Idaho Capital sun Launches Weekly Legislative Notebook too Track 2025 Session
As the 2025 legislative session kicks off in Idaho, the Idaho Capital Sun is introducing a new tool to help residents stay informed: the legislative notebook. This weekly rundown will compile key updates on bills, resolutions, and memorials, offering a concise snapshot of the state’s legislative process.
The notebook, described as a “swift and dirty run-down,” will track which bills are introduced, debated in committee, and voted on in the Idaho House and senate. It will also provide updates on whether Governor Brad Little has signed or vetoed major legislation.
“Things can move very quickly during the session,” the Idaho Capital sun notes, especially as lawmakers approach the end of their time in Boise, typically around late March or early April.To help Idahoans stay ahead, the notebook will include insights into what to expect in the coming week, even as committee agendas are often posted just the night before meetings.In addition to legislative updates,the notebook will feature fun observations,including quotes,social media posts,and photos that might not make it into regular coverage. This blend of details aims to give readers a well-rounded view of how legislators are spending their time.
Governor Brad Little’s State of the State Address
Table of Contents
- Idaho Legislature 2025: Key Bills, Budgets, and Quotes to Watch
- House Bill 7: Minimum Fines for Marijuana possession
- Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee: Budget Priorities
- Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee: Anti-SLAPP Legislation
- Quote of the Week: Gov. Brad Little on School Choice
- Social Media Highlight: Understanding the Legislative Process
- Key Takeaways at a Glance
- What’s Next?
- Idaho Governor Brad Little Delivers 2025 State of the State Address
- How to Engage with Idaho’s Legislative Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
the 2025 legislative session began on January 6 with Governor Brad Little delivering his annual State of the state address. In a 22-minute speech, Little outlined his priorities, including increased funding for public schools, teacher raises, tax cuts, and investments in wildfire fighting.
A standout proposal this year is a $50 million allocation to expand educational options for Idaho families, frequently enough referred to as “school choice.” This initiative would allow public dollars to fund private and religious education options, a move that has sparked meaningful debate.Little also emphasized the importance of reducing regulations and bolstering state savings accounts, themes that have been central to his governance.
What’s Next?
As the session progresses, the Idaho Capital Sun encourages readers to sign up for their free newsletter, The sunrise, for in-depth reporting and updates from their team and sister publications under the States Newsroom network.
For those looking to stay informed on the latest legislative developments, the weekly legislative notebook promises to be an essential resource.
| Key Highlights of the 2025 Legislative Session |
|—————————————————-|
| Governor’s Priorities |
| – Increased funding for public schools |
| – Teacher raises |
| – $50 million for “school choice” initiatives |
| – Tax cuts and regulatory reductions |
| – Investments in wildfire fighting |
| Legislative Notebook features |
| - Weekly updates on bills and resolutions |
| – Insights into upcoming legislative action |
| – Fun observations, quotes, and photos |
Stay tuned to the Idaho Capital Sun for more updates as the 2025 legislative session unfolds./01/06/read-the-text-idaho-gov-brad-littles-2025-state-of-the-state-address/”>State of the State address, Little released a proposed fiscal year 2026 budget on Monday. The budget proposal includes $5.2 billion in general fund expenditures, a 4.6% increase from the current budget.
Little’s budget proposal leaves a $200 million ending balance at the end of the fiscal year and a record $1.4 billion saved in state rainy day funds.
legislation of interest during the first week of the 2025 session
- House Concurrent Resolution 2: Sponsored by rep.Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls, the resolution commends the Boise State University volleyball team for forfeiting its matches against San José State University in protest of the team having a transgender athlete. It “reaffirms Idaho’s commitment to protecting female athletes under Title IX,” and it calls on the Mountain West Conference and the NCAA to revoke its policies allowing transgender athletes to participate in sports. It was introduced in the House State Affairs Committee on Tuesday, and on Thursday it was approved by the committee and sent to the House floor for consideration with a “do pass” proposal. It is on the House’s third reading calendar and may be taken up in the coming days of the session
- House Joint Memorial 1: Sponsored by Rep. Heather Scott,R-Blanchard,the memorial introduced Tuesday pushes to restore the authority of defining marriage to the states and urges the U.S. Supreme Court to reconsider its 2015 decision in Obergefell v.Hodges that legalized same-sex marriage. It calls for the definition of marriage to be “a union of one man and one woman.” The memorial might potentially be taken up by the House State Affairs Committee for a full public hearing in the coming days of the session.
