Idaho Legislature at a standstill, adjournment delayed

Idaho lawmakers are currently in a standstill after Republican infighting halted both chambers from moving forward on any major legislative action. On Thursday, House members only had passed just three bills over the course of eight hours. That’s because leadership kept putting the House at ease after the most conservative members kept requesting that legislation be read at length. The House GOP then decided to caucus, meeting for several hours privately. Meanwhile, in the Senate, lawmakers managed to complete the majority of their business, leaving them waiting on the House to send over major pieces of legislation. Senate Majority Leader Bart Davis says the delays mean the Legislature will no longer adjourn on Friday, but sometime next week. Idaho House Minority Leader, Representative Mat Erpelding of Boise issued the following statement Thursday:

“Although Idaho Democrats may disagree with Republicans on many issues, we have never let up in our efforts to promote and pass bipartisan legislation that is in the best interests of all Idahoans.The lack of discipline shown by the Republicans this session shows an indifference toward completing the people’s work. The in-fighting on display not only tarnishes the image of the Idaho Statehouse, it will cost Idahoans over $30,000 for every extra day we are here dealing with Republican shenanigans – which is nearly an entire year’s salary for a teacher in Idaho. While the Republicans continue to waste taxpayer time and money to keep their party together, Idaho Democrats will keep fighting to improve education, the economy, and our quality of life.”