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B.J. Stinger appears remotely for reappointment to Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Summary
B.J. Stinger told the committee he seeks reappointment to the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, described a family history with the commission and his master's degree in social work; the committee will vote on his reappointment at the next meeting.
B.J. Stinger appeared remotely before the committee as a gubernatorial reappointment candidate for the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Stinger said his family has a long connection to the commission and that his grandfather was a client. He described a personal and familial understanding of visual impairment and said that background motivates his service. He told the committee he earned a master’s degree in social work in May 2023 and that he appreciates the commission’s work overseeing services and policy for blind and visually impaired Idahoans.
When asked about the board’s responsibilities, Stinger said the commission meets about once a quarter, reviews departmental reports, oversees policy and procedure changes, and provides oversight of the agency administrator. He said his experience and family history make him a good fit.
Senator Wintrow asked Stinger what the public should understand when working with people who have visual impairments; Stinger recommended simple offers of assistance, using clear spatial language instead of vague expressions like "over there," and showing compassion and empathy.
The committee did not vote on the reappointment in this hearing; the chair said the committee will vote on the nomination at the next day’s meeting.
