Success!!!!!

Well our First Annual Converge on the Capitol was a ringing success. We had about 500 people show up from around the state to meet on the steps of the capitol. We had seven legislators and Chic Heileson speak to us on the issues we came to promote to the legislature.
With our legislative partners we put forth a very concise agenda focusing on three separate issues that if passed will advance individual freedoms and liberty for the citizens of Idaho. Representative Lynn Luker talked about health care freedom and legislation that would keep any Idahoan from having to purchase mandatory health insurance. This bill was voted out of committee by a party line vote of 13-3 this morning, so we have made another small step towards guaranteeing individual liberty in Idaho.
Pete Nielson introduced an amendment to the midwifery bill that would make the licensure of midwives in Idaho voluntary. This also will increase health care freedom for Idaho by increasing the choices available to individuals.
Representative Dick Harwood is carrying a Firearms Freedom act almost identical to the one passed in Montana and Tennessee last year. Representative Harwood told us that the Governor had assured him that if the bill reached his desk he would sign it. At least nineteen other states are also considering similar legislation this year. Once we reach critical mass with this legislation, 25-30 states, we can force the Federal government to return the Interstate commerce clause to its proper place and function.
Phil Hart and Lenore Barrett both spoke on separate bills they are introducing regarding a sound currency alternative for Idaho. Phil Hart and Lenore both had some very good one liners in their speeches. Phil called for an audit of the fed and then it abolition. Lenore reminded us all, in speaking to the Federal government, that the federal government was created by the states and the creation is not greater than the creator.
The sound currency issue is the toughest battle we have ahead of us this year. Many people in the state and indeed the legislature itself do not completely understand the problems with our current monetary system. The important thing is we have people talking about the issue now.
After a break we had two conference rooms in the new wings of the capitol that were full for the entire time we had the rooms. In one Wayne Hoffman held a legislative primer which I think I will try and get him to post the Idaho Freedom Foundation web page. There was a lot of good information put out and the room had a pretty constant 50-60 people in it for the entire session.
Elizabeth Allen Hodge hosted a legislative forum in a conference room in the west wing that was attended by several legislators who were available to answer questions from the citizens that were there. Thank you to both of these great leaders for their efforts in increasing awareness of how the legislature works for the citizens of the state.
We did have a very successful day; however it is not time to rest on our laurels. Now the real work begins and all of you are needed. Now we need to contact our legislators, call, e-mail or mail a letter to your senator and representative. The health care freedom bill is being printed for the house we need to put pressure on our legislators to pass that important legislation.
Keep checking back we will keep you informed when important actions occurs and what steps you need to take as a citizen lobbyist. Please remember that the involved citizens protect their liberty, we owe that to our children and grandchildren.
More as events warrant God bless you all.

Mark Balzer Co-Director Sovereign Idaho Coalition