Those legislators who think it’s tacky to pursue corporate sponsorship for state parks haven’t been paying attention.
The Idaho House voted 52-17 Wednesday to allow corporate names on park signs, picnic shelters and brochures. That’s because the state’s parks department has faced years of declining budgets, and there is no indication lawmakers will replace the millions of dollars slashed during the economic downturn.
Many of the details would have to be worked out in next year’s legislative session, when park staffers have a chance to draft rules on how to implement the law, which is expected to have the approval of Gov. Butch Otter. Certainly, we would not expect fast food advertisements to appear overlooking any of Idaho’s scenic vistas. But there is nothing intrinsically wrong with labeling such attractions as Harriman Park, as is already the case. That’s because the family of the railroad magnate gave the state the property, provided it remains pristine.
Have you noticed Simplot Square in downtown Pocatello? Or several other names adorning public places? Golf courses have signs inviting players to sit on corporate-sponsored benches.
And Boise State University has its Taco Bell Arena.
New Hampshire, California and Georgia are just some of the states that have implemented some kind of sponsorships with businesses that support their state parks.
The Associated Press reports that despite assurance from supporters that the sponsorship was a smart way to prevent growing government or raising fees for visitors, opponents argue that the parks department should not have to grovel for corporate money.
“Who needs Niagara Falls when Idaho has Viagra Falls?” asked Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, causing many lawmakers to laugh. “I don’t know that we want to go there. I think we should be looking at the core problem — we should be funding this government function.”
The parks department is getting $3.5 million in state funds this year. In fiscal year 2008 — before the economic downturn — the agency received nearly $18 million in state general funds, according to AP.
“I think it’s a shame we have to hobble the parks department to fund its operation,” said Rep. Patrick McDonald, R-Boise. “I think if we want to attract people to this state, then we need to invest in our parks.”
The bill was tweaked before the House approved the legislation, meaning it needs to pass the Senate one more time before heading to the governor’s desk.
How a bill dies
Just when you thought the Idaho Legislature was making progress, a House bill revising state income and sales taxes died an ignominious death on the Senate floor.
The Idaho Statesman said the bill backed by House leadership proposed to flatten top personal income tax rates, eliminate the sales tax on groceries and the grocery tax credit, and add 7 cents to the tax on gasoline was sent back to committee without debate, effectively killing it.
Now when do the lawmakers plan to adjourn?