Sen. Jim Patrick’s (pictured) bill to require high school students to pass a civics test is alive — but just barely. The Senate Education Committee sent the bill to the Senate floor for amendments late Wednesday afternoon — after attempts to pass the bill, and defeat the bill, failed on identical tied votes. The split on the committee reflected the divided testimony on Patrick’s Senate Bill 1071. Supporters echoed the Twin Falls Republican’s contention that a test will give graduates a better understanding of civics and government. Ada County chief deputy clerk Phil McGrane said the test could even help stem a “steady, constant decline” in voting and voter registration. “Something needs to be done”/Kevin Richert, IDEDNews.org. More here (second item).

Question: We had a civics-test requirement to graduate high school back in the day in my town. Obviously, I passed. No big deal. But I don't know if I support this legislation. Thoughts?