Decisive Action Expected On Abortion, Truck Weights

Some of the most contentious issues of the session will be in the spotlight during the ninth week of the Idaho Legislature.

Full debate and decisive votes are expected on abortion, truck weight limits, child support and restrictions on tobacco sales as lawmakers get serious about clearing the decks for session-ending budget bills.

Gov. Phil Batt starts the week today with representatives of agriculture groups and leading employers in a public show of support for a test project allowing heavier trucks on selected Idaho highways.

On Tuesday, the House State Affairs Committee will consider proposed amendments aimed at easing concerns expressed by retailers about a Senate-passed bill to restrict juveniles’ access to tobacco products.

On Wednesday, the Senate State Affairs Committee considers two House-passed anti-abortion bills, and Chairman John Hansen has promised a vote that day on whether they should be sent to the full Senate.

Meanwhile, House Judiciary Chairman Celia Gould said she would try to get leaders to suspend rules and allow early floor consideration this week of a package of bills intended to crack down on parents who fail to make child-support payments.

Federal officials have threatened to strip the state of $43 million for welfare and child-support enforcement unless Idaho does more to collar deadbeat parents.