Idaho Gov. Dirk Kempthorne (R) announced during his State of the State address on Monday that he will not seek re-election for a third term.

During his two terms, Kempthorne has worked with Idaho tribes on environmental, wildlife, gaming and water rights issues. But Republican lawmakers balked at his agreements and fought tribes on taxation and gaming.

Kempthorne's most recent deal involved a $193 million water rights settlement with the Nez Perce Tribe. In his address, he urged lawmakers to ratify the agreement.

"When I first took office, I made it clear that I would not support any negotiations in the SRBA involving the Nez Perce Tribe and the water users that did not protect our state sovereignty and existing water rights," Kempthorne said. "Millions in federal dollars have been set aside for Idaho, and are waiting for this Legislature to now act. This is a solution reached by water users - these are their water rights. Listen to them and ratify this agreement."

Congress approved the settlement late last year by including it in an omnibus appropriations act. The Idaho Legislature and affected users must ratify it before it becomes law.

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Governor Makes Surprise Announcement In State Of The State Address (KBCI 1/10)
Legislators React To State of State Address (KBCI 1/10)