All 2008 Legislative News
Idaho congressman has GOP challengers, a first since elected in 1998 Idaho U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson will face two Republican challengers in the May 27 primary: Gregory Nemitz and Jack Wayne Chappell.
Nuclear power, dairy odors on agenda at Idaho county debate The four candidates for the Jerome County Commission fielded questions on nuclear power, rules governing dairy operations and how they would respond to concerns presented by residents of the Idaho county at a debate Tuesday night.
Idaho Democratic superdelegate says he supports Obama Four of the five Democratic superdelegates in Idaho have now said they support Sen. Barack Obama as the party's presidential nominee; a fifth superdelegate will be selected during the state party's convention in mid-June.
Montana county asks USFS to halt road talks with Plum Creek The Missoula County Commission has asked the U.S. Forest Service to release documents that provide the underpinnings of discussions between the federal agency and Plum Creek Timber Co. on road easements across federal lands and to not hold any more talks with the timber company until the county has had a chance to review the paperwork, but Agriculture Undersecretary Mark Rey has already said the documents won't be released, and the county is preparing to head to court.
Idaho superdelegate says he'll decide in June Three of four of the superdelegates of the Idaho Democratic Party are backing Sen. Barack Obama to be the party's presidential nominee, but Keith Roark, the state party's chairman, said he'll make his decision in early June; a fifth superdelegate will be chosen at the party's state convention in June.
Former Idaho governor declines to cede control of his records Dirk Kempthorne left the Idaho governor's office two years ago to become secretary of the Interior, and records of his seven years in the gubernatorial office remain under lock and key.
Nation's attorneys general talk energy at Idaho summit Attorneys general do not set energy policy, but they do advise those who do, and at a summit this week in Idaho, attorneys general from across the United States will discuss trends, obstacles and solutions to the global energy situation.
Idaho fights USDA's exclusion of potatoes from WIC program Idaho potato growers concede that it's unlikely the state's congressional delegation will get the U.S. Department of Agriculture to change its policy of excluding potatoes from the list of fruits and vegetables that can be purchased using funds from the federal Women, Infants and Children program this year, but they're hoping to get the tuber on the list in the future.
Montana, Calif. congressmen team up to help sick veterans Montana U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg and California Rep. Mike Thompson are again trying to get medical coverage for veterans who were unknowingly exposed during biological and chemical weapons tests between 1963 and 1973; similar legislation sponsored by the two was passed by the House last year but failed to make it through the U.S. Senate.
Interior moves forward with rule change on guns in national parks A proposed rule change published Wednesday in the Federal Register would allow people with concealed weapons permits to carry loaded guns into national parks and wildlife refuges in states that allow firearms in parks; the rule change would allow loaded guns in Grand Teton and Yellowstone as Wyoming does not ban guns in parks.
Idaho ranchers, environmentalists testify on Owyhee Initiative At a Senate hearing Tuesday on Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo's Owyhee Initiative, ranchers and conservationists praised the bill that would designate an 807-square-mile wilderness in southwest Idaho, while opening up other lands to recreation and grazing.
Other states monitor latest effort to designate wilderness in Idaho Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo's Owyhee Initiative would designate 517,000 acres in Idaho's Owyhee County as federal wilderness, but it also removes some restrictions on other acres or sells them outright, which has drawn praise from some circles and criticism from others.
Wyoming senator sponsors bill to pay ranchers for cows killed by wolves U.S. Sen. John Barrasso's Gray Wolf Livestock Mitigation Act would create a federal grant program to match state programs in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming to compensate farmers and ranchers for livestock killed by wolves and grizzly bears. The program would also help cover the costs of fencing, guard dogs and other protections to ward off the predators.
Hunters, anglers team up to lobby for responsible energy development A coalition of hunting, fishing and wildlife groups have formed the Sportsmen United for Responsible Energy Development. The coalition released its 10-point Sportsmen's Bill of Rights, which demands continued access to public lands. This will give hunters and anglers a say in energy development on public lands, and management of those lands to benefit multiple use.
Texas inmate jumps through the hoops, gets on Idaho ballot Idaho Democrats will have three presidential candidates to choose from when they vote in the state's May 27 primary: Sen. Hillary Clinton, Sen. Barack Obama, and Keith Russell Judd, who's doing time in a Texas prison.
Presidential hopefuls still on the fence on salmon Republican presidential contender has expressed his support for maintaining the four dams on the lower Snake River in Washington in the past. But neither Democratic presidential contender has waded into the issue, despite the deep divide in the Pacific Northwest over the issue of endangered salmon, dams and water.
Idaho senator tries again on Owyhee Canyonlands wilderness bill Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo submitted a new version of his legislation that would protect 517,000 acres of Owyhee Canyonlands in the state as wilderness and would designate 315 miles of river as Wild and Scenic Rivers; the bill would also release 200,000 acres of wilderness study lands back to multiple-use management.
Second Democratic contender bows out of Idaho congressional race Larry Grant, a former Micron Technology attorney, announced Thursday that he would not seek the Democratic Party's nomination in Idaho's 1st Congressional District, leaving Walt Minnick as the Democratic presumptive nominee to challenge Republican incumbent Bill Sali.
GOP presidential hopeful Ron Paul to hold rally in Idaho April 25 By nearly all accounts, Arizona Sen. John McCain is the Republican Party's presumptive nominee as the party's presidential candidate, but Ron Paul continues his presidential run which will include a stop in Twin Falls on April 25th.
Legislature treated Idaho's Magic Valley, water issues well The Idaho Legislature has come under some criticism for failing to come up with a solution for the state's $240 million gap in transportation funding, but in the south-central portion of the state, the Legislature's action on water issues appears to balance out the lack of an accord on roads.
Former NPS directors oppose lifting of gun restrictions in parks Seven former directors of the National Park Service have gone on record against an attempt to lift gun restrictions in national parks.
Gavel drops on Idaho legislative session Idaho lawmakers celebrated the end of the 2008 legislative session Wednesday evening, but many lawmakers were disappointed that they were unable to agree on how to raise money for roads and to give local governments the authority to raise sales taxes to pay for transportation projects. Contains a sidebar on legislation passed, including the grocery sales tax rebate and funding drug-treatment programs.
