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Statehouse roundup, 3.18.20: House sends transgender athletics ban to Little
In a testy debate, Democrats again called the House Bill 500 unfair, unnecessary and unconstitutional. Rep. Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls, accused opponents of “misdirection.”
Little urges Idahoans to avoid groups of 10 or more and to work from home
Little still isn’t ordering schools closed; that decision remains up to local school administrators.
Analysis: The 2020 Legislature goes from surreal to scary
While pandemic grips the world and COVID-19 cases surface in Idaho — wreaking havoc on commerce and community events and shuttering schools across the state — it’s business as unusual at the Legislature.
Statehouse roundup, 3.17.20: House breaks deadlock on higher ed budget
The movement on the budgets — especially the much-debated higher ed budget — brings the 2020 legislative session considerably closer to a conclusion.
Little declines to call for statewide school closures; leaves decision to local leaders
Little urged school leaders to act in consultation with local health authorities. The response from districts was split. West Ada and Boise schools will close. Other schools will remain open while excusing absences.
Little issues emergency coronavirus declaration
State health officials estimated up to 35 percent of the state, which would be more than 600,000 Idahoans, could become ill.
Analysis: The darkening cloud overshadowing Idaho’s higher ed budget debate
Lawmakers are haggling over a relatively small amount of money in this year’s higher education budget. As the global coronavirus pandemic worsens, next year’s decisions could be even tougher.
Lawmakers push toward adjournment amid coronavirus concerns
No date has been set as of Thursday afternoon. But leadership said adjournment will happen before the March 20 target.
UPDATE: More districts restrict travel as coronavirus surrounds Idaho
Thursday update: Districts are pondering what to do as the virus spreads. Check back here for regular updates.
Guns-in-school bill splits Second Amendment activists, education groups
A Senate committee could vote Friday on the bill, which would allow school employees with enhanced concealed weapons permits to carry firearms in school.