Local Option Sales Tax:  Consideration of legislation to allow local-option taxes to fund transportation improvements and public transit is still being discussed at the statehouse. House GOP leadership are hinting at adding a constitutional amendment which would require two-thirds vote of both houses plus a vote at the next general election which might have the effect of killing the legislative measure.

The talked about measure would require a two-thirds supermajority vote to impose local-option taxes for cities and counties to fund transportation needs identified by local communities, and would include both public transit and road construction.

IADA has a policy to oppose local option taxes and has been voicing our concern about this measure during the 2008 session.  Please take the time to contact your local representative and let them know how this directly affects our industry.

Transportation Funding:  At this point, transportation remains a significant issue that is yet to be outlined by the Legislature but it is strongly held that the Governors office will be pushing for an increase in registration fees this session. 

Employer Protection Act:  IADA has learned that Senator John Goedde of Coeur d' Alene has agreed to sponsor this legislation.  This issue is being brought forward to create assurances that the contracts employers have to protect their businesses can be legally made and are enforceable. IADA looks forward to working with the coalition in bringing this legislation forward later this session after the details on the bill are worked out. 

Principal Place of Business: We are off to a good start with this piece of legislation.  After getting the "OK" from the Governor's office this piece of legislation will be moving forward this year and our first hearing is before the Senate Transportation Committee next Tuesday.  Little to zero opposition exists of this issue but there is a long way to go before the finish line.

This proposal will modify the definition of "Principal Place of Business" relating to licensed dealers.  It adds requirements to include that the commercial structure be sitting on a foundation, and must have permanently installed utilities, including power, water, restrooms and a hardwired telephone.

Titling of Slide-In Campers:  This piece of legislation will also see committee action next week as we are scheduled to testify on Monday before the House Transportation Committee.  Currently there is no opposition to this proposal and IADA has the full support if ITD.

This proposal will require the titling of pickup-mounted campers which meet the same requirements as recreational vehicles, and are at least 6 feet overall length and contain at least one facility as listed in this proposed legislation.