Every gun bill is heard in an open meeting with public testimony before it is considered by both sides of the Colorado General Assembly (House and Senate).
Sign up to speak in person alongside other gun owners at the capitol or over Zoom on a computer or smartphone at these committee hearings to be heard by Colorado’s lawmakers!
Testifying about how a bill will impact your life at a committee hearing is one of the most potent ways you can defend your Second Amendment rights!
This page is designed to help you navigate the process of testifying, so you can stand up for freedom and make your voice heard loud and clear.
How to Sign Up to Testify in Person OR Remotely
To testify at a committee hearing, you need to sign up in advance. Follow these steps:
- Identify the bill you want to speak on and where/when it’s scheduled (e.g., Hearing Item: SB25-003 | Committee: House Judiciary | Time: Upon Adjournment)
- Register to Testify: Sign up online through the General Assembly’s public testimony system (use this link). Follow the instructions on their website to complete your registration.
Tip: If a hearing is scheduled “Upon Adjournment,” the start time depends on when the legislators wrap up other business for the day. These committees could begin as early as 9:30 AM and as late as 5 PM. Check out this Live Capitol Update Board for day-of information!
- Prepare Your Testimony: Once registered, craft your statement. Check out our tips below for guidance on making it impactful.
What to Expect When Testifying
When you testify, you’ll speak before a committee of legislators. Here’s what you need to know:
- Time Limits: You’ll typically have 2-3 minutes to speak, so keep your testimony concise. During hearings where many are signed up, the typical 3 minute testimony will be shortened to 2 minutes.
- Format: You will be asked to state your name before presenting your testimony.
- Questions: Committee members might ask follow-up questions. Answer briefly and respectfully.
- Etiquette: Stay professional and polite. Address committee members as “Senator” or “Representative” and avoid personal attacks.
Tips for Effective Testimony
Make your testimony stand out with these practical tips:
- Use Personal Stories: Share how the legislation affects you personally—real-life examples resonate with lawmakers. Personal stories are by far the most effective way to sway policymakers in your favor on gun rights!
- Focus on Key Points: Stick to one or two main arguments to keep your message clear and strong.
- Prepare in Advance: Write your testimony and practice delivering it within the time limit.
- Stay Calm: Even if you’re passionate, remain respectful and composed.
Key Arguments and Talking Points
Here are some powerful arguments to consider when testifying:
- Self-Defense: Firearms are critical for protecting yourself and your family, especially when help is far away.
- Ineffectiveness of Gun Control: Evidence shows gun control laws don’t reduce crime; they only burden law-abiding citizens while criminals ignore them.
- Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Waiting periods or firearm bans can disproportionately harm women and low-income individuals who rely on guns for safety.
- Constitutional Rights: The Second Amendment guarantees your right to keep and bear arms—any law infringing on this is unconstitutional.
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