House panel OKs Arts Commission plan to engage in art therapy

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Lawmakers on a House panel on Monday approved changes to rules for the Idaho Commission on the Arts allowing the agency to participate in art therapy for wounded veterans, stroke victims and others.

The House State Affairs Committee voted to approve the substantial change that deletes from the rules a prohibition on the commission participating in such activities.

The change is part of massive cuts to the state's administrative rules book undertaken by Republican Gov. Brad Little last year.

Arts Commission Executive Director Michael Faison told lawmakers that art therapy has been proven to have substantial benefits.

Faison, after the committee meeting, said he's waiting for the Legislature to approve the rules before implementing a program for art therapy.

Both the House and Senate will have to approve the changes.