Legislation to change a single word in state law – changing “Albertson” to “The,” to reflect in the law regarding special license plates commemorating universities the recent name change of Albertson College of Idaho to The College of Idaho – passed the House today on a 69-0 vote, and now goes to the governor’s desk. Rep. Diana Thomas, R-Weiser, urged the House to support the change to match the name of “my alma mater,” which was previously The College of Idaho before it added the “Albertson” name.

Thomas, who was appointed to replace Rep. Clete Edmunson, R-Council, was carrying her first bill, so the House gave her its usual freshman hazing – House members initially voted “no,” then quickly changed their votes to “yes” just as the machine was locked. Rep. Dick Harwood, R-St. Maries, also queried Thomas about whether the bill violated a constitutional prohibition on laws changing the name of a person or place. The answer: No, because the college’s name already has been changed. That was the last bill the House is taking up today; both parties are headed into caucus.

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