When’s the show? The 20 members of JFAC — Idaho’s budget committee — will hear public testimony from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday in the Capitol Auditorium.

What makes a hearing news? Until last year, JFAC hadn’t allowed testimony from ordinary citizens in 92 years. Hearings on cuts to K-12 and Medicaid drew more than 1,000 people in 2010. Co-Chairs Maxine Bell and Dean Cameron decided to continue the experiment with one session this year, even in a better budget climate.

Don’t be late: Sign-ups begin at 7 a.m. About 50 people are expected to get 3 minutes each to testify.

Testimony tips: Written testimony is encouraged and bringing copies is a plus. You also may submit comments to JFACtestimony@lso.idaho.gov

Do they give a rip? The committee is making a genuine effort to make sure the public knows about the opportunity. According to a committee guide on testimony: “Do not be nervous as there is no right or wrong way to testify. Legislators are your friends and neighbors elected to represent you — they want to hear what you have to say.”