Idaho bill would take away power of teachers union

BOISE, Idaho – A bill that would phase out tenure for new teachers and restrict collective bargaining on their salaries and benefits is on its way to the Idaho governor.

The GOP-backed measure cleared its final hurdle Tuesday in the state Legislature, where it passed the Idaho House on a 48-22 vote. Nine Republicans crossed party lines to oppose the bill.

The state's teachers union, the Idaho Education Association, says it would gut teacher rights. It plans to protest Wednesday.

Supporters say the plan will give more power to Idaho's locally elected school boards in labor relations issues. Opponents say it's a slap in the face to teachers and a mean-spirited move to dismantle their union.

Republican Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has backed the education reforms.