Rep. Karey Hanks – District 35

A Month at the Capitol

We have been here for almost a month, and have starting reviewing and voting on bills. I always wondered how the legislators could pass so many (300-600) laws every session. Some of the bills we approved include clearing and updating language.

We have finished Rules review and we have begun with bill presentations. I have been asked to co-sponsor a bill to simplify Immunization waivers. This will enable parents to submit a letter exempting children from immunizations as an option to the present exemption form. This is a matter of parents’ rights.

Another issue being discussed is the legalization of CBD oil. It has been found to be very effective in treating epilepsy. For more information, see HOPEVETOED.COM The bill passed both houses last year but was vetoed by Governor Otter.

I continue to push for introduction of the Nonresidency bill, RS24941, which simply allows any law-abiding citizen to carry a handgun in the city limits. Presently anyone over 21 years old may carry handguns, shotguns and rifles anywhere in Idaho, except for the restriction on nonresidents of Idaho with handguns in city limits. Confusing, right? Presently House bill 93 will allow military people to carry, but it doesn’t even include their family members. You may contact the committee members: Tom Loertscher (chairman), Jason Monks (vice chairman), Lynn Luker, Brent Crane, Joe Palmer, Vito Barbieri, James Holtzclaw, Steve Harris, Randy Armstrong, Priscilla Giddings, Dustin Manwaring, Christy Zito—thank her as she is working on this, Elaine Smith and Paulette Jordan.

Christy Zito is also working to adopt the Castle Doctrine in our state, so it would be great if you would contact the same committee about this issue. I know it takes some work to look these people up—just go to https://legislature.idaho.gov/.

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I am faithfully committed to representing the interests of all the communities in District 35. In serving as your representative, I firmly believe my job is to represent what you think about the issues, so it is a priority for me to receive feedback from you. Please feel free to email, call or come visit me at the Capitol in Boise anytime. I can be reached at: (208) 332-1056 or khanks@house.idaho.gov.