Legislative Budget Writers OK Funding for Broadband Lawsuit

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Legislative budget writers have approved $229,000 in spending to cover the latest round of legal fees in Idaho's appeal over a voided school broadband contract.

The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee unanimously approved the request Friday morning. Last year a judge voided the $60 million statewide contract for public schools after finding that it was awarded illegally. Next month the Idaho Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments in the appeal, but it could be months before the court issues a decision.

The Idaho Educational Network had provided broadband internet to 200 Idaho high schools since 2010 but experienced financial and legal trouble when a rejected vendor filed a lawsuit over the way the contract was awarded.