Senate OKs tribal land tax exemption bill

The Idaho Senate approved a bill forbidding counties from taxing tribal government land on the state's reservations.

The 33-2 decision came after brief debate Tuesday.

The bill now heads to Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's desk.

Caldwell Republican Sen. Jim Rice said the bill adds a property tax exemption for tribal government land within the boundaries of tribal reservations and was warranted long ago.

Rice said the measure seeks to treat tribal government's land just like other government buildings across the state.

Republican Sen. John Tippets of Montpelier said passing the legislation is a historic move and sends a message that lawmakers are interested in cooperating with the state's tribal leaders.

The proposal would save $303,000 in assessments annually for all five tribes with reservations in Idaho.