Boise's top police officer said democracy failed at a Senate State Affairs hearing in which he and other law enforcement leaders were blocked from speaking about a bill allowing concealed-carry on college campuses.
Boise Police Chief Mike Masterson signed up to talk about his opposition to the bill, which passed 7-2 Wednesday morning. The chief was set to argue concealed carry permit holders lack the training and qualifications needed to react correctly during a mass shooting.
Masterson pointed the finger at Sen. Curt McKenzie, the committee chairman and sponsor of the bill, for silencing him.
Only about a third of people who signed up were allowed to speak before the committee vote, although several lawmakers asked to postpone their decision until everyone had their say.
McKenzie was not immediately available for comment.