Institute for Legislative Analysis

Barbara Ehardt

This bill prohibits local governments across the state from imposing any ordinances which restrict the ability of consumers to access the energy source of their choice, including electric, natural gas, propane, and other sources. As a result, the bill would preempt local bans on natural gas hook-up and all-electric building codes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens both property rights and individual liberties. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Protecting Consumer Choice by Prohibiting Local Governments from Imposing All-Electric Building Codes and Anti-Natural Gas Ordinances.

This bill allows local school districts to authorize virtual charter schools. Additionally, the permits charter school to consider the "at-risk makeup" of students at a public charter school during the certification, accountability, and renewal process. This ensures that the charter schools who face greater challenges surrounding unaccompanied youth, high absenteeism, etc. are not unfairly penalized. Support is the Limited Government Position as expanding school choice through charter school establishment is critical to creating a "market in education" which improves the educational outcomes for all students.

Improving Educational Outcomes for Students by Allowing School Districts to Authorize Virtual Charter Schools.

This bill enacts a series of new regulations on the franchise agreements between automobile manufacturers and dealers. The regulations primarily benefit dealers and surround the termination procedures of the agreements and how the mediation process must be conducted. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to interfere in the private contracting agreements between businesses absent cases of fraud or criminal activity. This bill represents one of the worst examples of cronyism by utilizing the power of government to provide dealers with more favorable outcomes in their private contract negotiations with manufacturers, which ultimately leads to higher vehicle prices.

Hiking New Vehicle Prices through Additional Government Mandates on Private Contracting Agreements Which Benefit Automotive Dealers at the Expense of Manufacturers.

This bill implements a few reforms to tighten work requirements under the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP). As a result, there are less ways for recipients age 18-59 to avoid compliance with the employment and training requirements in order to receive benefits under the welfare program. Support is the Limited Government Position as while there are still some remaining loopholes to the work requirements that should be closed, this bill serves as a strong step in the right direction of reducing government dependency and helping work-ready adults to become self-sufficient.

Promoting Self-Sufficiency by Closing Some of the Work Requirement Loopholes Within the SNAP Welfare Program.

This bill asserts that parents are the "primary stakeholders" in education and establishes a framework which provides parents certain rights. Under the bill, parental consent is required for a student to take any noncurricular-related student survey, well-being questionnaire, or health screenings. Additionally, public schools are forbidden from enacting any policies which prohibit school personnel from notifying parents of a student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being, among other protections. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights in their child's education is a critical element of a free society. This measure ensures children are not subjected to sensitive topics without the consent of parents.

Strengthening the Integrity of the Public Education System by Asserting Parents are the "Primary Stakeholders" in Education and Providing Parents a Series of Rights.

This bill prohibits departments of the state from donating or sponsoring any non-governmental events or organizations unless required by law or approved by the Governor. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure aims to increase government integrity by preventing waste and misuse of public funds which cost taxpayers and erode public trust.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting State Government Departments from Sponsoring or Donating to Non-Governmental Events or Organizations.

This bill, Coach Kennedy's Law, guarantees the right of public college, school district, and charter school employees to pray during free time. This bill follows the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, involving a high school football coach praying after football games in neighboring Washington. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens the First Amendment rights of individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs across the public education system.

Strengthening Religious Liberties at Public Schools and State Institutions of Higher Education by Ensuring Employees are Permitted to Pray During Free Time.

This bill expands the ability of cow, sheep, or goat share owners to consume "raw milk" through a herd share agreement. The bill removes the limit on the number of animals allowed in a herd share and also eliminates a number of other regulations surrounding milk quality tests. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens individual liberties and the ability of individuals to obtain and consume raw milk.

Strengthening Individual Liberties and "Food Freedom" by Reducing Restrictions on Personal Raw Milk Consumption through Herd Shares.

