Vouchers Bound for Courts

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Voters could repeal Utah's new voucher system, but lawmakers could just as easily keep it on the books. If voucher opponents prevail, lawmakers would have to meet in special session to re-allocate funds for the program. Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff says either way the issue is destined for years in the courts. He suggests lawmakers convene in special session, repeal both of their voucher laws and then pass a new, cleaner version:

"And then come back and start over," says Shurtleff. "I don't know if anybody wants to do that, but it is one option to try and get everything squared away and approach this so every one knows what they're voting for and what's required. So we don't have to litigate it for the next three or four years."

Shurtleff's opinion reinforces the arguments of voucher supporters who claim the ongoing referendum effort will not derail the new program. Governor Jon Huntsman Junior has said he will respect the wishes of the public on the issue. The entire debate is moot unless advocacy group Utahns for Public Schools can collect 92,000 signatures by April 9th to put vouchers on the ballot. Referendum organizers estimate they have about half those signatures with less than two weeks to go.

Click here for the full interview with Attorney General Mark Shurtleff on KCPW's Midday Metro. 

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom, Legislative Coverage, and 2007 Legislative Coverage. Copyright 2009 KCPW