Anti-wolf initiative in Idaho could return federal oversight of the species The group that is working on a ballot initiative demanding that wolves be removed from Idaho said that they're nearing the requisite number of signatures needed to get the initiative on the ballot, but they're unsure if all the folks who signed the petitions are registered voters, and the initiative, if passed, could require Idaho to once again cede control of the species to the federal government.
Idaho lawmakers kill bills to clear way for session's end A last ditch effort to raise additional funding for roads died in the House, a Senate committee denied an effort to give cities and counties the authority to raise sales taxes, with voter approval, for transportation projects, and lawmakers were set to try again this morning on a business-equipment tax change as lawmakers try to clear their desks and head out of Boise.
Idaho senators say they'll resuscitate local option tax measure Just hours after the Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee killed a measure that would give local governments authority to raise sales taxes for transportation projects, Senate leaders said they'd revive the measure, in part to give the Senate a bargaining chip in negotiations with the House on amendments to the business equipment tax.
Idaho governor signs grocery-tax relief bill into law Legislation that boosts the amount of grocery tax rebates to Idaho residents was signed into law on Monday by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter.
French company set to announce uranium plant site soon A spokesman for Areva, Inc., a French company that plans to build a uranium-enrichment plant in the United States, said it will announce the plant's location either late this week or early next week; sites under consideration include New Mexico's Lea County, near Idaho Falls in Idaho, the Tri-City area of Washington state, as well as sites in Ohio and Texas.
Idaho vehicle-emissions test bill now on Otter's desk The Idaho Legislature passed legislation that would establish vehicle-emissions testing across the state, and the measure is now on the governor's desk awaiting action.
Idaho legislative session drags on Despite an optimistic beginning, the Idaho Legislature is still in session, but with most of the major issues either resolved or dead, lawmakers predict the session will wind up mid-week.
Roads, business tax cut keep Idaho legislators in Boise Idaho lawmakers had hoped to be done with the legislative session last week, but an impasse on funds to build roads and a proposed business tax cut has extended the lawmakers' stint in Boise.
Idaho lawmakers put plan in place to replace federal timber funds Legislation is headed to Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's desk to replace federal timber payments to schools with state funds if the federal Craig-Wyden legislation isn't reauthorized.
Local-option tax measure squeaks through Idaho Senate panel vote Legislation that would give Idaho voters the authority to raise local sales taxes to pay for roads and transportation projects narrowly survived a vote in the Senate State Affairs Committee; since the measure amends Idaho's Constitution it must have the support of at least 23 of the state's 35 senators, but 10 have already said they'll vote against it.
Idaho lawmakers say no to $190M request for new prison Legislation that requested $190 million to build a new prison in Idaho was drafted but didn't get a hearing before the Legislature, and lawmakers told the head of Corrections that there is simply no time for them to even consider the request.
Idaho businessman announces congressional run Gregory Nemitz, a Republican from Twin Falls, announced Wednesday he would seek the Republican Party's nomination for Idaho's 2nd Congressional District, a seat now held by Republican Mike Simpson.
Kid-related legislation fails to gain traction in Idaho Legislature Idaho lawmakers are expected to finish their work this week and have a handful of bills to deal with, but none of those bills address efforts to improve early education opportunities for children.
Idaho congressman wants to ease path for new nuclear power plants Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson said the process to get a license to build a nuclear power plant is too rigorous and takes too long, and he wants to eliminate some of the rules to ease the way for more nuclear power plants.
Idaho Senate panel approves new primary measure Under legislation approved Tuesday by the Senate State Affairs Committee, Idaho voters could participate in a new form of presidential primary in 2010, with Democrats and Republicans voting in their own party primaries, while still giving independent voters a chance to cast their votes.
Idaho Senate panel approves business-equipment tax bill City and county officials testified that phasing out the tax businesses pay on equipment would leave a huge hole in their budgets, but the Idaho Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee narrowly approved legislation to do just that; the bill now moves on to the full Senate for action.
Idaho Legislature sends vehicle-emissions testing bill to Otter A bill that allows Idaho regulators to establish mandatory vehicle emission tests in areas where pollution is approaching federal limits was sent to Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter for action, and if he signs the bill into law, it will likely mean such tests will be instituted in Ada and Canyon counties.
Tri-City groups urge Washington governor to support Areva plant County and city governments in the Tri-City area of Washington state are urging Gov. Chris Gregoire to support efforts to land Areva Inc.'s $2 billion uranium enrichment plant; the company is also considering sites in Idaho, New Mexico, Texas and Ohio.
GAO studies moving USFS to Dept. of Interior The U.S. House Appropriations subcommittee on interior, environment and related agencies has asked the Government Accountability Office to examine moving the U.S. Forest Service, which is now part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to the Department of Interior, where it would reside with National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Lawsuit presses Bush administration on 681 species of plants, animals Bush administration officials concede that more than 280 species should be on the federal endangered species list but said that the onslaught of lawsuits has hindered efforts to proceed with the listing process; Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dale Hall told Congress last month that his agency will make listing decisions on 71 species by October, and another 21 species a year later.
Idaho Legislature long on work, short on time Idaho lawmakers would like to call it quits on this year's legislative session by the end of this week, but there's much to be done, including coming up with a compromise on improving the state's roads and hammering out a local option tax proposal.
California man says he'll run for Idaho's open U.S. Senate seat Hal Styles hasn't made the move from his home in Southern California to Idaho yet, but he's planning to do so "sometime soon" in order to run for the Republican Party's nomination for the U.S. Senate seat left open by Sen. Larry Craig's decision not to run again.
Bush administration revises effort to wean businesses off illegal labor The Bush administration's "no-match" policy that would have warned businesses that employees on their payroll were using suspect Social Security numbers and required those businesses to resolve the matter or fire the employees was put on hold by a federal judge last September; on Friday a revised plan was rolled out and if the changes satisfy the courts, employers could begin receiving such notice as early as June.
