Idaho Increasingly Saying ‘No’ to Local Government Control

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho lawmakers are reminding cities and counties that they don't always have local control over imposing restrictions on businesses and citizens.

Two proposals have already been introduced during this year's legislative session that would prevent local governments from implementing their own rules on plastic bag bans and minimum wage levels.

The handful of Idaho's Democratic lawmakers has been quick to oppose such measures, saying their conservative colleagues have no problem blasting the federal government for similar actions.

However, the GOP supermajority says the measures are needed to prevent a mish-mashed set of laws across the state that can make it difficult for businesses to thrive.