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Dr. David Pate, the former CEO of St. Luke’s Health System, has filed a brief in support of a lawsuit by disability rights advocates against top Republican legislators.
“The current COVID-19 precautions in Defendants’ policy that provide for optional use of masks and physical distancing inside the Idaho Capitol Building is wholly inadequate, contrary to public health advice, and not safe for anyone of any age or health status,” Pate wrote.
The plaintiffs have health conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications if they get COVID-19. They include Ahniah Selene, who has quadriplegia and asthma and Kassie Howe, who is immunocompromised. Each said they want to testify as both private citizens and advocates on issues related to health care, disability rights and housing.
Another lawsuit filed against Idaho s legislative leaders over COVID risks at Statehouse Ruth Brown, The Idaho Statesman
Jan. 12 Another lawsuit was filed Monday in federal court against the Idaho Legislature, House Speaker Scott Bedke and Senate Pro Tempore Chuck Winder over a lack of COVID-19 restrictions in the Statehouse.
The plaintiffs request that they make arguments in court and Legislative leadership allows the right to participate fully and safely in the 2021 Idaho Legislative Session and ordering defendants to grant a reasonable modification that ensures plaintiffs can safely and fully participate in the Idaho legislative process.
The lawsuit names various disability-rights organizations as plaintiffs. It was filed by Wendy Olson, of Stoel Rives LLP, who is a former Idaho U.S. Attorney, and Elijah M. Watkins, also of Stoel Rives.
Garcia
FAIRMONT â The city of Fairmont will introduce four new faces to city council next week.
One of those faces will be Anne Bolyard who will represent District 2. Her family has called the East Side of Fairmont home for close to 100 years. She grew up in Kanawha County but spent every summer and holiday in Marion County.
âI have permanently spent my career in state government as well as higher education. Working in research administration and community empowerment and health promotion,â said Bolyard.
All of the new councilorâs degrees are from West Virginia schools. Her masterâs degree is from West Virginia University and her doctorate is from Marshall University.