Legislative Session Update: Week 1
The six Democratic senators
The start of a new session
(This update is slightly cynical, I apologize in advance)
Day one is always the state of the State address. This year, the address was benign. Fluff, without substance. I felt it did not adequately portray the state of the State. It was more reflective of the Governor’s admiration for the Trump administration than the budget mess we are facing this year.
The address started with “Donald Trump has given lots of kudos to Idaho”, followed by “how much Donald Trump looks up to Idaho.” The governor is “happy” to be included in the Trump administration, saying the Biden administration “kept him in the dark”. (That’s pretty much how the Democrats in the Idaho legislature feel!)
“Partnering with the Trump administration”, Idaho will move forward with energy production, mineral extraction, and follow RFK’s recommendations to Make America Healthy Again.
The Governor again mentioned that Idaho is the least regulated state in the union. (Don’t Tread on Me, really??)
“Enduring Idaho”
This is the Governor's name for his new plan. In this plan, he committed to keeping public schools whole while “right-sizing funding” for online schools. He also said he wants to safeguard access to healthcare, referencing the $1 billion dollar influx of federal funds for rural health care. There was no mention of protecting the Medicaid Expansion program. His signature piece of legislation, Idaho Launch, will not be subject to cuts (but I believe it will be used as a bargaining chip to further reduce income taxes for corporations and those who make over $500,000.00 annually). All in all, I was disappointed with his speech.
During the first week we are required to attend several training sessions, including Respectful Workplace, Ethics in the Workplace, Active shooter and Capitol security measures.
I have been meeting with legislative advisors, perusing upcoming proposed legislation, and conversing with legislators on both sides of the aisle.
This beautiful piece hanging in the oculus of the rotunda has replaced the Idaho flag in celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States
Committees:
Agriculture:
No meetings scheduled this week
Local Government and Taxation:
No meetings scheduled this week
Resource and Environment:
We heard 3 RS’s (routing slips) from Idaho Water User’s Association and Senator Anthon relating to water districts, PERSI and, the domestic well exemption bill from last session. Clean-up and clarifying language for all three. The Committee will vote on these next week.