Idaho Senate puts REAL ID bill on hold On Wednesday, Idaho Senate Majority Leader Bart Davis put legislation that would have exempted the state from implementing federal guidelines for driver's licenses on hold until he had a chance to talk with Idaho National Laboratory officials on how the bill would affect that federal facility.
Idaho Senate sends grocery tax credit bill to Otter Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has indicated that he will sign into law the legislation that increases income tax rebate for groceries.
Idaho governor uses line-item veto to nix $16.8M drug-treatment program Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter used his line item veto for the first time on Thursday when he excised $16.8 million from two drug treatment bills because he said the programs funded hadn't proved to be effective.
Idaho lawmakers, governor push for new, higher dams Idaho lawmakers are pushing the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to study a long-proposed dam on the Weiser River, to update studies on the Teton Dam, which burst in 1976, and to consider raising the height of the Minidoka Dam on the Snake River to increase the capacity of that dam's reservoir.
Idaho Senate passes bill to roll back benefits for retired state workers Under a bill approved Thursday by the Idaho Senate, medical benefits for the 3,000 retired state workers will be capped at about $1,800 annually, and would eliminate future medical benefits for current workers when they retire.
Former Idaho elk rancher to run as an independent for U.S. Senate Rex Rammell, a former elk rancher in Idaho had previously announced that he would run for the Republican Party's nomination for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Sen. Larry Craig, who is not seeking re-election; but with what Rammell said was the GOP's "anointment" of Lt. Gov. Jim Risch as the party's nominee, Rammel has decided to run for the seat as an independent candidate.
Idaho Senate panel approves grocery tax relief measure The Idaho House has already approved legislation that gradually increases the amount of a rebate given to low-income Idaho families and senior citizens to offset the sales tax on groceries, and on Tuesday, the Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee approved the measure to send it along to the full Senate for a vote.
Idaho Senate panel kills bill that targeted companies using illegal labor On Monday, the Idaho Senate State Affairs Committee killed legislation fashioned after an Arizona law that imposes sanctions on employers who knowingly hire illegal workers; similar legislation failed in an Idaho House committee last month.
Idaho Senate passes duo of tax breaks for uranium plant In an effort to lure a French company to build a uranium-enrichment plant in the state, the Idaho Senate passed legislation Monday that extends a sales tax exemption to cover production equipment that handles nuclear fuel and caps property tax valuations on the plant at $400 million if Areva Inc. invests $1 billion in the plant over the next seven years.
Idaho House panel OKs stiffer penalties for fisheries destruction In response to the destruction of kokanee salmon spawning beds by a builder last spring, the Idaho Senate passed legislation to increase the amount of fines imposed on developers who degrade water quality in lakes or damage fisheries with unlawful construction and the Idaho House Resources and Conservation Committee approved the legislation on Monday.
Latest sales tax report shows spending down in Idaho The Idaho State Tax Commission reported gross receipts were down 0.79 percent in February, the largest decline in tax revenue in about 20 years.
Idaho bill gives Ag Dept. authority to fight quagga mussels The House State Affairs Committee sent a bill directly to the floor of the Idaho House that would give the state Department of Agriculture authority to enact measures to curb quagga mussels, including setting up stations to examine boats for the invasive species.
Environmental groups assail plan for Idaho's roadless areas A new report issued by the Center for Biological Diversity and other environmental groups examines how management of Idaho's 9.3 million acres of federal national forest lands would change if the Bush administration adopts Idaho's plan.
GOP amendment causes rift in Idaho effort to pass local option tax An effort to give local governments the authority to impose a tax to pay for transit and transportation projects in Idaho stalled after Republican lawmakers, including the governor, introduced a constitutional amendment that would require such local sales taxes be approved by a two-thirds majority of voters in the city or county seeking the tax.
Idaho House passes bill forbidding DOT from implementing REAL ID Legislation passed last week by the Idaho House specifically forbids the state's Department of Transportation from implementing the federal REAL ID Act, which mandates nationwide requirements for states' driver's licenses and requires states to link their license databases to a national database; the legislation must still pass the Idaho Senate and be signed into law by the governor to take effect.
Idaho Senate panel advances 2 uranium-plant incentive bills The Idaho Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee approved legislation that would cap the taxable value of a proposed uranium-enrichment plant at $400 million, and approved a second bill that extended a sales tax exemption for business equipment used to handle nuclear fuel; the full Senate will now vote on the legislation drafted to entice a French company to build the plant in eastern Idaho.
Idaho lawmakers submit more modest vehicle-registration fee increases Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter dropped his plan to raise vehicle-registration fees to raise more than $202 million over the next three years after House lawmakers said it was too expensive, and now legislators are presenting a package of smaller registration fee increases that would raise about $40 million each year.
Idaho lawmakers consider plan to buy fish farm to ease city's water woes The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee approved a plan to provide $5 million in funding, plus a $10-million state loan, to help Twin Falls buy a fish farm along the Snake river which would allow the Idaho city to use its share of the water allocation to dilute its drinking water to lower arsenic levels.
Idaho legislative panel OKs $400K to study rebuilding Teton Dam The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee gave preliminary approval to two dam-related projects in Idaho on Tuesday: $400,000 to study resurrecting the Teton Dam that failed in 1976, and $1.4 million to study enlarging the Minidoka Dam on the Snake River.
Idaho House panel sends infrastructure bill to the full House Legislation that would allow developers to use bond revenue for trails, water and sewage systems, roads and bridges, fire and police buildings and parks both inside and outside developments was narrowly approved by the Idaho House Revenue and Taxation Committee, and now moves to the full House for a vote.
Bill to impose higher fines on unlicensed outfitters heads to Idaho governor Legislation that imposes higher fines on unlicensed outfitters in Idaho and sets jail time for those convicted was passed by both the House and Senate.
Idaho lawmakers nix climate-change bill, pull Ranch, Farm Protection Act Despite two years' effort to get stakeholders on board to pass the Idaho Ranch, Farm and Forest Protection Act, which would give tax credits to landowners who put a conservation easement on their land for 30 years, House GOP leaders pulled the bill after objections to the tax credits and the easement period were voiced.
