New Sen. Dan Johnson, R-Lewiston, (pictured) was assigned to carry his first bill in the Senate today; he's the appointee who replaced Sen. Joe Stegner, R-Lewiston, who took a job as the chief lobbyist for the University of Idaho. The non-controversial measure, HB 356, came from the state Tax Commission and clarifies application procedures for property tax exemptions; it had earlier passed the House unanimously. As is the Senate custom, to Johnson's surprise, nearly every senator voted against the bill - then they rose, one by one, and changed their votes to yes. After the bill had passed overwhelmingly, Johnson said, “I need a sweat towel right now, thank you”/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise.

• Budget cuts have pushed IDEQ below 2001 funding level
• Idaho DEQ workers who shift to private sector jobs earn 51% more
• Survey: Teen violence down, suicide risk up
• Amendment to clarify county probation authority heads to ballot
• Occupy bill testimony: "We're not breaking the law, don't turn us into lawbreakers'
• Hammond: "Nobody has the right to seize our common property for private use'
• McKenzie: No public testimony to be taken on "Add the Words" bill

Question: Have you ever been target of a hazing/initiation ritual?