Idaho governor opposes constitutional amendment

Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter says Idahoans should vote no on the only statewide constitutional amendment on the November ballot.

The obscure proposal would amend the Idaho Constitution to allow lawmakers to reject rules created by executive branch agencies – otherwise known as a legislative veto. A similar proposal was struck down two years ago.

However, in a statement released Wednesday, Otter said that the amendment includes a clause that would vastly expand the Idaho Legislature’s power. That’s because the amendment includes language that would allow lawmakers to not only reject administrative rules, but also tweak them without the governor’s approval.

Otter described the ballot initiative as a solution in search of a problem.

Attorney General Lawrence Wasden also opposes the amendment.