McKenzie: Sign-ins from today’s hearing will become part of the record

Senate State Affairs Chairman Curt McKenzie, R-Nampa, told the crowd in the Capitol Auditorium this morning, “I apologize for the inconvenience on moving over. I think this is a much better location, and I should’ve done this from the beginning because … of the interest.”

He encouraged all present to sign in, and indicate the bill they’re interested in and their position; McKenzie noted that that sign-in will become part of the committee’s minutes and the state’s historical records of the proceeding. A big crowd is here to support the “Add The Words” human rights legislation.

Rep. Marv Hagedorn, R-Meridian, then presented the first item on the agenda this morning - to expand the GARVEE highway bonding program to include bridges. “We have gained substantial savings because of the economy in our GARVEE program,” Hagedorn said, so the bill allows for spending on additional projects within the original amount. The committee voted unanimously to introduce that measure, without discussion.