As Public Policy Interns at HOME Line, we have had the chance to see our state government at work virtually and in person. Although we both have long shared an interest in state politics, we weren’t fully aware of how it all came together, making the prospect of seeing the legislative process in action an exciting opportunity for us. While the legislative process often seems distant from our everyday lives, it is essential to remember that the State Capitol, in all of its grandeur and decorum, can be seen as a house shared by all Minnesotans, as we bestow our elected officials with the duty of serving us and actively listening to our concerns. Thus, we believe that all individuals interested in engaging in the political process should give it a chance, and we hope these experiences can shed light on its importance and accessibility.
The In-Person Experience: Having a Front Row Seat by Jeffrey Barrera
Attending several Senate and House committee hearings, my first takeaway from these legislative discussions is just how invested our legislators are in maintaining decorum. “Madam Chair,” “Senator,” “We have a quorum,” and various other phrases will be repeated countless times during such meetings. The formality of these discussions often makes it challenging to engage with the topics being brought forth, so it is essential to give yourself some grace if you occasionally grow tired of the redundancy. While I have thought to myself during these meetings, “Who on earth would talk like this all the time?” I have grown to appreciate that the structure of these discussions emphasizes the gravity of the work being done and the respect that legislators have for the process.
While hearing legislators discuss the bills they are championing is informative, no part of a legislative committee hearing is more impactful than being present for public testimony. It is one thing to read a proposed bill online or hear a legislator parse through its details. Still, the greater context of a bill is brought forward by an individual or advocacy group sharing their stories with legislators. One notable experience during a Senate committee was a hearing where two elderly individuals testified in support of a bill to make their housing more affordable. Their heartfelt stories of financial struggle and uncertainty underscored the very real consequences of legislative action—or inaction. Moments like these remind us that behind every bill, there are people whose lives will be directly affected.
Furthermore, being in person at committee meetings has exposed me to the occasional unpredictability of discussions. While agendas are set, testimony and debate can lead to unexpected turns. At times, legislators ask pointed questions that, at best, prompt deeper discussion or, at worst, are meant to incite reactions as a means of scoring political points. Witnessing this dynamic firsthand offers insight into not just the policies being discussed but also the political strategies at play.
For those interested in engaging with the political process in person, my advice is simple: show up. Your presence, whether as an observer or a testifier, is invaluable. The more I attended, the more comfortable I became navigating the Capitol and understanding the nuances of legislative work. Being physically present demystifies the process and reinforces the notion that government is truly for the people.
The Virtual Experience: Accessibility at Your Fingertips by Abigail Helgerson
Have you ever wanted to attend a legislative meeting but didn’t want to get out of your pajamas or comfy clothes? Well, I have, and I can tell you about all the benefits of watching legislative hearings from the comfort of your own home, work, or even the gym! Watching legislative hearings on my own time, from wherever I am, has been a blessing in disguise. I can sit down and watch the Housing and Homelessness Prevention Hearing while drinking my morning cup of coffee and easily look up the bills currently being discussed. While you might have a job or other responsibilities, being able to tune into these hearings during your free time means you can stay informed without sacrificing your daily activities.
Being able to watch legislative hearings from home also allows for easy access to supplemental materials. You can instantly look up information about the bills being discussed, access previous testimonies, or research legislators’ voting histories. This flexibility helps you stay informed and develop a deeper understanding of the issues being debated without needing to be physically present or relying on others to relay information. Many legislative bodies offer online platforms where viewers can submit questions, comments, or feedback during live hearings. This opens up an avenue for greater civic engagement. For many, understanding how local policy changes impact their daily lives is key. Being able to watch hearings about issues like housing, homelessness prevention, or education in real-time allows people to understand the specific details of policies being debated, who is advocating for them, and how they might affect their community and families.
Whether experienced in-person or virtually, attending legislative hearings is an eye-opening experience. Taking part in the political process has shown us that public policy is not made in a vacuum – it’s shaped by voices, stories, and collective action. For anyone curious about how change happens, stepping into the legislative arena is a powerful place to start.
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