January 23, 2012

Occupy Boise members invite lawmakers to meet-and-greet Tuesday; vote set for Tuesday on bill that could evict group

Statesman staff - Idaho Statesman

Testimony on a bill that could effectively outlaw Occupy Boise's encampment at 6th and Jefferson streets Downtown is set for a vote Tuesday.

Testimony lasted for about two hours today before the House State Affairs Committee, mostly in opposition. One person testified in favor, saying the tents on the grounds of the Old Ada County Courthouse embarrass her.

The proposed law, sponsored by Rep. Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, would outlaw camping on the capitol mall and other state-owned properties. It would not apply to endowment lands, department of parks and recreation lands or department of fish and game lands. Bedke said Friday that it's important for the government to maintain the "highest aesthetics" of state grounds.

Critics of the tent city at the Old Ada County Courthouse since Nov. 5 is an eyesore and nothing more than squatting on state property. But members say their "indefinite vigil" is a form of free speech, and they are seeking redress of grievances.

Occupy members have invited state lawmakers to a meet-and-greet at the encampment from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday. The event's hosts say they will serve coffee, hot chocolate and baked goods.

Read House Bill 404 by clicking the link to the right.