How to Submit Public Comment on a Proposed Rule or Bill
"The halls of power are not silent; they are filled with the voices of those who got there first. Let your voice be one of them."
— Paradise Folk School
Be Comment Ready: Video Walkthrough
Watch this short video series before you submit your comment. It walks through finding proposed rules, reading summaries, and writing effective comments — neutral, practical, and to the point.
A resource from beyond our school: This video was not created by Paradise Folk School, but we offer it as a helpful companion. Use it alongside our written guide. Knowing how to submit public comment is how we put neighbor-love into practice.
Before a federal or state regulation becomes binding, the government usually asks the public: "What do you think" That's a public comment period. Many bills also have committee hearings where public testimony is allowed. This is a direct channel for our political ministry.
1 Identify the Rule or Bill Open for Comment
Federal Regulations
Check regulations.gov to find federal rules open for public comment.
State Regulations
Look for "public notices" on your state's agency websites or use NCSL's tracking tools.
Legislation
Find committee hearings on the legislature's website (e.g., tn.gov committee calendar).
2 Read the Proposed Rule or Bill Summary
Even if you don't understand every line, focus on how it affects the rights in Article II. Does it weaken housing protections Expand healthcare Affect clean water
Focus on impact.
You don't need to be a legal expert. Ask yourself: How does this affect my community My neighbors The vulnerable Your lived experience is valuable testimony.
3 Write Your Comment
A strong public comment has four key qualities:
Clear
State at the top whether you support or oppose the measure. Don't make officials guess your position.
Personal
How does this affect your community, your school, your Paradise Commons project Tell a story, but keep it concise.
Factual
Cite any data or the Charter (e.g., "This rule would violate the principles of Article II by...").
Specific
Reference the docket number or bill number at the beginning of your comment.
4 Submit It
For Federal Regulations
- Go to regulations.gov
- Search the docket number
- Click "Comment"
- Paste your text and submit
For Legislative Testimony
Find the committee instructions on the legislature's website. You often must sign up in advance to speak in person or submit written testimony.
Tip: Deadlines for testimony are often strict. Plan ahead.
5 Spread the Word
Use our Discord to encourage others to submit similar comments. Mass, authentic public comment can shift policy. This is field ministry on the digital front.
Power in numbers.
When hundreds or thousands of people submit thoughtful comments on the same issue, agencies and legislators take notice. Coordinate with your community, but ensure each comment is authentic and personal.
Official Resources
Charter Connection
This guide is an essential tactic for Article VII—Political Witness that transforms passive observation into active governance. Your comment becomes a sermon for the public record.
When we submit public comments, we don't merely observe democracy. We practice it.
The "Be Comment Ready" Video Series
Here are the direct links to the practical videos that walk through submitting public comments:
Watch all videos in order on our playlist:
View Full Playlist