Senator
Nuxoll's weekly newsletter
 and
parents who desire to use the Bible for reference purposes in public schools
by codifying in law a practice already allowed, to eliminate any confusion.
No one is required to use religious texts, nor is anyone allowed to use
any religious text for doctrinal or religious purposes. The text
of this bill is one paragraph.
SB 1338, public nuisance abatement, is legislation that I introduced to allow counties in Idaho to declare a catastrophic public nuisance and request abatement from federal land management agencies when the condition of federally managed land presents a danger of catastrophic wildfire, polluted drinking water, and threatens the health, safety and welfare of the citizens. Contrary to news, this has nothing to do with a federal land transfer. It simply brings all involved entities to the drawing table to coordinate goals. SB 1294 allows pharmacists to immunize children ages 6 on up. I voted against this bill because pharmacists do not know the medical history of the person. If the person would have an adverse reaction, there would be no doctor there to handle the situation. The Albertsons Foundation recently did a survey that shows 47% of Idahoans would choose a private school for their children if money were no object. In fact, 73% would send their children to a private or charter school. HJR1 is an amendment that would allow state education funds to follow the students to whatever school fits their needs and their parent’s choice. Call the governor if you want HJR1 to be on the ballot in November. The Education Committees reported the priorities for this year. Their priorities are to fund the Career Ladder for teachers, restore operational funding to the 2009 levels, increase classroom technology, provide more college and career counseling, increase professional development, and improve literary proficiency. The Idaho Department of Education needs input to ensure that your voice will be heard. Comments on rulemaking starts on May 23 and ends on July 25. If you have suggestions on proposed rules, please comment on the Department of Education website. www.sde.idaho.gov One idea as an alternative proposal to Medicaid Expansion is allowing a non-profit to set up and manage a savings account for a chronically ill person into which they can contribute for preventative health services. Local non-profits would offer matching funds, sometimes up to 10-1, with the state contributing $300 dollars to go into the account. As the person needs the money for healthcare, they would confer with the non-profit to find the doctor of their choice. This program already exists. In 2002 it was called an Individual Development Account. This alternative has been successful in breaking the cycle of poverty throughout the country by giving them a stake in their personal wellbeing. This type of legislation would be an excellent solution. Please call if you have questions. Sen. Sheryl L. Nuxoll Idaho State Senate (208) 332-1355 (Direct line) (208) 332-1417 (Assistant’s line) snuxoll@senate.idaho.gov |
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