Idaho governor says constitutional route may be best for local tax option Treasure Valley proponents of a plan to give local governments the option of passing a local tax to pay for mass transit projects weren't thrilled to hear Idaho Gov. C. L. "Butch" Otter's opinion that he believes a constitutional amendment may be the only way to give local governments that tax option.
Idaho governor withdraws plan to increase vehicle-registration fees Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter sent a scathing letter to lawmakers, criticizing them for not acting on his package of bills designed to raise funding for road projects.
Idaho House approves incentives for uranium-enrichment plant The Idaho Senate will now vote on a package of tax incentives for a proposed uranium-enrichment facility that a French company wants to build near Idaho Falls.
Idaho House panel OKs bill to let state set up vehicle emissions testing Concerns about air quality in Idaho's Treasure Valley prompted legislation approved by the House Energy and Environment Committee that would allow the state to set up vehicle emission test stations in areas where air pollution levels are approaching federal limits.
Trio of bills address concerns of N. Idaho residents on water efforts Northern Idaho lawmakers are successfully rowing a trio of bills through the Legislature that make water adjudication efforts in their part of the state voluntary for domestic and stock-water rights holders, cut fees in half and remove Kootenai-Moyie River Basin from the state's adjudication effort.
Idaho House sends conservation tax credit bill on to the full House The House Revenue and Taxation Committee approved the Idaho Ranch, Farm and Forest Protection Act, which would provide up to $3 million annually in income tax credits to landowners who protect their land from development for more than 30 years; the bill now moves to the full House for consideration.
Group gives Utah government highest rating The Pew Center on States Government Performance Project for 2008 gave Utah an A- for its efforts on managing information, people, money and infrastructure; Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico and Wyoming each got a B-; and Colorado, Montana and Nevada earned a C+.
Idaho Senate advances bill on climate change Three Republican members of the Idaho Senate Resources and Conservation Committee questioned the need for a resolution that asks the Office of Energy Resources and Department of Environmental Quality to come up with recommendations on regulating greenhouse-gas emissions, should the state ever wade into that arena of regulation, and to put a high priority on developing conservation and renewable resources in Idaho.
Idaho Senate to take up public lands, energy bill The Idaho Senate Resources and Environment Committee will take up legislation that would open up the state's endowment lands to renewable energy projects.
Legislation would put BLM areas on same level with NPS, USFS lands Environmental groups and U.S. Bureau of Land Management officials are working together on federal legislation that would permanently designate 26 million acres of land in the Western United States under management by the BLM for conservation.
Idaho Senate panel approves $20-million aquifer plan The Idaho House has already approved a bill that would allocate $20 million to study, monitor and develop management plans for 10 aquifers in the state, and on Wednesday the Senate Resources and Environment Committee unanimously approved the bill.
GOP House leaders introduce 3 bills to raise revenue for Idaho roads The day after Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter submitted his proposals on raising revenue to improve roads, Republican House leaders submitted three of their own that included shifting $22 million in sales tax revenue from tires, batteries and car accessories to highway funding, putting limits on bonds for "Connecting Idaho" projects, and requiring legislative approval for such projects.
Bill protects rights of Idaho colleges to ban weapons on campuses The Senate State Affairs Committee approved a bill that prevents local governments from enacting rules on firearms, but a provision that required the State Board of Education and the Board of Regents at the University of Idaho to set rules on weapons on campuses was stripped from the bill, keeping authority for such decisions in the hands of state college officials.
Idaho governor pitches $202 million road plan Gov. Butch Otter is proposing a series of fee increases to raise $202 million annually by 2011 to maintain Idaho's roads, including a 4 percent tax on rental cars, an increase of fees on commercial truckers, and a rise in registration fees for personal vehicles to a flat annual fee of $150.
Idaho Senate panel advances teachers' pay plan along Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's 11th hour show of support for a $20 million pay-for-performance plan for public school teachers helped get the bill through the Senate Education Committee on a 5-4 vote Tuesday.
Interior Department says it will review ban on guns in parks On Friday, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne announced that his department will review gun laws on lands under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service and draw up new rules by April 30 for public comment, a move supported by 50 senators, including those from Wyoming and Montana, but opposed by park rangers, retirees and conservation groups.
Idaho, farmers, environmentalists reach new accord on field burning The Idaho Legislature must approve a deal hammered out between the state, farmers and environmental groups over field burning that gives the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality authority over burning and imposes a new set of strict regulations on the process.
Idaho House debates bill to entice uranium-enrichment plant to Idaho A French company said it will bring its $2-billion uranium enrichment plant to Idaho if the state can come up with the necessary package of tax incentives, and on Monday the House Revenue and Taxation Committee began debate on the incentive package.
Idaho House sends tribal fuel tax accord to Otter The Idaho House approved fuel tax agreements with the Coeur d'Alene, Nez Perce, Kootenai and Shoshone-Bannock tribes that allow the tribes to collect taxes on gas equal to the state's 25-cent-per-gallon tax, and require the tribes to raise their fuel tax rates if the state raises its rate.
Majority of Idahoans want sales tax off groceries According to the latest public survey by Boise State University, 69 percent of Idahoans surveyed want the sales tax removed from groceries, and most lawmakers do too; however, the tax brings in nearly $200 million in revenue each year, and the governor, as well as Democratic and Republican lawmakers, all have their own opinions about how to handle the loss of revenue from the existing tax.
Idaho dairies hire lawmaker to advise them on immigration issues The Idaho Dairymen's Association is forming a coalition to work on immigration reform issues. The association has hired state Rep. Raul Labrador, an immigration attorney, to advise the coalition on the issues.
Idaho schools chief whacks teacher's pay plan by two-thirds Schools Superintendent Tom Luna presented his new teacher's pay plan to Idaho lawmakers on Tuesday, cutting the original $60 million to $20.5 million, and eliminating a controversial provision that would have provided bonuses to teachers in exchange for giving up their contracts.
