Idaho Lawmakers Eye Changes to State’s Contract Rules

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A group of Idaho lawmakers tasked with updating the state's 40-year-old contracting laws is one step closer to revamping a system that has been plagued with a string of scandals surrounding Idaho's high-dollar contracts.

The legislative interim committee met Friday to review draft proposals on how to change Idaho's procurement policies. The committee must finalize a recommendation for the 2016 legislative session. Changes include providing penalties for unethical behavior, require uniform training standards across state agencies and require annual reporting on high-risk contracts.

Idaho's system has come under scrutiny, particularly after a district judge in February voided a $60 million contract that provided broadband access in public schools. The judge determined state officials violated Idaho procurement laws by amending the contract after it had been awarded.