Two weeks ago, Rep. Bob Nonini was the loudest voice in debate against Gov. Butch Otter's campaign to raise the gasoline tax. Nonini got so wound up he was admonished by the House's presiding officer to "be respectful." Last week, the House debated another fuel tax bill. But Nonini said not a word. Instead, the Coeur d'Alene Republican was in Palm Springs, Calif., on a week-long golf vacation. He registered his opposition by leaving behind a pink "pair slip," invoking a legislative rule that allows absent members to vote. In Nonini's case, Rep. Mack Shirley, R-Rexburg, agreed to pair his aye vote with Nonini's no/Dan Popkey, Idaho Statesman. More here.

H/T: SamC

Question: Should Rep. Bob Nonini have canceled vacation plans to be in Boise for the important vote on the proposed gas tax increase?