This week Idaho’s Senate rejected Governor Butch Otter’s appointee to the state’s Fish and Game Commission, Joan Hurlock. It’s been nearly 40 years since Idaho’s legislature hasn't confirmed a gubernatorial appointee.
Hurlock would have been the second woman to serve on Idaho’s Fish and Game Commission since it was established in the 1930s.
Those who opposed Hurlock’s confirmation said she did not have enough experience. For some that meant she had not hunted in Idaho for a sufficient number of years. However, there is no legal requirement that commissioners be hunters.
Hurlock has carried out the duties of a Fish and Game Commissioner since the Governor appointed her last summer. Commission chair Randy Budge says Hurlock has done a good job and was well qualified.
“It could come down to a question. Is there someone more qualified? I think you could look at me or any of the commissioners and we would honestly tell you that there are people more qualified than we are to be on the commission,” Budge says. “That doesn’t mean we are not qualified. I think the same could be said with Joan.”
The commission seat for the Magic Valley region is now vacant. A selection committee will be assembled to take applications for the post. The committee will send recommendations to the governor who will make another appointment.
Copyright 2013 Boise State Public Radio