Idaho governor's top aide says she's stepping down Idaho Gov. Butch Otter's top aide on health and welfare issues announced that she would leave office on Friday to be with her infant grandson who is scheduled for surgery to remove a birthmark.
Idaho bill would open federal lands for renewable-energy projects When Idaho was granted statehood in 1890, the state was granted 2.1 million acres of public school endowment lands, and state Rep. Eric Anderson, R-Priest Lake, wants to open up some of those lands for renewable energy projects.
Montana gay community outraged by congressman's prank On a congressional trip to the Middle East last month, U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg put together an "Idaho Travel Package" for Idaho Rep. Mike Simpson that included a stuffed sheep with gloves attached to it, a Village People CD, and a T-shirt that reads, "My senator may not be gay, but my governor is Butch"; the Montana Human Rights Network and the Western Montana Gay and Lesbian Community Center want the Montana Republican to apologize for the offensive prank.
Fifth Idaho Republican announces run for U.S. Senate Iraq War veteran Scott Syme announced that he would challenge the four other Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Idaho Sen. Larry Craig, who is not seeking re-election.
Bill would make developers foot the bill for affordable housing in Idaho Idaho's resort towns are struggling to keep year-round workers living in their towns, and legislation under consideration in the Gem State would make developers pay a fee to help build affordable housing.
Idaho bill would create elk farm panel Sen. Brent Hill, R-Rexburg, said his bill to create a Domestic Cervidae Council will help promote the state's elk-farm industry and fend off attacks against the industry from sportsmen's groups and other Idaho lawmakers.
Geothermal company asks Idaho Legislature for tax break Idaho lawmakers said they would likely debate next week the request of U.S. Geothermal Inc. to give geothermal power producers the same tax breaks wind power producers in the state get.
Washington congressman: USFS budget an 'unmitigated disaster' A group of Democratic federal lawmakers said President Bush's budget plan for the Interior Department could lead to the loss of thousands of jobs and sharply reduce road and trail maintenance work, land acquisition and cooperative projects with states; they did, however, applaud the proposed $148 million increase in wildfire fighting funds.
U.S. Senate Ethics Committee rebukes Idaho senator Idaho Sen. Larry Craig was publicly admonished by the U.S. Senate Ethics Committee for his arrest and guilty plea to an incident last summer in a Minneapolis airport men's room, but the Committee stopped short of recommending a more serious punishment, such as expulsion.
Former, current Idaho state workers criticize Otter's benefits plan Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's proposal to raise the pay of state workers by 5 percent but reduce benefits paid for those workers from 78 to 70 percent over the next five years is drawing fire from both former and current state workers, but Department of Administration Director Mike Gwartney said the state cannot afford to maintain the status quo.
Idaho schools chief scales back teachers' pay plan Idaho Schools Superintendent Tom Luna cut down his teachers' pay proposal to $30 million, about half of what his original proposal would have cost, and lawmakers said they anticipated taking up a new bill that embodies Luna's changes.
Idaho's newest rest area is a truck stop Idaho Department of Transportation officials said the public-private partnership used to create the state's newest official rest area in a Flying J truck stop will be used in all future rest area designations, and is part of the department's effort to cut expenses.
Idaho group wants public to get a say on managing bighorn sheep The Idaho Conservation League asked Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter to get the public involved in crafting a bighorn sheep management plan, and said that the governor's top-down approach to developing such a plan is an invitation for more lawsuits.
Idaho AG says nuclear-power siting initiative may not pass muster Twin Falls podiatrist Peter Rickards said the Idaho Attorney General's opinion on Rickards' proposed ballot initiative that would give voters a final say on where nuclear power plants could be built won't keep him from continuing to get the measure on November's ballot.
Idaho lawmakers take aim again at shooter-bull operations Sen. David Langhorst, D-Boise, admitted his bill to ban canned hunts in Idaho would again fail, but said he submitted the legislation to keep debate about the issue alive.
Idaho Republicans disappointed with Romney's decision Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney raised more money in Idaho than any other presidential candidate, and his decision to suspend his campaign disappointed many in the state.
Flagging revenues may tank Idaho governor's pay-raise plan Idaho revenues fell about $38.5 million below expectations in January, and members of the Legislature's budget committee said that shortfall would certainly stall Gov. Butch "C.L." Otter's proposed raises for state employees, as well as Schools Superintendent Tom Luna's plan to raise teachers' salaries.
Gingrich's book tour makes a stop in Idaho Former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Newt Gingrich has written a book on market-based conservation efforts, and he was in Boise on Wednesday to tout A Contract with the Earth.
County officials in N. Idaho ask Legislature to slow down water process County commissioners from Idaho's northern counties testified before the state Senate Resources Committee that many of the residents in their counties are distrustful of the state's effort to adjudicate water rights and asked that those efforts be scaled back, slowed down or ended.
Idaho bill would allow concealed weapons on college campuses Idaho state senators are considering legislation that would strip community college and university officials of their authority to ban concealed weapons on their campuses.
Mining companies sponsor bill to change Idaho law on groundwater Last year, Idaho lawmakers and regulators began working on an update to the Idaho Groundwater Quality Plan passed in 1992 designed to protect aquifer quality while still allowing mining activity in the state, but those efforts failed to elicit new rules; now the State Senate is debating legislation sponsored by the Idaho Mining Association that would allow groundwater degradation directly under mining sites as long as the water doesn't migrate from those sites.
Idaho bill would compensate ranchers for livestock killed by grizzlies There are current programs in place in Idaho that compensate ranchers for livestock killed by black bears and mountain lions, and now lawmakers are considering legislation that would compensate ranchers for livestock killed by grizzly bears.
Idaho House votes to extend debate on land-conservation bill The House Revenue and Taxation Committee voted to further debate the Idaho Ranch, Farm and Forest Protection Act, which would give tax credits to landowners that put conservation easements on their land to keep them from being development.
Mountain West voters give nods to Obama, Romney Democrats in Idaho, Colorado and Utah picked Barack Obama as their presidential choice, and Republicans in Montana, Colorado and Utah said Mitt Romney was theirs. A good roundup of results from the Mountain West.
