A $36 million tax cut for Idaho’s top earners is roaring through the Idaho Legislature, backed by Gov. Butch Otter and co-sponsored by a majority of the members of the Idaho House. The move comes even as Idaho’s reeling from three years of deep budget cuts to everything from schools to Medicaid, very few of which are being restored. “The governor has recommended that we not collect this money, that we’re collecting too much,” said Rep. Marv Hagedorn (pictured), R-Meridian, one of the bill’s 40 house co-sponsors; the Idaho House has 70 members. “It’s probably the best economic development bill we’ve seen all year,” declared House Majority Leader Mike Moyle, HB 563’s lead sponsor. The bill passed the House on a 49-20 vote today and now heads to the Senate/Betsy Russell, Eye On Boise. More here.

• All North Idaho Republicans supported the bill

Question: I can think of far better use for a budget surplus than tax cut for Idaho's top earners, can't you?