Governor Otter Delivers 2012 State Of the State Address

Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter is pitching $60 million in tax cuts in his State of the State address, a proposal that dwarfs a separate initiative to create technology jobs and spur university research.

Monday's speech to open the 2012 Legislature was intended to underscore how Otter favors trimming government over new programs to boost Idaho's economy.

The Republican governor also was expected to outline a $41 million, 3 percent pay bonus for state employees and teachers -- but only if tax revenues remain robust.

And Otter plans to show continued support for last year's education reforms, recommending $32 million to buy laptops for students and pay merit bonuses to teachers.

Lawmakers will debate Otter's proposals over the next three months.