This bill restricts the ability of liquor licensees from selling or transferring their license. Under the bill, licenses issued on or after July 1, 2023 may not be transferred and any licenses that are held before that date may only be transferred once. Idaho utilizes a quota system based on population to limit the number of liquor licenses issued, which has made the licenses very valuable considering it can take nearly a decade to receive one due to the waitlist. The licensing system is designed to limit liquor so that beer captures more of the market. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill merely further worsens the state's draconian liquor license system and prevents the market from effectively allocating the limited number of permits that have been issued. Lawmakers should eliminate all limits on liquor license issuance while figuring out a way to make amends with many of the holders of existing licenses who have paid exorbitant sums (around $350,000) to purchase the licenses on the market.

Worsening the State's Draconian Liquor License Regime by Imposing Additional Anti-Competitive Prohibitions on the Sale or Transfer of Licenses.

This bill strengthens school choice by ensuring all school districts maintain an open enrollment policy which allows students to transfer both in-district and out-of-district. The bill also ensures that schools cannot discriminate against applicants based on their residential location or socioeconomic status. Support is the Limited Government Position as while this bill largely codifies best practices utilized by many school districts throughout the state, the bill nevertheless strengthens school choice by ensuring parents are able to select the best option for their child, regardless of where they reside.

Expanding School Choice by Ensuring School Districts Maintain Open Enrollment Policies Including In-District Student Transfers.

This bill appropriates $124.1 million to the Department of Commerce for broadband infrastructure, using funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act Capital Projects Fund. This is a supplemental appropriation which is on top of over $100 million in funding for broadband infrastructure expected to be provided in S 1159. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as providing "broadband service" is not one of the core and essential duties of government. The private sector and the free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. Additionally, significant advances in satellite technology may make most broadband expansion projects unnecessary.

Fueling Wasteful and Unnecessary Spending by Providing an Additional $124.1 Million to the Department of Commerce for Broadband Infrastructure Grants.

This bill appropriates over $27.2 million for various Health Education Programs. For example, the bill appropriates $7.2 million to the University of Washington School of Medicine's WWAMI program. The University of Washington, known as the "nation's largest fetal tissue bank," offers clinical clerkships with Planned Parenthood and was recently sued for conducting a fetal tissue trafficking operation with the organization. Additionally, the University provides numerous courses surrounding critical race theory, LGBTQ health disparities, and transgender healthcare clinical rotations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to fund the college and higher educational costs of individuals who choose to pursue such career paths. This bill is especially troublesome considering the usage of taxpayer funds surrounding abortion and politicized trainings.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Aborted Fetus Trafficking and LGBTQ and Transgender Medical Training through a $27 Million Appropriation for Health Education Programs.

This bill appropriates over $204 million to the Department of Commerce, an increase of over $100 million, or 103.2% over the previous fiscal year, driven largely by an appropriation of $100 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for broadband infrastructure. This infrastructure is in addition to the $124 million in supplemental appropriations provided in S 1129. The remainder of the funding is to aid "in the creation of jobs, generating economic growth, creating economic opportunities, and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Idaho Citizens."Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats within the Department of Commerce - is best equipped to drive economic growth. Furthermore, the state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a $204 million Appropriation to the Department of Commerce for Unnecessary Initiatives.

This bill appropriates over $2.3 million to the Commission on the Arts. The appropriation is for 10 full time employees as well as grant issuance to "the arts to all Idahoans." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as providing funding for the arts is not a core nor necessary function of the government, rather a role of the private sector through foundations and philanthropy. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Ballooning Spending for Unnecessary Initiatives within the Commission on the Arts.

This appropriations bill includes multiple end-of-year fund transfers but most notably provides $15 million to the Idaho Workforce Development Council for "semiconductor workforce grants." This funding is directed to Micron Technology to support their new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Treasure Valley. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this cronyism benefits a single government-favored company while shifting tax burdens onto other businesses and industries not favored by government. Instead of this cronyism, lawmakers should lower tax rates for all businesses and empower the free-market to expand economic growth.

Expanding Cronyism by Channeling $15 Million in Taxpayer Funds to Enrich Semiconductor Manufacturer Micron Technology through "Semiconductor Workforce Grants".

