LAST WEEK'S HIGHLIGHTS
- Drones: The Senate State Affairs Committee agreed to hold a public hearing on a measure to restrict the use of unmanned aircraft in Idaho. Drones would be forbidden to conduct surveillance or observation of a person's home, farm, dairy or ranch without written consent. Those restrictions do not apply to state or local law enforcement agencies "engaged in marijuana eradication efforts on any property." Drones cannot photograph an individual without their consent, unless they're in a public gathering on public or private land.
- Racing: The House State Affairs Committee sent a measure to the House floor to allow "historical horse racing" in Idaho Falls, Coeur d'Alene and Ada County. It would allow pari-mutuel wagering on previously recorded races; the contests are chosen at random from a database of more than 200,000 old races. Proponents of the legislation say the move would bring in much-needed revenue for horsemen and horse-related industries.
- Guns: The House approved a concealed weapons "enhancement" that requires training but permits holders to carry their guns concealed in other states. The measure goes to the Senate.
- Teacher contracts: The Senate approved a bill requiring open contract negotiations. The state's education unions and school boards agreed to support the bill. The proposal makes collective bargaining negotiations public and requires school boards to post notices of bargaining sessions.
- Handwriting: The Senate passed a resolution that encourages the State Board of Education to include cursive handwriting curriculum for Idaho students.
COMING UP THIS WEEK:
- Budgets: The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee evaluates the budgets of the judicial branch, Department of Revenue and Taxation, Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Correction and the State Board of Education.
- Health insurance: Members of the House are expected to debate a state-based health insurance exchange early in the week.
- Ballot measures: On Monday the Senate State Affairs Committee will continue a public hearing on legislation to make it more difficult for an initiative or referendum to qualify for a vote.
Christina Lords, clords@postregister.com
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