An Idaho legislative Ethics committee said a state lawmaker did not act inappropriately
The panel voted 4-3 to dismiss a part of an ethics complaint brought against state Rep. Phil Hart, but delayed ruling on whether the northern Idaho Republican used his office to get special treatment, citing ongoing legal proceedings. The House Ethics Committee launched an investigation into Hart's conduct and role on the committee earlier this month. Hart, who is running unopposed for a third term, has long argued that income taxes are unconstitutional, waging legal fights with the state and federal government. In the last year, the Internal Revenue Service has filed nearly $300,000 in tax liens against Hart. The state tax commission says he owes another $53,000 in Idaho income taxes, interest and penalties.
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