Public Deliberation Made Easier?

Yesterday, my post/public service announcement over at BioLaw discussed a pending proposal in Michigan that would require all sixth grade girls to receive a vaccine which prevents the transmission of the virus leading to about 70% of cervical cancer. When checking the bill status (it passed the state Senate almost unanimously and has been sitting in a state House committee for about two weeks), I noticed that the Michigan legislature’s website allows public posting of comments regarding pending legislation. This seems like a unique feature to me, though it’s certainly possible that this is becoming more common and I just haven’t noticed. Anyone aware of other states doing this? Thoughts about how legislators consider these comments, as compared to general letters or email/ voicemail messages left in their offices? Anyone out there posted such comments?