House Dems say they’ll slow down session if two bills don’t get hearings

House Democrats held a press conference this afternoon to call for hearings on two pieces of legislation that majority Republicans so far haven’t agreed to hear: A $1.25 per pack increase in the cigarette tax, and a measure calling for an advisory vote on state schools Supt. Tom Luna’s school-reform legislation. The minority leaders said until they get hearings on the bills, they’ll use any means available to them to slow down the legislative process in protest. “If we need to add a few more days to the legislative session, then so be it,” said Rep. Brian Cronin, D-Boise.

Minority Leader John Rusche, D-Lewiston, said Democrats want the cigarette tax heard, to address smoking and generate $51 million for state services to offset budget cuts. Polling shows strong support for the bill among Idahoans, he said. “We’re puzzled, dismayed and frankly frustrated that we’re approaching the end of the 2011 session, and a bill that we know exists and has bipartisan support has not seen the light of day.” Rep. Elfreda Higgins, D-Garden City, said on the advisory vote, “The superintendent, the governor and backers of this plan insisted that there is a silent majority in Idaho who stands behind them. We very much doubt that,” as she said calls and emails to legislators are running strongly against the legislation. “Let’s put it to the voters so they can officially weigh in.”