NorthwestFebruary 13, 2009

Associated Press

BOISE - The director of the Idaho Women's Commission says it is still relevant in the state, and she points to one glaring reason why: the state Legislature.

Kitty Kunz, the commission's part-time director, told lawmakers Wednesday that women have yet to reach equity in the state, as shown by the relatively few women serving in the statehouse.

In the Senate, women hold eight of the 35 seats, and just 18 of the 70 seats in the House.

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"We feel our purpose and value is still necessary," she told state budget writers. "Have women in Idaho achieved equality? We only have to look at this body and the leadership in Idaho to see that that hasn't happened."

Kunz's remarks come amid renewed efforts by Sen. Joyce Broadsword, R-Sagle, to dismantle the commission, which began in the 1960s to encourage women to play a role in their community.

Earlier this month, Broadsword told lawmakers the commission's goals have been met. Sen. Kate Kelly, D-Boise, criticized Broadsword's bill, calling it a draconian measure and suggested the better remedy would be to modify the commission's mission statement.

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