JFAC members will be listening to citizens

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee, the panel of legislators responsible for setting budgets in the Idaho Legislature, will be taking public testimony on the state budget on Friday from 8 to 10:30 a.m. in the Capitol Auditorium in Boise.

Last year's session marked the first time JFAC members heard from citizens who commented on the public school and Health and Welfare budgets.

Other legislative committees had previously heard from members of the public, but not JFAC. The budgeting committee generally receives testimony only from the state agencies whose budgets they are working on.

Those testifying are encouraged to focus on the budget and be specific in their concerns and comments.

Citizens are allowed a maximum of three minutes of testimony each.

Legislative staff will begin accepting sign-ups at 7 a.m, and those wishing to testify are encouraged to arrive early as the opportunity to sign up is on a first come, first serve basis.

Those unable to attend the public hearing are encouraged to send their thoughts to [email protected].