Bill would require Legislature’s OK to spend COVID-19 funds

BOISE, IDAHO | By KEITH RIDLER (AP) — The Idaho Legislature’s budget committee has approved a proposed law requiring that about $2.2 billion coming to the state from the latest round of federal coronavirus rescue money must be approved by lawmakers before it is spent by state agencies.

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee voted 14-5 on Wednesday to approve the measure.

Lawmakers have been angry that Republican Gov. Brad Little spent previous federal rescue money without their input.

Idaho is getting about $5.3 billion in the latest package. That includes $2.1 billion in direct payments to people and businesses. Of the remaining $3.2 billion, about $2.2 billion would require the Legislature’s approval.