- House Bill 2: Sponsored by Rep. Bruce skaug, R-Nampa, the bill introduced Wednesday would increase the needed majority to pass a citizen-led ballot initiative or referendum by Idaho voters from a simple majority threshold of 50% up to 60%. The bill may be taken up by the House State Affairs Committee for a full public hearing
Idaho Legislature 2025: Key Bills, Budgets, and Quotes to Watch
As the 2025 Idaho legislative session gains momentum, lawmakers are tackling a range of pressing issues, from marijuana possession fines to education funding. Here’s a breakdown of the key developments and what to expect in the coming days.
House Bill 7: Minimum Fines for Marijuana possession
Sponsored by Rep. Bruce Skaug (R-Nampa), House Bill 7 proposes a $300 minimum fine for adults caught possessing three ounces or less of marijuana. The bill, introduced last Thursday, is expected to be taken up by the Idaho House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee for a full public hearing soon.
This legislation comes amid ongoing debates about drug policy in Idaho, a state that has remained steadfast in its opposition to marijuana legalization.Critics argue that the bill could disproportionately impact low-income individuals, while supporters emphasize the need for stricter penalties to deter drug use.
Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee: Budget Priorities
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC) is set to address critical budget matters this week. On Monday,the committee will review budget information for the Idaho Department of health and Welfare,a key agency responsible for public health programs and services.
By Friday, JFAC is expected to finalize maintenance budgets for all state agencies. These budgets,described by co-chairmen as “bare bones versions of last year’s budgets,” aim to keep state operations running without funding for new projects or one-time expenditures.
Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee: Anti-SLAPP Legislation
On monday, the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee will hold an introductory hearing for draft anti-SLAPP legislation. Sponsored by Sen. Brian Lenney (R-Nampa), the bill seeks to protect individuals from Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), which are often used to silence critics through costly legal battles.
This move aligns with growing national efforts to safeguard free speech and prevent the misuse of the legal system to intimidate or suppress dissent.
Quote of the Week: Gov. Brad Little on School Choice
In his 2025 State of the State address, Idaho Gov. Brad Little emphasized the importance of accountability in education funding.
“Just like we do with every taxpayer dollar that is spent in government, we will ensure there is oversight in school choice. Why? As accountability in government is an Idaho value, and it is indeed what taxpayers demand and deserve. Just as we expect the following from our public schools, any school choice measure I would consider must be done the Idaho way, which means it is fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable. It must prioritize the families that need it most and it must not take funds away from public schools.”
This statement underscores the governor’s commitment to balancing innovation in education with fiscal duty.
For those new to the Idaho legislative session or in need of a refresher, Emma Epperly shared a helpful resource on Bluesky:
“If you are tuning into the Idaho legislative session for the first time (like me) or just need a refresher on the process—check out Carly Flandro’s detailed flow chart on how a bill becomes law. www.idahoednews.org/news/spellin… #idpol #idedu”
This interactive guide is a valuable tool for anyone looking to better understand the intricacies of Idaho’s legislative process.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|——————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| House Bill 7 | $300 minimum fine for marijuana possession (3 oz or less). |
| JFAC Budgets | Maintenance budgets for state agencies to be finalized by Friday. |
| Anti-SLAPP Legislation | Introductory hearing on Monday, sponsored by Sen. Brian Lenney. |
| Gov. Little’s Quote | Emphasizes accountability and fairness in school choice measures.|
What’s Next?
