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IDAHO & REGIONAL HEADLINES

WYOMING SHOULD NOT MAKE DRUG TESTS A PREREQUISITE FOR PUBLIC BENEFITS
Other states have tried, or at least reviewed, making drug tests a prerequisite for getting public benefits, and some legislators in Wyoming are exploring such a program. But they should take a look at Idaho's study of a similar plan done last year, which found it costs more to implement and run than it saves in benefits denied to the small percentage of recipients who test positive for drugs. (Feb 22) Casper Star-Tribune

IDAHO BUSINESSES GET CREATIVE TO KEEP HEALTH CARE PLANS IN PLACE, CURB COSTS
In 2009, only 56 percent of businesses in Idaho surveyed by the Department of Labor indicated that they provided health care benefits to their employees, but that percentage has rebounded somewhat, and the Idaho Statesman takes a look at how some businesses have adapted to keep coverage in place. (Feb 22) Idaho Statesman

IDAHO GOVERNOR NAMES FRANSEN TO HEAD DEQ
Curt Fransen has been deputy director of the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality since 2007, and on Tuesday, Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter named Fransen as successor to departing director Carol Hardesty. (Feb 22) Idaho Statesman