How to Testify Before the Maryland General Assembly: A Step-by-Step Guide

One of the most powerful tools working people have in Annapolis is your voice. Testifying—whether written, oral, or both—puts real stories behind the legislation that impacts our jobs, families, and communities.

The good news? Signing up to testify before the Maryland General Assembly (MGA) is easier than it sounds. Follow the steps below to make sure your testimony is officially on the record.

Step 1: Create a MyMGA Account

Before you can sign up to testify, you’ll need a MyMGA account.

Visit the Maryland General Assembly website.
Click the “MyMGA” box in the top right corner of the page.
Register for an account.

Important: The first and last name you use when registering will appear on the bill’s official Witness List, so be sure to use the name you want publicly associated with your testimony.

Step 2: Sign Up as a Witness

Once your MyMGA account is created, you’ll be directed to the Bill Tracking Lists page.

On the left-hand side of the page, click “Witness Signup.”
You will be taken to the witness sign-up screen.

On the Witness Signup Page:

Select the Committee: Use the dropdown menu to choose the committee where the bill will be heard.
- Note: You will only see bills that are open for sign-up during the official testimony window. For example, if a bill is scheduled for a hearing on the 30th, sign-up typically opens on the 28th. On the 28th, only bills being heard on the 30th will appear.
Choose Your Position: Select whether you are testifying in favor, in opposition, or informational.
Select Your Testimony Type: Choose whether you are submitting written testimony, oral testimony, or both.
Upload Your Testimony: Click “Upload File(s)” to submit written testimony and any supporting documents.

Step 3: Save Your Signed-Up Items

This step is critical—don’t skip it.

Once you’ve finished uploading your testimony, make sure to save your sign-up.
Click on “Signed Up Items” to confirm which bills you are registered to testify on.

Important Reminder: If you do not click “save,” your witness sign-up will not go through—even if you uploaded testimony.

Why Testifying Matters

Legislators pay attention to who shows up. When union members, workers, and allies testify, it sends a clear message: these issues aren’t abstract—they affect real people.

Whether you’re sharing a personal story, professional expertise, or union priorities, your testimony helps shape policy and strengthens the labor movement in Maryland.

If you have questions or need help preparing testimony, reach out to your union or the Maryland State AFL-CIO. We’ve got your back.