Testimony has wrapped up at the Idaho Legislature’s panel on children at risk and faith healing. Co-Chair Rep. Joe Palmer, R-Meridian, thanked all those who spoke and noted that it’s an emotional issue. “I think everyone in this room understands that everyone loves their children and wants the best  for them,” Palmer said. “Where the government comes into that I guess is what we’ll decide during the legislative session.”

Forty-five people testified today, 20 of them in favor of removing Idaho's faith-healing exemptions, and 25 against.

With that, the panel adjourned; this was its final meeting. It won’t be making any recommendation to full Legislature. But Senate Co-Chair Dan Johnson, R-Lewiston, said, “There are legislators on this working group that are talking to each other about potential legislation.”

Johnson said, “We were charged with making a complete review on this subject.” He said the co-chairs may sign a letter summarizing what came up at its two meetings and various options, and present that to legislative leaders.