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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Batt Sent Bill To Seal Potato Panel Records

From Staff And Wire Reports

Legislation allowing the Idaho Potato Commission to seal some of its records from public inspection is on its way to Gov. Phil Batt.

The House voted 65-4 on Monday for a bill allowing the industry board to seal investigative records, trademark and sales information.

Rep. Bert Stevenson, R-Burley, said the commission, which promotes the potato industry and works to protect the “Grown in Idaho” trademark, has been challenged in recent months by lawyers for out of state interests.

“This will save thousands of dollars in legal fees that can better be used to promote the potatoes of Idaho,” Stevenson said.

The bill’s handful of critics warned that the measure sets up a system that essentially allows the commission to operate in complete secrecy.