What happens here at the state Capitol has a direct impact on the lives of everyone in this state. But many people may be surprised to learn that when proposed laws and budget bills are being discussed and debated in committee, the public really doesn’t have an opportunity to ask questions or voice their concerns. Those discussions and debates are limited to the legislators serving on a particular committee. While the chair can decide to allow other experts, or even occasionally invite a citizen to speak, it’s usually only those who support the bill being considered - not those who oppose it. If you have concerns you want to share, you have to try to set up meetings with legislators, and even then, those discussions are not part of the public record.