Dear Friends,
The state sovereignty resolution passed in committee, (10-1), and is now awaiting scheduling for a Senate floor debate!
Several people came to the Senate Judiciary Committee meeting on Tuesday to witness the final action process for the state sovereignty resolution which I introduced last February, 2009.
While awaiting that scheduling, the next step is the Health Care Freedom Amendment - SCR 1626, which puts the state sovereignty declaration into action. More than just a message — this legislation will actively protect the people of Kansas from the federal government forcing them into a governmental health care system they do not want.
The hearing for this proposed constitutional amendment is this Tuesday, Feb. 9, and will be held in the Docking building, room 784, at 1:15 p.m.
Hearings are held so citizens and lobbyists have the opportunity to testify. The public can attend any of the meetings.
At a later time, the committee votes on the bill and it is sent to the full Senate with a report on committee action. Usually, the bill is not voted on in committee the same day the bill is heard.
To testify at a hearing, you should contact the committee secretary. In this case, the Senate Health Committee Secretary is Jan Lunn. You can reach Jan at (785) 296-7384.
You will need to find out:
- the time limitations
- the number of copies of testimony to provide
- other guidelines
If you know of others testifying on this bill, try to coordinate testimony prior to the hearing to avoid duplication.
Seating will be limited, but due to the sound system, you might be able to hear the testimony in the outside hallway.
You will be asked to register at the door. If there is not time for all interested parties to be heard, you may submit written testimony.
If you decide to testify:
- Begin your testimony by addressing the chair and committee members. Introduce yourself, declare who you represent, and state if you are a proponent or opponent of the measure.
- Be courteous in your language and address.
- Be brief--do not repeat what others have said.
- Try not to be nervous--most hearings are informal. There may be questions from the committee members.
- There is to be no clapping, booing, cheering or disruption of any hearing.
- There may be no decision made by the committee on the day of the hearing. Continue to watch the Committee Agenda in the Calendar for final action on the bill.
God bless you and God bless Kansas!
In honor of your liberty,
Mary Pilcher Cook
