Ruralnorthwest.com

[Benewah County]  [Bonner County]  [Boundary County]  [Kootenai County]  [Shoshone County]

      RNW Home

Senate bill a license for dishonesty

The Idaho Senate has passed bill #1340 that requires contractor's licensing. This bill states that to do construction in Idaho is a privilege granted by the legislature.

So much for the right to work, as well as freedom.

Further, the bill establishes a whole new chapter in Idaho law that infers that licensing will somehow stop dishonesty, theft and unprincipled construction practices.

We need only to look at Oregon and California, just two states that have contractor licensing, to know that dishonesty, theft and unprincipled practices have not been eliminated, but only licensed by these states.

Further, the cost of construction has gone up, and the large contractors are generally the ones who push this type legislation in hopes of limiting competition. This, of course, further raises prices.

This piece of bad legislation is now in the House and may soon be voted on. Call your legislator and let them know we do not want Senate Bill 1340 or any other bill like it in Idaho.

While you're at it, let Shawn Keough know you are not happy with her for voting for this bill and that you further are not pleased with her voting to keep HJR 9 from coming to the floor to be voted on. This is the bill that provides the people the chance to vote on the constitutional amendment banning "gay" marriage.

Call and let them know.

Steve Tanner

Bonners Ferry