After three years and multiple bill drafts, small-scale suction dredge miners in Idaho are no closer to finding the regulatory relief they're seeking, reports Bill Spence of the Lewiston Tribune. Legislation exempting the miners and prospectors from state water quality regulations was killed on a voice vote in the House Resources and Conservation Committee Tuesday, after two hours of testimony; close to 100 people showed up for the hearing, filling two committee rooms.

It’s the third year Rep. Paul Shepherd, R-Riggins, has brought similar legislation. Each time, it’s raised legal, constitutional and practical concerns. You can read Spence’s full report here at his “Political Theater” blog.