Proposed federal budget contains little funding for parks projects A representative for the National Parks Conservation Association said president Bush's proposed federal budget has $161 million in new money for national parks operations, but slashes funding for construction projects by $46 million and contains cuts in funding for historic preservation programs and for national parks' education and recreation programs as well.
Idaho Democrats to vote today Camas County will not take part in today's Democratic presidential caucuses in Idaho, but party officials predict record turnout in the other 43 counties; Idaho Republicans will hold their nominating contests on May 27.
Energy expert: Nuclear power a good fit for Idaho Jim Yost, one of Idaho's most experienced energy experts and recently appointed by the governor to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, told members of the Senate Resource and Conservation Committee that nuclear power would be OK for Idaho but that a site for such a plant would have to be carefully chosen; he also said he supports development of the state's renewable energy resources, and that he agrees with Gov. Otter's opposition to any effort to breach dams in the state.
Idaho House panel kills measure to increase grocery-tax relief Members of the House Revenue and Taxation Committee that killed a measure to increase the amount of grocery-tax relief said that the legislation did too little to help Idahoans, and vowed they would continue their effort to get sales taxes on groceries removed entirely.
President's budget proposal cuts funding for USFS, BLM, BIA The Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee called President Bush's proposed budget for 2009 a "Groundhog Day" budget, containing the same budget reductions for federal land agencies that have been repeatedly rejected by Congress and the American people.
Republican lawmakers lay out economic scenarios for Idaho The Republican chairs of the Idaho House and Senate Finance Committees divided the budget for the fiscal year 2009 into two parts: one for ongoing expenditures and the other for one-time surplus spending.
Independent Western voters make Tuesday's contests tough to call Issue-focused voters who are likely to cross party lines when deciding whom to vote for in the presidential contests in Idaho, Montana, Utah and Colorado make Tuesday's vote a tough one to call.
In Idaho, Andrus endorses Obama; Church endorses Clinton Democratic presidential contenders picked up key endorsements in Idaho on Thursday, with former Idaho Gov. Cecil Andrus supporting Sen. Barack Obama, saying the Illinois senator reminded him of John F. Kennedy, while Bethine Church, widow of former Idaho Democratic Sen. Frank Church, said she supported Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Idaho lawmakers want Education board to explain $1.4M deficit All eight members of the State Board of Education will be expected to explain to the Senate Education Committee just why the board ran a $1.4 million deficit in 2007.
French firm woos Idaho as possible site for uranium-enrichment plant A nuclear-energy company controlled by the French government has hired a lobbyist to work with Idaho officials; Idaho lawmakers said they're already working on an incentive package to encourage Areva Inc. to build a new uranium-enrichment plant near the Idaho National Laboratory nuclear reservation near Idaho Falls.
Idaho lawmakers pitch different plans on grocery sales tax Idaho is one of 15 states that still make residents pay sales tax on groceries, and state lawmakers are considering a proposal, not supported by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter, to raise rebates given to low-income residents; Democratic lawmakers would like to phase out the sales tax on groceries altogether, and Republican legislators said they have an alternate proposal as well, but neither will be considered until the current legislation is fully vetted by the Revenue and Taxation Committee.
Debate about grocery-tax bill begins anew today in Idaho House Majority Caucus Chair Ken Roberts, R-Donnelly, said the debate about providing a grocery-tax rebate to low-income Idahoans will be different this year, as Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has already signed off on this year's version of the legislation.
New rules for border crossing take effect Thursday U.S. citizens will be required to carry proof of citizenship when crossing the nation's northern and southern borders on Thursday.
Idaho committee advances $20-million bill for aquifer study On Tuesday, the House Resources and Conservation Committee approved Gov. Butch Otter's $20-million proposal to study and develop management plans for all of Idaho's aquifers that includes $3 million to study the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer; the measure now moves on to a vote before the full House.
Obama plans campaign stop in Idaho's capital city on Saturday Idaho Democratic Party officials said they don't know the full details of presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama's planned stop in Boise on Saturday, but they did confirm that any appearance Obama makes will be open to the public.
Medical condition sidelines Idaho Senate Minority leader Idaho Senate Minority Leader Clint Stennett, D-Ketchum, has asked Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter to appoint former Sun Valley Mayor Jon Thorson to fill in for Stennett while he undergoes treatment for a medical condition.
Obama targets Utah, Idaho, other GOP-leaning states Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama is on the hunt for delegates in states that have traditionally voted Republican, such as Utah, Idaho, Kansas and Alaska.
Senate Ethics Committee mum about progress of Craig investigation The U.S. Senate's Ethics Committee's investigation into Idaho Sen. Larry Craig's controversial arrest last summer is continuing, but members of the committee won't say how the process is going nor when it will be complete.
Medicaid director asks Idaho lawmakers to OK $1.4B proposal Idaho's three-pronged Medicaid project launched two years ago that divided recipients into three groups with health care plans crafted to fit their needs has thus far been a success, and on Thursday the director of the state's Medicaid program asked lawmakers to approve a $1.4-billion budget, with Idaho kicking in one-third of that amount.
Senate takes up reform of 1872 mining law U.S. senators began debate on reform of the 1872 hard-rock mining law on Thursday, with a general consensus that the House-passed version went too far by extending new royalty rates to mines already in operation.
Idaho schools chief asks lawmakers to add $4M for math instruction State schools Superintendent Tom Luna's Idaho Math Initiative needs $4 million to reverse the downward trend of students' scores in math that occurs between the 3rd and 10th grades.
Idaho lawmakers not sold on Otter's private-prison plan Idaho law does not allow corporations to build for-profit prisons in the state, but Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter wants to change that law because he said it's better to let companies bear up the upfront costs rather than make the state sell bonds to finance construction of prisons; legislators remain skeptical about the proposal.
Bill to fund study of Idaho aquifers sails over first hurdle The House Resources and Conservation Committee agreed Wednesday to consider legislation that would provide $20 million to study Idaho's aquifers, an important first step in the legislative process.
Senate leader says Idaho Legislature has too many interim committees Senate President Pro Tempore Robert Geddes said the Idaho Legislature's use of interim committees - groups formed to study unresolved issues - has increased beyond usefulness and will work this session to rein in the practice.
