House Revenue and Tax chair keeps ban on remote testimony, stresses strict hearing procedures

Chairman Cannon said the House Revenue and Tax Committee will continue its historical policy of not allowing remote testimony and urged members to follow precise procedures for questions and motions.

The chair framed the decision as a judgment about fairness and practicality. "Historically, this committee has not allowed remote testimony, and I've made the decision to continue that policy," Cannon said, adding that written testimony submitted to the committee remains welcome: "It is my understanding that there is a process for having written testimony, submitted by whoever wants to throughout the state, and so we welcome that written testimony and we want to hear from people throughout the state of Idaho."

Cannon gave several reasons for keeping in-person testimony only. He said remote testimony can complicate the committee's ability to assess facial expressions and body language in situations that require close observation,…