Advocacy at the Capitol

We’re inviting our community to show up in support of this legislation on Tuesday, April 21 in Sacramento. This is a key moment in the process, and a visible presence from our industry matters.

Attendees will have the opportunity to stand and state their support during the Assembly session—simply sharing your name and organization, if you choose. No speeches or preparation required.

If you’re able to join us, we encourage you to bring a colleague and be part of this moment.

View full details below and plan your visit.


Questions:

Please contact advocacy@iidanc.org

 

Date

Tuesday, April 21 2026

Time

8:30 AM

Location

Assembly Committee on Business and Professions
Swing Space:
1021 O Street, Room 1100
Sacramento, CA 95814

Organizer

IIDA Northern California Advocacy

Agenda

  • 8:30 a.m. – Arrive at Swing Space (IIDA room for T-shirts & meetup) Room: 5100
  • 9:00 a.m. – Hearing begins (Room 1100)

Note: Bill order may change. A.B. 1796 may be heard anytime between 9:00am & 12:00pm

Parking

DGS Parking Garage, 1500 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Additional Information

  • Security checkpoints occur upon entrance to the swing space. You go through security each time you enter the building. Security lines often get backed up so be sure to give yourself enough time (we recommend arriving at security 10-15 mins before meetings).
  • Bathrooms of the Capitol Swing Space are located on the ground floor, near the building entrance, and on every floor near the rotundas. There are water fountains located near the bathrooms. 

“Me To0” Speaker Guide

In the California state legislature, a “me too” refers to a, often seconds-long, public comment during hearings where individuals state their name, affiliation, and support for or opposition to a bill. This method allows large groups to show consensus on legislation after the main speakers have provided detailed testimony.

Understand the Rules

  • You will only have a limited time – just your name and position
  • You are not allowed to give a full statement or argument
  • Committee chair Marc Berman will stop you if you go over time

This is standard procedure and applies to everyone.

What You Should Say

Follow this exact format:

  • Your name
  • Your organization (or “self”)
  • Your position (support or oppose)

Keep it simple: Name. Organization. Position on the bill.
Example: “John Smith, Design Firm, in support.” or “John Smith, speaking for myself, in support.”

What Not to Do

  • Do not explain your reasoning
  • Do not tell a story
  • Do not go beyond a few seconds
  • Do not engage in back and forth with the committee

Even strong arguments will be cut off in this portion.

Practical Tips

  • Practice your sentence before approaching the microphone
  • Speak clearly and at a steady pace
  • Keep it short and direct
  • If needed, write it down and read it

How to Get More Time

If you want to fully present your position:

  • Request to be a lead witness in advance
  • Coordinate with staff or advocacy groups
  • Submit written testimony