Tips for Testifying

Mineral Owner Testimony is one of the most effective methods we have to educate others about private property rights.  The United States is the only country in the world where minerals are privately owned.  Everywhere else those valuable minerals are owned by the governing body.   In America there are approximately 350 million people, only 12 million of us are mineral owners.  We are a minority and our property rights are protected by the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.  When you are a mineral owner you own from just beneath the surface to the center of the earth.  There can be pay zones in many different layers under the surface.  The values of the minerals often far surpass the value of the surface.  Minerals are real property, like your home is real property, and they can be bought and sold, just like a private home can be bought or sold.  Mineral ownership is often misunderstood by the public, policy makers at all levels of government, the media, and even mineral owners themselves.  When we testify we have opportunities to educate many others.  Here are some tips to consider when you have the opportunity to stand up for your private property rights by telling your story....this is called 'testimony'.

1.  Be calm, be business like.

2.  Write down your thoughts, be respectful, even if others are not.  It is fine if you read your statement.

3.  Time limits are often enforced as many wish to speak, (often they are on the opposing side).  Make your statement 2 or 3 minutes long, shorter is    also fine.

4.  Let others know how your mineral estate has helped your family...allowed you to hold on to/grow a business, buy equipment, hire others, pay for education for yourself or your children, build a new home, contribute to a charity, supplement your retirement, pay for medical bills, etc.

Never hesitate to contact any of the board members if you have questions.