Idaho Senate Looking Over Transportation Bill

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A proposal to address Idaho's multi-million dollar transportation funding shortfall is now in the hands of the Senate. The Senate Transportation Committee voted 7-2 on Thursday to send HB 312 to the Senate floor. However, the bill is expected to be heavily amended before emerging for a full vote.

Currently, the measure would create $20 million in new transportation revenue by increasing registration vehicle fees. Earlier this week, the Senate rejected a massive tax plan backed by House Republican leaders.

House leadership has since stated they will not send any new transportation funding bills to the Senate. Idaho's transportation shortfall is $262 million, with Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter expecting the Idaho Legislature to approve an adequate funding solution before adjourning.