He sits down with Managing Editor Bryan Schott to discuss a number of issues facing lawmakers as they get back to work.
On the John Swallow scandal:
“I’m glad it’s over,” he says. “But there are a number of issues from the House investigation that lawmakers need to address.”
Amendment 3 ruling:
“I can almost guarantee there is going to be some reaction to it (the ruling),” says Niederhauser. “This year I expect to have all kinds of interesting discussions about the issue.”
On transportation funding:
While he doesn’t expect any increase in the gas tax during an election year, he thinks the best chance to raise revenue for transportation is hiking vehicle fees while laying the groundwork for some increase in the future. “We can’t afford to ‘kick the can’ down the road like Congress does.”
“Count My Vote”
“If anyone should support a direct primary, it’s me since I wasn’t treated very well at the convention in 2006. But, I’m afraid going to a direct primary would create a bunch of ‘armchair voters.’
Lobbyist influence on lawmakers:
“We’ve changed a lot of things. We don’t have sponsored lunches anymore. We’re headed in a direction where we will have less of that influence.”
On states’ rights vs. the federal government:
“I believe it’s the biggest battle of our time.”
