“The goal of the whole thing is to keep our citizens safer as they drive on the roads. We need to get those people off who use drugs or alcohol and then drive,” Bunderson said.

The DUI legislation now heads to the full Senate for a vote.

The Senate voted unanimously to crack down on gangs.

The "Criminal Gang Enforcement Act," as it's called, extends sentences for gang members who commit certain crimes.

Recruitment of gang members would also become a crime, and it would be a felony to supply firearms to gang members.

“We must address this problem before it spirals out of control, and this legislation gives law enforcement prosecutors and judges some additional tools in their toolbox to tackle this difficult issue,” said Sen. John McGee, R-Caldwell. McGee sponsored the bill.

The Idaho House will now take on this bill and a proposal to create minimum standards for sign language interpreters in schools.

Supporters say 60 percent of classroom interpreters are not proficient in sign language. The Senate has already approved the bill.

Also introduced Wednesday was Gov. Dirk Kempthorne's proposal to create a statewide community college system.

The plan would use $5 million in state money to begin classes in high schools and other existing buildings around the state.

Boise State University and the College of Southern Idaho have already expressed interest in beginning community college classes in the Treasure Valley.

By Adam Atchison
http://www.ktvb.com/news/localnews/stories/ktvbn-feb2206-legislative_wrap.531249db.html