End of Week Update for the Legislature:
On Monday the Senate passed SB 1108 which would allow rural communities to have more of a say in the initiative process by requiring that 6% of registered voters in 18 of 35 legislative districts signal their support for the initiative to make the ballot. In the Education Committee testimony was heard on H 206, 221, and 224 regarding funding, renewals and contracts for charter schools.
Tuesday, the Senate passed SB 1079 which creates an Internet Crimes against Children Unit within the Office of the Attorney General. The creation of this unit would allow for the additional hiring of staff needed to aid in investigating and prosecuting those who use the Internet and technology to exploit children. The ICACU would partner with local and state law enforcement agencies to pursue the prevention of sexual exploitation of Idaho’s children. In the Senate Commerce Committee"opportunity grants” were unanimously supported. These grants would provide aid to local communities to attract and keep new businesses.
On Wednesday the Senate passed SCR 124 which asking the federal government to cleanup networks of trails damaged by years of wildfire. The Frank-Church–River of No Return Wilderness area would be designated a natural disaster area allowing for its cleanup by the US Forest Service. The move ensures Idaho taxpayers are not responsible for paying for land the federal government should be taking care of. The Senate also passed HB 159 which would allow the Nez Perce Convention Center to receive a liquor license. This would promote economic activity in the area and create new jobs.
Thursday, the Senate and Judiciary Rules Committee unanimously voted to add two version of synthetic marijuana,"spice,” to the state’s list of banned substances. The additions now allow law enforcement and local police agencies to crack down on its distribution.
Friday, the Senate had the honor to unanimously pass SCR 124, a Senate Concurrent Resolution that honored five fallen Idaho servicemen. The five fallen servicemen who gave their lives in the service of their country in 2012 were: U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Daniel J. Brown, 27; U.S. Army Sergeant Chris J. Workman, 33; U.S. Army Private First Class Cody O. Moosman, 24; U.S. Army Specialist Ethan J. Martin, 22 and U.S. Army Private First Class Shane G. Wilson, 20.
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