Katherine Hansen of Boise presented lawmakers with 13,740 petitions signed by Idahoans calling for lawmakers to consider a tax increase rather than cut home and community-based services for people with disabilities. The signers, she said, are “13,740 Idahoans from every county and every city in this great state. … The people who signed these petitions urge you to approach the current budget crisis in the same way they approach their budget crisis - everything needs to be on the table”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

• 'These programs work, so please don't cut them'
• Hearing has drawn up to 1000 to Capitol
• Testimony: Idaho is improving PSR services thru new credentialing requirements
• Testimony: 'Idaho will end up paying more'
• Testimony: 'I want to have a job'
• Quadriplegic: 'Bottom line is quality of life -- let me keep mine please'
• Dentists: Proposed changes will cost state more
• Testimony: 'I was a dysfunctional mess'

Question: Would you support a state tax increase to maintain essential services such as Medicaid and schools?

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