Rep. Thompson’s school crossing guard bill killed in House committee
HB 623, Rep. Jeff Thompson's bill to lay out in state law provisions regarding school crossing guards has been killed in the House Transportation Committee on a voice vote. The bill would have authorized crossing guards over age 21 to write crosswalk violation reports and deliver them to a police officer within 72 hours. Committee members said the bill raised lots of issues, from training to appropriate penalties. Thompson, R-Idaho Falls, said, "This is a further measure to protect Idaho's children."
Rep. Rich Wills, R-Glenns Ferry, said, "I'm concerned about it being criminal." He called the bill a concept that sounds good on its face, but raises issues on closer examination. Rep. Phil Hart, R-Athol, said, "I just kind of think this needs more work." Committee Chairman Joe Palmer, R-Meridian, said, "The sheriff can deputize anybody. ... I think what they're asking for is a power that's already out there."