Panel OKs bill limiting governor legislative vacancy choices

BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Idaho governors would have only one choice rather than three when it came to filling legislative vacancies under a measure that headed to the House on Thursday.

The House State Affairs Committee approved the measure backers say is needed to prevent governors from passing over a local party committee's first choice.

Those opposed or uncertain about the legislation said it removed a check and balance between the legislative and executive branches.

Idaho governor's typically appoint the top choice put forward but not always.

Most recently, Republican Gov. Brad Little selected the third choice to replace a northern Idaho lawmaker who had been expelled after being convicted of a felony.

For the measure to become law, it will have to clear the House and Senate and be signed into law by Little.