The Hearing Crashers' Guide

Hearings are meetings held by the House or Senate during Session to discuss the budget, legislation, or other issues. You can check the Senate schedule or House schedule to see what is coming up. Some meetings are more interesting than others, but regardless of the topic, it's a cool way to experience how government works and I challenge you to try it.

Technically you can't crash a hearing, because the general public is invited. Most meetings are held in the Capitol (CAP) or across the street at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building (CLOB). You can take MARTA to the Georgia State stop and walk about a block from there. From Tech, I always go by bike. Be warned, this requires a decent level of street skill. The roads and drivers in downtown Atlanta can be intimidating and on some of the downhills you'll be going near 30 mph! And this method may require you to bring a change of clothes and/or shoes in a small backpack. When you get to the Capitol or CLOB, go into the front entrance. If the security guard recognizes you or you have a badge, you can walk right in. Otherwise you show your ID, put your bag through a scanner, and walk through a metal detector.

Dress like you are going to a job interview. The legislators will all be wearing suits, and you can't go wrong in a suit or one step below a suit. Everyone is very conservatively dressed, and you will blend in perfectly if you are too. I've never seen a bare shoulder or knee in there. Prepare for extreme temperature variation. The rooms are usually very cold, unless there is a big crowd and then it gets hot.

Usually, the room consists of Senators and/or Representatives, agency representatives, legislative staff, the media, and lobbyists. The legislators have assigned seats, and there are chairs in the back for everyone else. You may have to show up early to get a seat in high profile meetings because more of the press and lobbyists come. The Governor was the first speaker at the Joint Budget Briefings I attended today, and after he left, so did much of the audience.

Arriving early is a good idea anyway, as it gives you the chance to talk to other people, which can be the most interesting part of the whole experience. Wear a pin with your school name, if you have one, and look for others from your school. Almost everyone represents their alma mater on their name tag or with a pin. You can see what lobbyists represent (non-profits, unions, farmers, etc.) by looking at their name tags. Don't be shy about talking to them; networking is the heart of their business.

I highly recommend taking notes because it helps you pay attention, remember things for later, and fit in with the rest of the audience. Etiquette is still highly valued in Georgia, so shake hands, silence your phone, and avoid bringing any food or drinks other than water. Legislators and staff will mostly be drinking the endless supply of Diet Coke they receive. You don't have to stay the whole time, but if possible, enter and exit the room as they are changing speakers. Usually each speaker gives a presentation followed by questions and answers, but only legislators can ask the questions (so don't raise your hand).

I hope this doesn't sound like too many rules. There is really nothing to worry about. I guarantee you that everyone will be excited to see a student taking interest in state policy and will make you feel welcome. If you have already attended a meeting, have questions, or attend one this Session, please leave a comment.