End of Week Update for the Legislature (March 1, 2013)
On Monday the Senate voted overwhelmingly to support SCR 112. The Senate Concurrent Resolution states that the chamber does not support marijuana use in any form. A Concurrent Resolution does not have the force of law but is simply a statement of support. Later in the session the chamber voted to support Idaho’s"primacy” declaration through SB 1061. The bill states that it is against state policy for any threatened or endangered species to be introduced in the state without Idaho’s approval. This action ensures Idaho is exercising its sovereign rights under the 10th Amendment to manage its wildlife.
The Senate passed HCR 4 on Tuesday, honoring two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Kristin Armstrong for her achievements not just in sports, but also for being a positive role model for Idaho’s youth. The Chamber also approved SB 1100 which would define Health Care Sharing Ministries as exempt from being labeled an insurance company. A HCSM is a purely voluntary Healthcare cost-sharing agreement between individuals who share the same beliefs. It is administered by a non-profit organization and offers a unique way to lower Healthcare costs into the future. Lastly, the Senate approved HB 29 which approves funding for three more district court justices, one each in Ada, Jefferson and Canyon Counties. This will help fulfill a"Continual obligation that we share with the 3rd branch of government, and that obligation is to provide access to justice for every person through timely, fair and impartial resolution of cases,” said Senator Patti Anne Lodge.
On Wednesday the Sen. State Affairs printed a constitutional amendment that would eliminate gender and age for state run militia members. The militia is recognized both by the state and the feds as an organization controlled solely by states (not under the auspice of the federal government.). By eliminating age and gender, most Idahoans can be members of the militia, and as such members could bear arms and not be subject to federal regulation. This bill will not be heard until next year. As a constitutional amendment, two thirds of the legislative vote are required, then it would then go to the people in Nov. of 2014. SB 1074 passed the Senate on Wednesday as well. The bill expands a 1984 law that created a special liquor license for the Lewiston Roundup, by adjusting the acreage and city-limits rules so that it matches the Caldwell Night Rodeo. The move has the potential to increase the positive economic impact of Caldwell Night Rodeo which benefits the entire Treasure Valley.
Thursday, the Senate passed House Concurrent Resolution 3. This Concurrent Resolution states the support of the Legislature for schools continuing to teach students how to write in cursive. According to experts, cursive handwriting improves hand-eye development and coordination.
On Friday, the Senate passed SB 1098 which promotes openness and transparency in teacher-school district negotiations. The bill had the support of the School Boards Association and the Idaho Education Association. Also, the Senate voted unanimously to protect the 1st Amendment Rights of all Idahoans by rejecting Department of Administration rules that would have limited people’s right to protest in and outside the Capitol.
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