Idaho lawmakers nip this year's Internet tax effort in the bud Idaho lawmakers again voted down an attempt to impose a state sales tax on Internet and catalog sales to out-of-state customers.
Wyoming senator says USFWS should go forward on wolf delisting Responding to a letter sent by five members of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee to Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne asking that the decision to delist wolves be delayed, Wyoming U.S. Sen. John Barrasso urged federal officials to disregard the letter, saying that none of the five congressmen live in the states most affected by the decision, and are unaware of the impact the species has had in Idaho, Wyoming and Montana.
Idaho water officials pitch aquifer modeling plan to Legislature The Idaho Department of Water Resources and Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter want to develop models for 10 of the state's aquifers, which will give them an idea how those aquifers operate and provide managers with more accurate estimates on water levels, but the $20 million initial outlay of cash concerned some lawmakers.
Another GOP candidate announces run for Idaho U.S. Senate seat Kent Marmon, a former Caldwell city councilman, said he was angry about the Idaho Republican Party's apparent endorsement of Lt. Gov. Jim Risch as the candidate to replace retiring Sen. Larry Craig, and announced he would seek the GOP's nomination for U.S. Senate, joining five other candidates for the nomination; former Congressman Larry LaRocco is the only Democrat who has announced a run for the seat.
Idaho governor's budget spends surplus on one-time projects Idaho lawmakers said they agreed with Gov. C. L. "Butch" Otter's proposed budget plan increases spending by 11 percent, some of which goes to one-time projects, such as the $70 million proposed to build a new mental health center.
Idaho commerce director envisions a post-Micron economy Micron Technology is Idaho's largest private employer, and the company's worsening financial condition has the state's commerce director urging lawmakers to consider two budgets: one with Micron in the picture, and the other without.
Otter asks Idaho lawmakers to approve tribal fuel tax accords Despite some question about whether legislative approval of the deal Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter struck with four tribes on fuel taxes is even necessary, the Idaho governor submitted the agreements to lawmakers to get their consent.
Idaho governor moves to disband tech advisory council The Governor's Science and Technology Advisory Council was founded in 1999 by then-Gov. Dirk Kempthorne but since its inception, recommendations by the board have failed to find financial support in the Legislature, and Gov. C. L. Otter said legislation will be submitted this session to disband the council.
Idaho governor, lawmakers launch effort to beef up wildfire effort After a joint budget panel approved $21.7 million in funding to pay for statewide suppression efforts during the destructive 2007 wildfire season, Idaho Gov. C.L. Otter proposed reserving $10 million in the Governor's Emergency Fund for fighting wildfires this year.
Ag official warns Idaho lawmakers 'invasive mussels are on their way' Last year, Idaho lawmakers approved $4 million to fight invasive plants, primarily milfoil in the state, and this year agriculture officials reported that Quagga mussels, a prolific aquatic invader, pose a threat to the state's irrigation system.
Lawmakers sit quietly while Idaho gov pitches reading plan During his "State of the State" speech on Monday, Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter paused for applause after mentioning a $335,000 proposal to expand Idaho's program to encourage younger children to read, but the proposal generated no response from lawmakers, who were either unfamiliar with the program or disappointed about Otter's support for similar early-education programs.
Idaho businessman announces U.S. Senate run Northern Idaho businessman Richard Phenneger announced he would seek the Republican Party's nomination for the state's open U.S. Senate seat; Republican Jim Risch and Democrat Larry LaRocco are also running for the seat.
Idaho governor's budget contains $34M in water projects In his annual State of the State speech, Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter mentioned a $20 million study on the state's aquifer, but he did not say anything about two other budget items on water: a $9-million proposal to pay farmers to leave land follow to boost irrigation water supplies, and a $5-million proposal for water conservation projects, all of which will raise water's profile during the current legislative session.
Idaho senator says elements of disorderly conduct charge not met Sen. Larry Craig's attorneys are disputing that the behavior engaged in by the Idaho senator in a Minneapolis airport bathroom that led to the senator's guilty plea to a disorderly conduct charge did not meet the elements of such a charge, and asked the court to allow the senator to withdraw his plea.
Idaho governor touches on water, road issues during annual speech Idaho Gov. "C. L." Butch Otter laid out his spending initiatives during his State of the State speech on Monday, which included $50 million for college scholarships, $20 million to study aquifers around the state, and support for a plan to refund sales taxes paid by lower-income Idahoans on food.
Idaho governor's State of State speech leaves some thirsting for more Magic Valley lawmakers said they were disappointed that Idaho Gov. C. L. "Butch" Otter's State of the State Speech, which glittered with remarks about Treasure Valley issues, had just one reference to water issues in the Magic Valley.
Conservation easements, energy on Idaho lawmakers' agenda The 2008 legislative session kicks off today in Idaho, with legislation designed to give landowners that protect their farmland and open space the leading environmental issue. The Idaho Statesman offers a 2008 Guide to the Legislature.
Rapid changes in Idaho increase friction between lawmakers Nearly 40 percent of Idahoans live in Ada and Canyon counties, yet area lawmakers hold just four of the top 14 legislative leadership positions, and the lawmakers from the two counties rarely see eye-to-eye on issues. An analysis.
Idaho lawmaker, schools official square off on teachers' pay plan Rep. Shirley Ringo, D-Moscow, made it plain to Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna that she believes Luna's $60-million plan to raise the pay of teachers across the state was simply too expensive, and that wrangling over the plan will distract lawmakers from more important issues this legislative session that commences on Monday.
Roads, transit on Idaho lawmakers' minds as they head to Boise Idaho lawmakers said local transit taxes and higher taxes targeted specifically for paying for road projects will be on their agenda this legislative session.
Economist: Price cuts only option to heal Idaho housing market Members of an Idaho legislative committee were told by a Wells Fargo economist that price cuts of up to 15 percent may be needed to clear the inventory of thousands of unsold homes in the Treasure Valley.
