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Committee hears reappointment testimony from nominee to Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Summary
The Senate Health and Welfare Committee heard testimony from Bridal Raukenheimer of Sandpoint, who is seeking reappointment to the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Committee members asked about her vision loss and experience; the committee will vote on the reappointment the following day.
At a meeting of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, Bridal Raukenheimer of Sandpoint testified in support of her gubernatorial reappointment to the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Raukenheimer told the committee she lost vision beginning Jan. 29, 2003, and that training from the commission enabled her to keep working and remain independent. She described receiving in-home training to use assistive technologies — a talking computer and smartphone, GPS audible cues — and learning cane travel and, later, to work with a guide dog. She said those services allowed her to continue a career managing teams and that she has served on the commission for the past 18 years.
Committee members asked about the cause and effects of her vision loss. Raukenheimer said doctors have determined her optic nerves have atrophied; she described a narrowing of peripheral vision to a small central spot and said she can perceive light and some color but must rely on assistive technology for most tasks. Senator Harris asked about the medical cause; Raukenheimer described what doctors reported about capillary clotting feeding the optic nerves and subsequent atrophy. The committee also exchanged lighter remarks about skiing at Schweitzer and a pilot recommendation from a local senator.
Chair remarks indicated the committee will not vote on the reappointment during the session and that the committee will take up a vote the following day. No formal questions or objections were recorded that would prevent a vote at that time.
The commission advises on programs and services intended to help blind and visually impaired Idahoans retain or obtain employment and maintain independence. Raukenheimer emphasized that her budget and program-evaluation experience and long service on the board are assets she would continue to bring if reappointed.
The committee moved on to other agenda items after Raukenheimer finished her remarks; the formal reappointment vote was set for the committee's next meeting day.
