Idaho House and Senate Democratic Leaders Condemn New Mid-Year Budget Cut Order as GOP Advances Trump Tax Changes

Today, Idaho House and Senate Democratic leaders responded to a new letter from the Republican co-chairs of the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee directing state agencies to prepare budget reduction plans of 1% to 2% on top of the 3% holdback imposed earlier this fiscal year. The directive comes as Idaho Republicans push for conformity to the federal tax law, which delivers major tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy and large corporations, even as the state budget is strained and the full price tag remains unclear.

Statement from Senate Democratic Leader Melissa Wintrow:

“Let’s be clear about what’s happening. Republicans created a budget mess with reckless tax giveaways tilted toward the wealthy, then imposed a 3% holdback that is already squeezing the services Idaho families pay for and expect. Now, Republican leaders are demanding another round of cuts in the middle of the year to make room for massive tax breaks for corporations and billionaires, including costly corporate write-offs that reward investments made outside Idaho. When law enforcement warns about impacts to public safety, we should listen. When families of children with disabilities are losing access to critical therapies, we should act with care. Idaho leaders should make thoughtful choices, not take a chainsaw to health care, education, and public safety so the biggest winners in the tax code can come out even further ahead.”

Statement from House Democratic Leader Ilana Rubel:

“This letter tells you exactly what Republican budgeting looks like. They pass tax giveaways for the wealthy and well-connected, then stick working families with the consequences. Idahoans feel that in longer waits, slower responses, and programs that cannot keep up. If lawmakers want to move forward with federal tax conformity, they should do the work in the open. Put the real costs on the table. Be clear about who benefits and who is hurt. Then choose targeted provisions that help those who need it. Idaho can balance its budget without shifting the burden onto families and the most vulnerable among us. We should protect the basics people count on and stop writing blank checks for wealthy donors and corporate special interests.”

###