Tag Archives: Shawn Keough

Most races ended without much drama, but one senator called his own demise over a year ago

The primary election was not so much sound and fury as it was anti-climactic. Fireworks and change predicted by many among the Republicans produced some fireworks, but not much change. Now that Tuesday’s primary election has ended, what does it … Continue reading

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JFAC sets forth $22 million for state worker pay hikes next year

After lengthy debate Friday, members of the budget setting committee approved giving state workers a 2 percent pay hike next year. That’s less than the 3 percent than Gov. Butch Otter proposed in his budget, but the measure approved by … Continue reading

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Budget committee approves revenue target $33 million less than Otter’s projection

On Friday, members of the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC) approved its revenue target for fiscal year 2013, which means lawmakers can now begin setting budgets for state agencies, public schools and Idaho’s colleges and universities. JFAC approved a $2.667 billion … Continue reading

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Boise meeting explores changes to Land Board acreage limitations

Amending the Idaho Constitution is no small undertaking, requiring legislative approval to put the matter on the ballot and then voters approving it. A meeting in Boise Monday with the intent of trying once again to grant the Idaho Department … Continue reading

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Potential last stage of GARVEE bonding moves forward

The Idaho Senate Tuesday approved what could be the final $162 million in bonding for a set of highway construction projects in Idaho. The money would go to two of the six projects in the Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) … Continue reading

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Education reform effort passes the Idaho Senate

The Idaho Senate approved the third and final piece of state schools superintendent Tom Luna’s education overhaul, after hours of debate that included criticism from many Democrats and Republicans. The final vote was 20-15, which was the same tally as … Continue reading

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JFAC approves bonding for GARVEE road construction

Idaho lawmakers writing the state budget approved letting the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) issue $162 million in bonds to finish two construction projects. The new bond money could be the last money borrowed for the Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE), … Continue reading

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Idaho Senate approves strengthening anti-bullying law

Public school bullies could face mandatory punishment under legislation approved by the Idaho Senate Tuesday. The plan would also offer more training to teachers and other school staff about how to prevent bullying, intimidation and harassment. It also says staff … Continue reading

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Plan to expand liquor store hours deadlocks budget writers

Idaho budget writers have put off setting the budget for the Idaho State Liquor Division due to a split down the middle over whether to expand the hours at some state-run liquor stores. Gov. Butch Otter recommended the liquor division’s … Continue reading

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Senate passes two parts of Luna’s reform plan

The Idaho Senate approved two of the three parts of state schools superintendent Tom Luna’s reforms for public schools. Both plans, S 1108 and S1110, now head to a House committee, where they will be heard next week. The third … Continue reading

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