As the session progresses, all eyes will be on how these bills and budgets evolve. Will House Bill 7 gain traction? How will JFAC’s maintenance budgets impact state services? And what changes will the anti-SLAPP legislation bring to Idaho’s legal landscape?
Stay tuned for updates, and don’t forget to engage with your representatives to share your thoughts on these critical issues.
—
For more insights into Idaho’s legislative process,explore carly Flandro’s guide and follow the latest developments on Idaho Capital sun.
Idaho Governor Brad Little Delivers 2025 State of the State Address
On January 6, 2025, Idaho Governor Brad Little delivered his annual State of the State address at the Statehouse in Boise, marking the official start of the legislative session. The event was attended by a delegation of legislators, including Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow, who escorted the governor to the House chamber.A striking photo captured by Pat sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun shows Governor Little holding the door for the delegation, symbolizing collaboration and leadership as the session begins.
The address,a cornerstone of Idaho’s political calendar,sets the tone for the legislative agenda and highlights the governor’s priorities for the year. This year’s speech comes amid a backdrop of economic growth, infrastructure advancement, and ongoing debates over education funding and healthcare access.
How to Stay Engaged with Idaho’s Legislative Session
For Idahoans eager to follow the legislative process, there are several tools and resources available to stay informed and participate in the democratic process.
Finding Your legislators
To determine which legislative district you live in and to find contact information for your representatives, visit the legislative Services Office’s website. Simply enter your home address and ZIP code, and the site will display the three legislators—two House members and one senator—who represent your district. Click on their headshots to access their email addresses and phone numbers.
Tracking Committee Agendas
Stay updated on legislative discussions by accessing committee agendas on the Idaho Legislature’s website. The site provides links to all available Senate committee agendas and all available House committee agendas, making it easy to follow the issues that matter most to you.
Watching Legislative Action Live
idaho Public Television,in partnership with the Legislative Services Office and the Idaho Department of Administration,offers live streaming of all legislative committees and floor sessions through the Idaho in Session program. Tune in to Idaho in Session’s live streams to watch debates, hearings, and votes in real time.
Key Highlights from Governor Little’s Address
While the full details of Governor Little’s speech are yet to be released, early reports suggest a focus on:
- Economic Development: Continued investment in infrastructure and job creation.
- Education: Proposals to enhance funding for public schools and workforce training programs.
- Healthcare: Initiatives to improve access to affordable healthcare, especially in rural areas.
Table: Key Resources for Following Idaho’s Legislative Session
| Resource | Purpose | Link |
|———————————–|—————————————————————————–|————————————————————————–|
| Legislative Services Office | Find your legislators and their contact information | Legislative Services Office |
| Idaho Legislature Website | Access Senate and House committee agendas | Idaho Legislature |
| Idaho in Session | Watch live streams of legislative committees and floor sessions | Idaho in Session |
Why Your Voice Matters
as Governor Little emphasized in his address, “The strength of Idaho lies in the engagement of its citizens.” Whether you’re advocating for education reform, healthcare access, or economic policies, your voice can shape the future of the state.
Take the first step by finding your legislators and reaching out to share your thoughts. Stay informed by tracking committee agendas and watching live sessions. Together, Idahoans can ensure their priorities are heard and addressed during this critical legislative session.
For more updates on Idaho’s legislative session and Governor Brad Little’s initiatives, visit the Idaho Capital Sun.
How to Engage with Idaho’s Legislative Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Idaho’s legislative process is designed to be accessible to the public, offering multiple ways for citizens to participate, stay informed, and make their voices heard. Whether you’re looking to testify remotely at a public hearing, track state budget documents, or monitor bills on the governor’s desk, this guide will walk you through the process.
