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Idaho Legislature rejects new science standards

Posted at 5:28 PM, Feb 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-09 19:18:01-05

BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Idaho lawmakers have rejected new K-12 science standards after receiving criticism over how the rules -- which for the first time include global warming and evolution components-- were finalized.

The Senate Education Committee spiked the proposed rules Monday after a House panel also rejected the same proposals earlier this session. This means state officials must start the rule-making process over again.

Tim Corder, special assistant to state schools Superintendent Sherri Ybarra, says the department requested the rules rejection to allow more time for public comment, adding that the department did not violate any laws while drafting this year's proposed science rules.

Science teachers, state officials and other stakeholders spent last summer drafting new science standards. The State Board of Education approved the rules in August.

In Idaho, legislative rules are presented to the Legislature starting in January. They carry the same force as law because they are drafted to implement state statutes.