Rancher’s bill would limit use of eminent domain in Idaho
“A bill designed to protect farmers and other landowners from government takings by limiting the use of eminent domain in Idaho has gained a foothold in the Idaho Senate. The Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee unanimously voted to print the bill Jan. 30, which means it will get a public hearing.
Sen. Jim Guthrie, a Republican rancher from McCammon in southeast Idaho, said the legislation would stop government entities in Idaho from using eminent domain for trails, paths, greenways, and walking, running, hiking, equestrian or bicycling use.
The bill is supported by Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, which has policy opposing the use of eminent domain for recreational purposes, and Bannock County Farm Bureau, which has many members who live between Pocatello and McCammon.
When Guthrie was a member of the Idaho House of Representatives in 2011, his bill passed the House by a vote of 56-14, but it never got a hearing in the Senate. It also failed to get past a Senate committee in 2012. Guthrie won a seat in the Senate in November and the taxation committee unanimously voted to give it a hearing this time.”
Ellis, Sean. The Capital Press 31 January 2013.