Idaho governor issues fuel-efficiency mandate for state vehicles Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's executive order mandates that the state limit future purchases of sports utility vehicles, reduce fuel consumption by driving more fuel-efficient vehicles, and that state employees cut back on the amount of miles they drive each year.
Idaho lawmakers face slate of energy issues this session Idaho lawmakers will take up a number of energy-related bills this upcoming session, such as who should decide where nuclear power plants can be built, if the state should provide energy credits and if the state should set renewable energy requirements for utilities.
Idaho senator's Nez Perce water rider cut from federal spending bill Democratic Sens. Maria Cantwell of Washington and Dianne Feinstein of California successfully stripped Idaho Sen. Larry Craig's rider from a federal spending bill that would have required immediate implementation of a federal plan to manage Northwestern dams, ruled illegal by U.S. District Judge James Redden, but integral to Idaho's agreement with the Nez Perce Tribe over water rights.
Study: Utah's new flat tax rate will lower taxes for 90 percent of Utahns A University of Utah study said Utah's new 5 percent flat income-tax rate that kicks in on Jan. 1 means that the state will no longer have the least-progressive income tax in the Mountain West states, a ranking it used to share with Colorado.
Federal spending bill stuffed with 9,000 earmarks There is bipartisan agreement that the $555-billion spending bill passed by Congress would not have passed had it not been for lawmakers' pet projects, about 9,000 - or roughly 16 for each member of Congress - contained within the bill, including $7.5 million to stage the Special Olympics in Idaho. An analysis.
U.S. House passes massive funding bill Included in the $485 billion spending bill approved by the U.S. House on Monday was a provision for $7.5 million for the Special Olympics Winter Games planned in Idaho in 2009. Contains a sidebar detailing other Idaho projects funded by the bill.
Idaho, Montana, Wyoming senators want gun ban in parks lifted Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo is leading an effort to allow gun owners to carry their guns into all national parks and wildlife refuges, an initiative that is supported by Wyoming Sens. John Barrasso and Mike Enzi, and Montana Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester.
Senate cuts funding for rural schools from energy bill Sen. Max Baucus' provision in the energy bill that would have provided $93.3 million to Montana schools and rural communities and $350 million for one year's funding of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program that provides local governments tax revenue for federal lands in their counties was stripped from the energy bill.
Idaho senators block confirmation of nominee to head ATF Idaho Sens. Mike Crapo and Larry Craig said their concerns that the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives had become too aggressive on gun laws, and placed separate holds on President Bush's nominee to head up the federal bureau.
Idaho's congressional delegation divided over federal recreation fees U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo has teamed up with Montana Sen. Max Baucus on legislation designed to repeal the 2004 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act because the Idaho Republican said the fees are double taxation on American taxpayers; U.S. Sen. Larry Craig has also opposed such fees in recent years, but both current Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson and former Rep. C.L. "Butch" Otter support the fees.
Montana, Idaho senators sponsor bill to end recreation fees U.S. Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., and Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, are sponsoring legislation to revoke federal land agencies' authority provided by the Federal Lands Recreational Enhancement Act passed in 2004 to impose new access fees, and would reinstate the National Parks Pass system.
Huntsman: Congress' inaction forces Western governors' hands Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. and Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano appeared on National Public Radio's "Diane Rehm Show" Thursday to discuss how Western governors are reaching across party lines to address issues such as immigration, water, growth and energy.
Idaho governor wants to raise taxes on vehicles to pave roads In an interview with the Associated Press, Idaho Gov. C. L. "Butch" Otter said he'll ask the Legislature to raise vehicle registration fees to increase funding for road construction, and that he'll try again to get grocery-tax relief passed.
Funds for Yellowstone Park may fall victim to budget battle The National Park Service's effort to line up private donations to help fund improvements in Yellowstone National Park may come to naught, as those donations depend on matching federal funds, but the measure that would appropriate that funding is currently tangled up in the ongoing budget battle between Congress and the president.
Idaho senator shrugs off new allegations as 'tabloid journalism' Idaho Sen. Larry Craig dismissed Sunday's Idaho Statesman article that contained detailed information about encounters with four men as "tabloid journalism," and vowed to continue to carry out his duties as senator, which include casting a ballot in the Republican caucus leadership elections and flying to Indonesia to participate in the United Nations summit on global warming.
Four men report encounters with Idaho senator Four men, who said they were offended by Idaho Sen. Larry Craig's denials that he was gay, have come forward and detailed their encounters with the Idaho Republican.
Idaho senator: Men's stories are 'completely false' Idaho Sen. Larry Craig issued a statement to CNN and other news organizations that the statements of men who said they had sexual encounters with the Idaho Republican are "completely false." |
Idaho News MediaNewspapersIdaho Statesman (Boise)South Idaho Press (Burley) Challis Messenger Coeur d' Alene Press Sho-Ban News (Fort Hall) Wood River Journal (Hailey) Idaho Falls Post Register Island Park News Idaho Mountain Express (Ketchum) Latah Eagle (Latah County) Lewiston Morning Tribune Montpelier News-Examiner Moscow-Pullman Daily News Idaho Press Tribune (Nampa) Idaho State Journal (Pocatello) The Standard Journal (Rexburg) Spokesman-Review (Spokane and North Idaho) Twin Falls Times-News Idaho Unidos Boise Weekly Broadcast MediaIdaho Public Television (PBS)KBCI TV-2 (CBS - Boise) KIVI TV-6 (ABC - Boise) KTVB TV-7 (NBC - Boise) KTRV TV-12 (Fox - Boise) KIDK TV-3 (CBS - Idaho Falls) KIFI TV-8 (ABC - Idaho Falls) KLEW TV-3 (CBS - Lewiston) KPVI TV-6 (NBC - Pocatello) Northwest Public Radio Boise State Radio BlogsEye on Boise (Betsy Russell of the Idaho Spokesman-Review)ID Quicktakes (Kevin Richert of the Idaho Statesman) Ridenbaugh Press (Randy Stapilus; covers politics in ID, OR, and WA) The Common Interest ("an organization of common citizens — Republicans, Democrats, and Independents" - founded by Keith Allred) |
