. Review talking points on your issue. Fact - check your statement.
• Use the JFC Hearings as an opportunity to resonate across common values.
• Bring 3 copies: one for the clerk, one for your group and one for yourself.

SOURCE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Wisconsin Leadership Development (WILD) Budget Action Workshop 2017,

Staff and Volunteer Trainers