Clark House Liquor License Bill Clears House

A bill that would grant the Clark House a special liquor license passed out of the House on a split vote Wednesday.

Idaho law does not allow sale of liquor licenses for establishments outside city limits or for lawmakers to grant special exceptions. So the bill has been written in such a way that it appears to fit any establishment that meets certain descriptions. In fact, it would grant a liquor license to only one establishment - the Clark House.

“Anyone who says the way we grant liquor licenses in this state is consistent, fair and equitable is kidding themselves,” said Bruce Newcomb, R-Burley.

“This is the method provided for in Idaho code for granting liquor licenses,” said Rep. June Judd, D-St. Maries.

But this special privilege is what bothered the bill’s opposition.

“Special legislation should not be written to grant special privileges,” said Rep. Mark Stubbs, R-Twin Falls.

Many legislators said that they felt the code for granting liquor licenses is outdated and should be looked at, but that this was no reason to skirt the Idaho Constitution.

“If he deserves one, let’s figure out why and give it to everyone who deserves one,” said Rep. John Tippits, R-Bennington.

If the bill passes, it would not be the first time the Legislature has granted a special liquor license to an establishment outside of city limits. Just two years ago such a license was granted to a golf course in Glenns Ferry.

“There’s a little hypocrisy for everyone,” said Lenore Barrett, R-Challis.

The House voted 44-25 to send the bill to the Senate.

, DataTimes