Testifying for Animals: A Guide to Speaking at Legislative Hearings
Testifying at a legislative hearing is one of the most powerful ways you can advocate for animals. Whether you’re a first-time speaker or a seasoned advocate, we hope this guide helps you feel prepared, confident, and inspired to make your voice heard.
Have questions or want help preparing your testimony? We’re here for you! Contact us anytime at advocacy@mspca.org.
Why Your Voice Matters
Legislators want to hear from members of the public. Testifying give you a chance to make your voice heard and help shape policy.
- Your personal story is the most powerful part of your testimony. Why do you care about this issue? How has it affected you, your community, or the animals you care about?
- You don’t need to be an expert. Legislators are not expecting a policy brief—they want to hear from real people.
- Focus on what matters most to you. Don’t feel the need to cover every talking point or repeat what others have already said.
- Your time and presence are appreciated. Taking time out of your day to show up means a lot and is noticed and respected.
- You’re unlikely to face tough questions. Legislators are there to listen, not to challenge you.
Understanding the Process
How Hearings Work
Every bill in the Massachusetts Legislature is assigned a public hearing. At these hearings, anyone can testify in support of or opposition to the bill.
- Hearings are hybrid– you can attend in person at the State House or testify remotely.
- The State House website lists all upcoming hearings. We also send notifications to members of our Animal Action Team.
- Multiple bills are often heard at the same hearing, and the order of testimony is not always predictable, so be prepared to wait.
Signing Up to Testify
You’ll usually need to sign up a few days before the hearing.
- Sign-up links, locations, and timing details will be posted on the hearing page.
- Whether you’re testifying in person or remotely, your confirmation email will include both the remote link and in-person location.
Attending In Person
Getting to the State House
- Directions & Map: See here
- Best parking option: Boston Common Garage (see map and rates). It’s affordable, but the walk to the State House is several blocks and uphill.
- Entrances: Ashburton Place (accessible) or General Hooker entrance (Beacon Street)
Be sure to allow extra time for traffic, parking, and going through security (metal detectors, etc.).
When to Arrive
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to get a seat.
- Add another 10–15 minutes to get through security.
What to Expect During the Hearing
- Hearings begin with testimony from legislators, especially the bill’s sponsors.
- Committee Chairs will then call names from the sign-up list.
- You won’t know exactly when your name will be called, so be prepared to wait.
Crafting Your Testimony
The Two Most Important Rules:
1. Be authentic
2. Be brief (3 minutes max!)
Oral Testimony Outline
- Introduction
“Good morning/afternoon Chair [Name], Chair [Name], and members of the committee.
My name is [Your Name], and I live in [Your Town/City].
I’m here today to testify in support of [Bill Number & Title].”
- Talking Points
Share 1–2 key points about the bill. For example:
- The number of animals impacted
- Public health concerns
- Environmental or social justice implications
- Your Story
This is the heart of your testimony. Why does this issue matter to you? What motivated you to speak out?
- Conclusion
“Thank you for your time and consideration.”
Tips for Effective Testimony
- Practice your timing. Keep it under 3 minutes. Run through it a few times to be sure.
- Check if your legislator is on the committee. If they are, mention that you’re a constituent—it makes a difference!
- It’s okay to not know everything. You can follow up with answers later and we can help with that.
- Stay calm and respectful. Even if the hearing becomes contentious, maintain professionalism.
- Avoid repetition. If a point’s already been made, reference it instead of repeating:
- “As others have mentioned, [point], which I also find deeply troubling.”
- “I want to echo [Name]’s testimony and urge the committee to support this bill.”
- Short testimonies can be just as powerful. Especially during long hearings, a concise, authentic message is often best.
Submitting Written Testimony
Even if you testify orally, we strongly encourage you to submit written testimony as well.
- You usually have up to two weeks after the hearing to submit it.
- Your written testimony can match your oral testimony or include more detail.
- Email it to us or to the committee contact listed on the hearing signup page or in your confirmation email.
Final Thought
Your testimony doesn’t have to be perfect, just genuine and clear.
Focus on what matters most to you, speak with sincerity, and keep it short. You are making a difference just by showing up.
Need support or feedback on your testimony?
We’re happy to help: advocacy@mspca.org
What else can I do to prepare?