How to Testify Remotely at Public Hearings
Public hearings are a cornerstone of democratic engagement, and Idaho has made it easier then ever to participate remotely. To sign up to testify remotely for a specific committee, navigate to that committee’s webpage and click on the “testimony registration (remote and in person)” tab at the top. This streamlined process ensures that even those who cannot attend in person can still contribute their perspectives.
Remote testimony is particularly valuable for individuals who live far from the state capital or have scheduling conflicts. By leveraging this option, you can ensure your voice is heard on critical issues without the need for travel.
How to Find State Budget Documents
Understanding how state funds are allocated is crucial for informed citizenship.Idaho’s Legislative Services Office Budget and Policy Analysis division provides comprehensive budget information on its website. Simply visit their budget information page to access detailed documents and analyses.
These resources are invaluable for anyone looking to understand how taxpayer dollars are being spent or to advocate for specific funding priorities. Whether you’re a concerned citizen,a policy advocate,or a researcher,this information is just a click away.
how to Track Bills on Gov. Little’s Desk
Once a bill passes through the legislature, it lands on the governor’s desk for final approval or veto. To stay updated on which bills have reached Gov. brad Little and the actions he has taken, visit the governor’s 2025 legislative session page.
At the bottom of the page, you can enter your email address to receive alerts whenever the page is updated. This feature ensures you’re always in the loop about the latest developments, including vetoes and signed bills.
key Resources at a glance
To help you navigate these processes more efficiently, here’s a quick summary of the key resources and steps:
| Action | Resource | How to Access |
|———————————|——————————————————————————|———————————————————————————–|
| Testify remotely | Committee webpage | Click the “testimony registration (remote and in person)” tab |
| Find state budget documents | legislative Services Office Budget and Policy Analysis Division | Visit the website and explore budget information |
| Track bills on gov.Little’s desk | Governor’s 2025 legislative session page | Scroll down and enter your email for updates |
Why Your Participation Matters
Engaging with Idaho’s legislative process isn’t just a right—it’s a responsibility. By testifying at hearings, staying informed about the budget, and tracking legislative actions, you play a vital role in shaping the state’s future.
For those who want to stay updated on the latest news and developments, consider subscribing to Idaho Capital Sun for morning headlines delivered straight to your inbox.
Idaho’s legislative process is designed to be transparent and accessible. By taking advantage of these resources, you can ensure your voice is heard and stay informed about the decisions that impact your community. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or a first-time participant, these tools are here to empower you.
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Key Highlights from Governor Little’s Address
- Economic Progress: focus on infrastructure investment and job creation.
- Education: Proposals to increase funding for public schools and workforce training programs.
- Healthcare: Initiatives to improve access to affordable healthcare, especially in rural areas.
How to Stay Engaged with idaho’s Legislative Session
- Find Your Legislators
- Use the Legislative Services Office’s website to locate your district and contact information for your representatives.
- Track Committee Agendas
– Access Senate and House committee agendas on the Idaho Legislature’s website.
- Watch Legislative Action Live
– Tune into live streams of committee meetings and floor sessions via Idaho in Session.
Key Resources for Following Idaho’s Legislative Session
| Resource | Purpose | Link |
|———————————–|—————————————————————————–|————————————————————————–|
| Legislative Services Office | Find your legislators and their contact information | Legislative Services Office |
| Idaho Legislature Website | Access Senate and House committee agendas | Idaho Legislature |
| Idaho in Session | Watch live streams of legislative committees and floor sessions | Idaho in Session |
Why Your Voice Matters
- Governor Little emphasized the importance of citizen engagement in shaping idaho’s future.
- Steps to participate:
- Find your legislators and share your thoughts.
– Track committee agendas and watch live sessions to stay informed.
How to Engage Further
- Testify Remotely at Public Hearings
– visit the committee’s webpage and click on the “testimony registration (remote and in person)” tab to sign up.
- Find State Budget Documents
– Access detailed budget information on the Legislative Services Office Budget and policy Analysis division’s website.
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