Lawmaker rejects reimbursement for special session

A Pocatello lawmaker is refusing to be reimbursed for a special legislative session scheduled Monday to discuss a once-rejected bill that would have enforced federal child support laws.

Rep. Mark Nye, D-Pocatello, said the special session could cost taxpayers up to $40,000 and is calling for other lawmakers to forgo reimbursement for travel, meals and lodging.

“I think people should step up and waive this cost. This an extra — they call it a special session. I think other legislators can do what they want, but in my case, I didn’t feel right about having the people pay,” said Nye.

Several lawmakers rejected the bill during the regular session amid concerns that it could allow Islamic law to influence Idaho’s courts. If the bill isn’t passed by July 1, Idaho stands to lose millions of dollars in federal funding.

Nye said he doesn’t fault lawmakers for voting how they did during the regular session, but said he expects the bill to pass this time around.