Sen. Elliot Werk, D-Boise, just announced to the Senate that he'll be resigning from the Senate at the end of today's session, to accept an appointment from Gov. Butch Otter to the Idaho State Tax Commission. His voice breaking, Werk said, "I will miss you all very much." Werk will replace former Tax Commissioner David Langhorst in a Democratic seat on the commission, which must be divided by party. You can read Otter's full announcement here about the appointment. In recognition of Werk's service, he presided over the Senate for part of today's session, before the debate on the instant racing bill started.

Senate Majority Leader Bart Davis, R-Idaho Falls, told Werk, "I have been privileged to work with you, Sen. Werk - but not those first few years," drawing laughter. "You have become quite a fine legislator," Davis said.