House votes for spending cap, 48-21

Here’s a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The House has approved a bill that would cap annual general fund spending at a little more than 5 percent of total amount of Idaho’s total taxable income. The bill approved 48-21 Monday would set the cap at 5.33 percent on the total amount of taxable income estimated by state tax officials each year. The measure also requires that any revenue above that cap be used to replenish state rainy day accounts before dealing with tax relief. House Republican Majority Leader Mike Moyle says the cap signals the GOP commitment to keeping government lean and making sure taxpayers get back what the state doesn’t need. Democrats and a handful of Republicans objected. House Minority Leader John Rusche said 5.33 percent is too low and ignores the increasing demands on government.