HJR 5 misunderstood

There is some basic misunderstanding of HJR 5. Some are claiming that the proposed amendment would expand the authority of the Idaho Legislature. This is not true. HJR 5 protects the separation of powers by making absolutely clear that the Legislature’s review of government regulations made by bureaucrats is within its power. It protects what the Legislature has been doing for over 30 years to protect Idahoans from government regulations. It does not change any process.

Right now, the Legislature spends the first few weeks of each session reviewing the government regulations. This process was challenged in 1990, and the Idaho Supreme Court held that what we do is constitutional.

The reason for HJR 5 is that, with changes in the Idaho Supreme Court, the day may come when the court may be less willing to defend the authority of the Legislature from bureaucrats. HJR 5 protects the separation of powers from the bureaucracy.

Those who oppose HJR5 believe the Legislature should be stripped of its authority to review government regulations. They desire to have a future court allow bureaucrats to impose their will on you. Vote to defend the separation of powers. Vote yes on HJR 5.

Sen. Jim Rice

Caldwell, Idaho