Be informed, involved as legislators head to work

This coming legislative session will be one that will separate the statesmen (or women) from the politicians.

As Sens. Shawn Keough and Joyce Broadsword and Reps. Eric Anderson and George Eskridge pack their bags for Boise, there are more than the usual concerns weighing on them.

For example:

? What about property tax relief? Each of our elected representatives have had their noses bloodied when they have attempted for drum up support to keep Idahoans in their homes.

? What about grocery tax relief for the many Idaho residents who are forced to choose between food and medicine every month?

? How about transportation funding? In 2006, approximately 20 percent of the state highway pavement was considered deficient. In a report titled "Moving Idaho", Pamela Lowe, the director of the Idaho Transportation Department, stated, "We are rapidly approaching a time when the department will no longer be able to fund basic transportation needs such as patching potholes and plowing snow."

Gov. Otter is eyeing an increase in registration fees and perhaps even an increase in the gas tax. It's our opinion a gas tax increase should be the last option discussed to raise funds. This increase is regressive because it taxes poorer people more heavily and at the same time hurts industry. The registration fee increase is a no-brainer and should be passed without being bogged down with more controversial legislation.

Our elected representatives want to hear from all of us during the sessions. Each of them have done a commendable job staying in touch with constituents.

On Jan. 7, Lt. Gov. Jim Risch's gavel will come down and our the neighbors we voted into office will begin doing the state's business.

Make sure you contact them. Make sure you stay informed. This year, there is too much at stake to sit on the sidelines.

David Keyes is publisher of the Daily Bee.