Senate Resolution No. 107, introduced by the State Affairs Committee, expresses the Idaho Senate's support for the longstanding tradition of beginning each day of the legislative session with an official time of prayer. The resolution highlights the historical significance of prayer in American legislative practices, tracing its roots back to the First Continental Congress in 1774 and the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It cites various Founding Fathers, including John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, who advocated for prayer during deliberations, emphasizing its positive impact on the legislative process.
The resolution also references Supreme Court rulings that affirm the constitutionality of opening legislative sessions with prayer, noting that this practice has been a consistent part of American society for nearly 200 years. It concludes by reaffirming the Idaho Senate's commitment to this tradition, stating that an official time of prayer will be observed each day during the Regular Session of the Idaho Legislature.