Idaho Lawmaker Say no to Tax Breaks to Veterans

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Representatives took exception to exempting veterans from paying taxes on retirement benefits on concern such a move would unfairly single out one group for favorable treatment. The House Monday voted 35-31 against carving out perks for veterans, when other early retirees — firefighters, among them — could make similar arguments they also deserve a break. Boise Rep. Hy Kloc, a Democrat, acknowledged it was tough to vote against a bill for military veterans, but said the measure set a poor economic precedent. The bill also would cost the state nearly $8 million. Rep. Kathleen Sims, a Coeur d'Alene Republican, had been pushing the measure. If Idaho became a tax haven for ex-military, Sims conjectured, hard-working people who often start a second career after leaving the service might come in droves.