Texas, along with 23 other states in the U.S., cannot collect signatures to place an issue on the ballot for a vote to change state law. Additionally, in 1997, Texas passed a state law requiring that all drug laws be enforced and changed at the state rather than local level. Because of these limitations, Texans must rely on our state elected officials, specifically our state representatives and state senators, to change our laws.

Submitting personal testimony on an issue which affects you is an effective way to communicate with lawmakers, and helps them to understand how policy impacts Texans in their everyday lives.

Tips for writing effective testimony:

Be polite, respectful, professional, and considerate. Testimony which is insightful, compelling, non-confrontational, and brief is more likely to be retained by those who read it.

Begin with a brief personal introduction which includes your name, where you live, personal background if relevant, and professional background if desired.

Tell your story, including only the most relevant parts. Testimony should be no longer than one page. Explain how the law has impacted you in your day to day life, and how cannabis has helped you or a loved one.

Ask for a specific action, such as supporting a bill, or a certain action such as expanding qualifying conditions, removing THC limits, or other policy change.

Thank them for their time.

Write your testimony out, wait a day, re-read your testimony, and then make any further changes. This will give you an opportunity to reflect and ensure that you are telling legislators exactly the story you want them to hear.

Please use this form to submit your personal story for sharing with legislators. For questions, please contact Stephen@TexasNORML.org and you will receive a response within 72 hours. Please note that you may be contacted from a different email address.