Today truly was a historic day in the House of Representatives. Today we voted on LD 1020 An Act to End Discrimination in Civil Marriage. The count in the House was 87 - 59. Many Representatives, on both sides of the issue, gave very moving testimony. Being there was a very emotional experience for me. Locally, I heard from over 200 supporters and maybe 50 people in opposition of the bill. I believe voting for LD 1020 was morally the right thing to do and I proudly voted to support the measure.

As you all have probably heard, the State needs to cut a combined total of $600 million from the budgets of 2009-2011. We caucused on the issue this evening and it is going to be tough and it is going to hurt. I would expect cuts to local revenue sharing, education, and health and human services. Tough times are here, but I am optimistic we will make it through and be even better for it when it is over.

A public hearing was held for my LD 1300 An Act To Establish Head Injury Safety Requirements for School Athletic Programs. Before the public hearing, I amended the bill. I was very worried about the bill as it was written. (It would have had a huge fiscal note.) The public hearing went well and I am very optimistic that something will pass out of committee.

Next week, we will be finishing up our committee work. After we finish our committee work, we will be in session three or more days a week for as many hours as it takes each day. This could mean some long days and long nights are coming! Enjoy your week!

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