Long before “Hamilton” opened on Broadway, I learned that a legislator wants to be in the room where it happens.

In Annapolis, that usually means being part of the committee leadership that meets prior to the public voting session to decide which bills will get an up arrow, indicating favorable action is expected.

When I was the vice chair of the Judiciary Committee, the chairman, Joe Vallario, discussed pending bills with me and the committee’s legal staff prior to the meeting with the committee leadership.

On most committees.  subcommittees act on bills before they’re reviewed by the leadership group.

However, subcommittees are often presented with an amended bill.

Comments and changes are welcome and accepted at the subcommittee meeting, but there is significant momentum for the amended bill.

I learned today that I will be involved in drafting amendments to two bills before they’re considered by a subcommittee.