Huntsman Working for Earlier Referendum Election

None by KCPW

November Might Happen, if Cities Agree to Share Cost

(KCPW News) With the voucher system on hold and court cases imminent, Governor Jon Huntsman Junior is now trying to get the voucher referendum on a ballot this November, rather than February.

"It would be taking it to the people sooner, rather than later - which I've always been in favor of," says Huntsman. "My decision about February was based on financial pragmatism. If there's anyway we can maybe burden-share with some of the municipalities . . . that would probably make November a little more attractive."

Huntsman says lawmakers seem open to the plan during preliminary discussions. A statewide election will cost about 3 and a half million dollars, so the Governor previously planned to tack the referendum onto the already-funded Presidential Primary in February. But the State School Board has now decided to delay implementing vouchers and has asked lawmakers to clarify the two voucher bills. That would require a special session. Huntsman sees no need for that:

"I've met with the School Board. I've met with members of the Legislature, and I think we all know that there will be some critical court cases that will play out in the next few months. I think we just kind of need to let that play out, without second-guessing what the courts may decide," says Huntsman.

Utah law allows the Governor to call a special election in June or November without legislative approval. So if can muster support from lawmakers and municipalities to help share the cost of a statewide election in November, he will not need to call a special session. He says that's his preference.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2008 KCPW