Please review this “Legislator for an Hour” Information Briefing Packet” and the overview below before Wednesday to make the most out of the chance to discuss and vote on a bill on the floor of the North Carolina General Assembly. A printed copy of the briefing packet will be provided to you at session.
During the Government session, you will have a unique opportunity to gain insight into the legislative process, including discussing and voting on a bill on the floor of the North Carolina House. The first day of the session will include presentations from lobbyists, current or former legislators, and content experts. Each class member will be assigned to either the minority or majority caucus and will be seated by caucus for the day. Following the background presentations, the class will be given instructions about the voting process and role playing during the simulation.
After receiving instructions, the full group will convene in the House Chamber in the NC Legislative Building to debate and vote on the bill. Some members of each caucus have been assigned scripted speaking roles to guide the exercise. There will be opportunities for others to participate throughout the simulation.
To meet House protocol, business attire is requested for Wednesday. Minimum attire is jacket and tie for men, dignified dress for women, no denim.
The “Required Reading” link above is your pre-session homework. Be sure to review these materials before the first day of the Government session. The more you know about the issue, the better you will be able to participate during the exercise.
A Note from the Planning Team
There’s a lot of text in the briefing packet. Don’t sweat the details! The simulation is meant to be instructive but also engaging and entertaining. Here are a few things you really need to know:
The following links are resources recommended by session presenters, planning committee members, and past LNC speakers. These are not required, but exploring those that interest you will enrich your experience both during and after the November Government Session.
