A user's guide to Rhode Island government.

The Rhode Island General Assembly

Rhode Island's State House is often described as a "living museum," and there's no better way to get in touch with its history than by becoming a part of it through the legislative process.

When the General Assembly meets, from January to June, the opportunities to observe, demonstrate and testify on a subject of personal interest are plentiful and provide a better window into the workings of government than any panel of pundits.

But know what you are getting into ahead of time.

If you want lawmakers to know where you stand on, say, gun control, be prepared to wait. Last year's Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on firearm-related bills drew thousands to the capitol, and went through the night and into the next morning. Other hot-button cultural issues, such as abortion, also draw a large crowd.

Other hearings, on more obscure topics, are the opposite and can be over in minutes.

Read more: https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/politics/2021/07/19/users-guide-ri-government-everything-you-need-know-general-assembly-state-house/8015859002/