There is an art to amending a bill that has already passed one house of the legislature.

The bill is no longer the idea of one member.

It’s the work product of a committee, which is then ratified by the full body.

Twice in the last few days, people have sought my advice.

Don’t surprise people in the house of origin, I told them.

If your amendment gets adopted, the other house must agree to it or reach a compromise.

Once you’ve decided how you want to change the bill, share it.

Don’t testify against the bill or make your amendment known for the first time at a public bill hearing.

Talk to people in advance.

As the Godfather said, “Keep your friends close but your enemies closer.”