Quick Note: Idaho Representative Thinks He's a Constitutional Scholar, Wants to Ban EPA Regulations

An Idaho House committee has advanced a bill nullifying all Environmental Protection Agency regulations in that state.  HB 473, which declares the EPA's regulations "null and void and of no force and effect in this state," will now move to the full House for debate where the outcome is uncertain.

The bill was introduced by Representative Paul Shepherd (R) in response to concerns from suction dredge miners who are upset that a new EPA regulation requires them to acquire a permit.

Idaho State Attorney General Lawrence G. Wasden (R) said the bill is unconstitutional.  Mr. Shepherd replied "I say to the attorney general, even though he's a lawyer and I'm not, that I'm right--because the laymen wrote the Constitution."

Interesting concept, Mr. Shepherd.  How much are those suction dredge mining people paying you for this ridiculous, time and money wasting piece of legislation?   

I'm not sure whether I should laugh or cry.