BOISE, Idaho -- An Idaho Falls lawmaker has again introduced legislation calling for a moratorium on wind power development in the state.
Republican Rep. Erik Simpson wants Idaho to take a breather on wind energy projects for two years. He is pushing for the moratorium on behalf of southeastern Idaho residents who are unhappy with dozens of turbines that have been erected.
The Spokesman-Review reports the House Local Government Committee agreed Friday to introduce Simpson's legislation, which will now get a hearing. His previous effort in 2011 failed to win over the House State Affairs Committee.
Lawmakers who voted against measure last year conceded that rapid development of Idaho wind farms was creating some concern, but felt the decision to halt such projects should be left to local county commissioners.
