When you have covered the Statehouse since 1999, it sometimes feels like being stuck in a time loop. Some issues come back over and over, with no substantive changes in the discussion.

One of my favorites arose again recently when key lawmakers came out in support of reducing the number of state boards and commissions. Others include constant tinkering with “workforce development.” And let’s not forget the endless fight over township government.

But first — back to boards and commissions. Everyone seems to agree we have too many of these ubiquitous government panels — more than 250. These entities cost the state at least $700,000, mostly in per diem, travel and staff costs.

But as soon as you start picking and choosing which ones have to go, people who care about the topic go into fight

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