Here’s a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Human trafficking victims would be able to petition courts to erase their criminal histories under a new bill recently introduced by an Idaho Senate panel. The Idaho Press-Tribune reports (http://bit.ly/1AmpEAM ) that the…
In a bizarre bit of news from up north, the financial aid director at North Idaho College has been arrested and charged with soliciting sexual favors on Craigslist in return for student financial aid grants. Joseph Bekken was arrested today on five felony charges, including...
Gov. Butch otter, who returned to the Statehouse late last week after recovering from hip replacement surgery on Jan. 20, sent out a newsletter today saying he’s “fully recuperated.” “After a successful surgery to replace my left hip, I'm feeling better than ever and ready...
Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little wins the prize this year for shortest budget presentation to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee: A mere 12 seconds. Little said, “My office is asking for $164,300, a 4.3 percent increase. Most of it’s the roll-ups, but part of it’s the…
Here’s a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A proposal to increase how much Idaho teachers pay for background checks may be dead, despite a $55,000 deficit looming in the state education department. The House Education Committee voted 8-6 on Wednesday…
Of all the exhibits and displays that go up each year during the legislative session, today’s “Buy Idaho” show is the most extensive, showcasing Idaho products and services on the first, second and third floors of the Capitol rotunda. From candy to screen doors, from…
Gov. Butch Otter has named Kristine Sasser, legal counsel for the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, to the commission seat that opened with the retirement of Commissioner Martha Smith; the appointment is effective today. “Over the past seven years, Kristine has distinguished herself as someone who…
Here’s a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The head of Idaho's Senate Education Committee says a highly anticipated plan to boost teacher pay will be revealed soon. Republican Sen. Dean Mortimer of Idaho Falls told the Joint Finance Appropriations Committee…
With the departure yesterday of former Senate Assistant Minority Leader Elliot Werk, D-Boise, to serve on the state Tax Commission, there was an opening in the Senate minority leadership. That was officially filled this morning, with Sen. Cherie Buckner-Webb, D-Boise, moving up from caucus chair…
Legislation to consolidate Idaho’s public records law, open meeting law, and ethics in government laws into a single new title called “Transparent and Ethical Government” cleared the House State Affairs Committee this morning and headed to the full House. The two bills, HB 90 and…
The Idaho State Police requested 21 new officers next year – 15 for patrol and six investigators. Gov. Butch Otter is recommending just six, all for patrol. “ISP is not able to provide consistent 24-hour patrol coverage on our state’s highways and interstates,” ISP Director…
The Joint-Finance Appropriations Committee is hearing from germane committee chairs from both houses today, as it prepares to begin setting budgets for state agencies; a public hearing is scheduled for Friday morning. Among the highlights so far: House Transportation Chairman Joe Palmer, R-Meridian, was asked…
Here’s a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — An Idaho legislative panel is considering a bill to add people convicted of violent crimes — such as murder, kidnapping and felony domestic violence — to the state's sex offender registry. The House…
News, happenings and more from the Idaho Legislature and the state capital.
