IDAHO

Tax panel OK’s private school scholarship credits

Sen. Bob Nonini touts the income tax credit program a money-saver that will encourage school choice. The Idaho School Boards Association, the Idaho Association of School Administrators and the Idaho Association oppose the bill.

Campus religious groups bill clears committee

Sen. Curt McKenzie, R-Nampa, says his bill would protect student faith groups on college campuses. Opponents say the bill carves out a special exemption for them.

Statehouse roundup, 3.14.13

The personal property tax parlor game continues. And legislative action — on teacher salary money, school labor issues and a school security bill, and more.

Briefs: Task force, state board meeting, recipe book, gardens

Find information about the governor’s task force, the launch of a new lunch recipe book and grants awarded to schools for building gardens.

Tuesday’s levies: personal property tax figures

The $107.8 million in school levies, approved Tuesday by voters in 36 districts, includes roughly $9.4 million in personal property taxes.

On hold: Committee sidetracks labor bills

Senate Education Committee members voted unanimously to hold two controversial labor bills. But Chairman John Goedde said the bills are not dead.

Personal property tax repeal hits hiccup

Thursday was supposed to be showdown day in the debate over repealing this tax on business equipment and supplies. But now, a new bill is reportedly in the works.

Tuesday’s school levy pricetag: $107.8 million

Tuesday night’s results were lopsided and consistent. Voters in 36 Idaho school districts approved school levies. Four levies and one bond issue went down to defeat.

Statehouse roundup, 3.12.13

In today’s Statehouse action: a math and science teacher hiring bill goes to the governor, while two charter school bills are sidetracked until next week.

Of vampires, wolves and property taxes

Education leaders argued against a $120 million repeal of the personal property tax, aligning behind an $18 million to $19 million alternative. The House Revenue and Taxation Committee could vote on Thursday.