Sen. Heider Pulls Bill Barring Felons From High School

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The sponsor of a bill intended to keep convicted felons out of Idaho's public schools has pulled the legislation. Republican Sen. Lee Heider of Twin Falls said Wednesday he decided to remove the bill from the Senate Education Committee after realizing it may have unintended consequences for young people who get into trouble. The bill would require school boards to deny enrollment to anyone convicted of a violent felony.

Heider says felons are more likely to be involved in gangs or peddle drugs than their peers. But he said Wednesday the bill's current language could result in punishing students who aren't criminals, but simply get involved school fights. Heider says he's not sure if he will seek amendments to the bill or drop it altogether for this year.