By Representative Brent Crane

The Idaho House has taken one giant step toward bringing about consistency and predictability in the election process. I was pleased to be among the overwhelming number of representatives in supporting election consolidation. Idaho has more than 400 elections every year, including school boards, supplemental levies, fire districts, and many of those elections are held on odd dates.

H 201 sets aside four specific election dates in November, May, March and August - dates that people can easily remember. If this bill becomes law, most elections will be under the direction of county clerks and it provides consistency with polling places.

There is a modest cost to making this change, but to me it's well worth it. I believe it will promote a better turnout in elections, which is something we all want.

Now that HB 201 has passed through the House, it will move to the Senate for approval. It is our hope that it will pass quickly and be put into effect as soon as possible. The voting process is the single most important process in a democracy. It should be secure and predictable. We work for you!