2025 Legislative Session News
Democrats Propose Slate of Solutions for Idaho
On Monday, the Idaho Democratic leadership held a press conference to propose a slate of Democratic solutions that would address the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and set the state on the path to a better future. Senate Democratic Leader Michelle...
“Idaho Parents Need Better Childcare Options” – by Dulce Kersting-Lark
Childcare is a non-negotiable part of parenthood. Every child will need some form of childcare whether they have a parent staying home, a relative willing to give full-time care, or a close-by daycare center. Idaho parents, unfortunately, face more barriers to...
Representative Gannon Urges Virtual Legislature Following Mississippi Coronavirus Outbreak
Boise, Idaho – Earlier this week, 36 people tested positive for coronavirus in Mississippi due to an outbreak at the State Capitol. The outbreak comes after legislators have been meeting in the Capitol for the last several weeks. Around one in six Mississippi...
Over 1300 Pet Friendly License Plates Sold in Idaho
Idaho - The Idaho Transportation office reported that they have officially about 1,300 Pet Friendly Licenses Plates through the end of June and continues to increase every day. In 2019, Representative Melissa Wintrow worked with former Representative Hy Kloc to pass...
“GOP Legislators deliver gut punch to Idaho businesses” – by Rep. Ilana Rubel
In the closing weeks of the 2020 legislative session, it was apparent we were heading into a crisis of unprecedented proportions that would impact not only Idahoans’ health but also our economy, jobs, education system and every other facet of our lives. Businesses had...
“Let Everyone Participate At Our Legislature” – by Rep. John Gannon
Voters rightly elect legislators to be present to debate and vote and Idahoans have a right to participate by viewing the proceedings, communicating their views and participating in public hearings. Citizen participation is expected by the people of Idaho and...
“Our Children Deserve Healthcare Access” – by Sen. David Nelson
When someone suspects that they may have coronavirus, we hope that they immediately take steps to get tested so they know if they should self-isolate. Unfortunately, a growing number of Idaho children have difficulty getting tested and treated for coronavirus because...
California Announces Publicly Funded Travel No Longer Allowed to Idaho
Idaho – On Monday, California announced that it is prohibiting taxpayer-funded travel to Idaho on account of Idaho’s recently passed anti-transgender laws. House Minority Leader Representative Ilana Rubel/(D-Boise) expressed her extreme disappointment in the Idaho...
“Educating Idaho Students After Coronavirus” – by Sen. Ward-Engelking & Rep. Toone
Idaho parents and grandparents like us have been heartbroken watching their children during coronavirus. We know it’s important to keep our students safe and healthy, and we appreciate how difficult it was for educators to revamp their instruction at the drop of a...
“It’s time to restore fairness to our property taxes” – by Rep. Jake Ellis
As an Idaho taxpayer and state representative, it is my priority to address the property tax problem that is crushing everyday Idahoans. Governor Little has proposed the use of pandemic relief funds for lowering property taxes related to emergency services. Let’s be...
US Supreme Court Rules to Protect LGBTQ Individuals from Workplace Discrimination
Idaho – On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to discriminate against employees based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The landmark decision means that LGBTQ individuals across the nation...
Financial help available for Idaho renters
Idaho renters affected by COVID-19 may be eligible for financial assistance through Idaho Housing and Finance Association’s Housing Preservation Program. The program, which is available only to renters, provides short-term rent and utility support for Idahoans...
Representative Sue Chew Helps Secure PPE for Idaho Health Centers
Idaho – On June 11th, Idaho’s Community Health Centers will receive a $200,000 grant from the Cambia Health Foundation and PPE donations from Taiwan through the Idaho Office of Emergency Management with facilitation from the United Way of Treasure Valley, in addition...
Senator Nelson to Attend The Palouse Demands Justice Vigil
Idaho State Capitol – On Wednesday, Senator David Nelson/(D-Moscow) announced he would be attending the Palouse Demands Justice Vigil on June 3, 2020. The vigil is being held in Friendship Square in Moscow, Idaho. Sen. Nelson expressed his appreciation for the vigil...
“Education Should Still Be A Priority” – by Rep. Chris Abernathy
Idaho teachers have had some of the toughest months of their entire career. In all corners of the state, our teachers are learning new skills and adapting their curriculum. Our teachers are committed to educating Idaho students, no matter the obstacles. As a reward,...
“Getting By With A Little Help From Your Legislator” – by Rep. Steve Berch
Most people understand that the role of a legislator is to help write the laws that govern us. That’s what we do from January through March when the state legislature is in session. However, there’s another part of the job that is seldom discussed – being a public...
“Unreliable Broadband is Hurting Idaho Students” – by Sen. David Nelson
At the drop of a hat, Idaho students and teachers have had to completely change their education plans for the school year. They are creating lessons in the virtual world while they are burdened by one of our state’s biggest problems: bad internet. Now, more than ever,...
Senator David Nelson Urges Protestors to Follow Stay-at-Home Order
Moscow, Idaho – On Monday, protestors gathered at Moscow City Council for the “Liberate Moscow” event. The protest was intended to pressure Governor Little to end the current stay-at-home order, which was recently extended to April 30, 2020. Senator David...