This bill appropriates over $86 million to the Department of Lands, an increase of nearly $5 million over the previous fiscal year, and a 30% increase over the previous 3 years. The appropriation includes providing the agency an additional 10 full-time employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to own and properly manage land. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending and Growing Government Bureaucracy through an $86 Million Appropriation to the Department of Lands - a 30% Hike Over the Past 3 Years.

This bill appropriates over $500,000 to the Commission on Hispanic Affairs, which serves as a "liaison between the community and government entities." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this entity serves as an unnecessary bureaucracy. It is the role and duty of government to treat individuals of every background equally, and taxpayers should not be forced to fund commissions for select interests. Additionally, the state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through and Unnecessary $500,000 Appropriation to the Commission on Hispanic Affairs.

This bill appropriates over $68 million to the Department of Parks and Recreation, which represents a 52% increase within the past 3 years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is much better equipped to manage property and provide recreational services. The state should work to shrink its land holdings and reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through a $68 Million Appropriation to the Department of Parks and Recreation - a 52% Increase within the Past 3 Years.

This bill is designed to prevent large data centers from "double dipping" by receiving two separate economic development incentives for the same project. While the bill applies to all data centers, it primarily impacts Meta (Facebook) and its project in the City of Kuna. Due to the fact Meta is already eligible for a sales tax exemption, this bill prevents the company from also receiving property tax exemptions under the urban renewal district designation. As a result, property owners in Kuna will not be forced to subsidize the infrastructure costs of Meta, and instead receive tax relief due to the tax assessment on the Meta facility. Support is the Limited Government Position as while Meta (or any individual company) should not be provided any tax exemption or subsidy, this bill at least limits the extent of the cronyism. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Instead of attempting to centrally plan the economy, lawmakers should cut taxes across all industries, which will allow the free market to provide far greater job and business growth.

Providing Property Tax Relief to Homeowners by Blocking Crony Subsidies to Meta (Facebook) and Other Woke Corporations.

This bill establishes a maximum tax of 50 cents per cigar. Under existing law, tobacco products including cigars are subject to a 40% wholesale tax. This bill is designed to provide a more equitable taxation structure as retailers and consumers of premium cigars are subject to much higher levels of taxation. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction. Tobacco usage is an individual liberty, and products should only be subject to the standard sales tax rate. Users should not be punished through a 40% "sin tax".

Reforming the Tax Code within the Cigar Industry to End Excessive Taxation of Premium Cigars.

This bill appropriates over $37 million to the University of Idaho Agriculture Research and Extension Services to fund over 340 full time positions. The staff "conduct research on a range of topics related to food systems, health and community development, water resources, plant science, climate change and much more." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the vast majority of this funding is for politicized and completely unnecessary research initiatives. The private sector (private companies, philanthropy and foundations) is the best institution to determine the need and fund such research initiatives. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Funding Politicized Research on Climate Change, Community Development and Other Wasteful Initiatives by Appropriating $37 Million to the University of Idaho Agricultural Research Program.

This bill appropriates over $149 million for the Department of Health and Welfare, behavioral health services, representing a 21% increase over the past three years. Part of the funding ($3 million) may be used for implementation of "Adverse Childhood Events" training to teach parents how to parent their children, which has been used as a vehicle for Critical Race Theory (CRT). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill contains multiple provisions (such as teaching parents how to parent their children) which expand the size and role of government beyond its core and necessary duties. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a $149 Million Appropriation to the Department of Health and Welfare Behavioral Health Services - a 21% Hike over the Past 3 Years.

This bill appropriates $500,000 to the Rural Nursing Loan Repayment Fund. This program provides taxpayer-funded loan repayment to nurses working in regions with populations below 20,000. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to determine the need and distribution of nurses across the state. Taxpayers in urban areas should not be forced to subsidize the amenities of individuals who choose to locate in rural or other portions of the state where nurses may not be as accessible.

Growing Government Central Planning by Forcing Taxpayers to Pay Off the Student Loan Debt of Nurses in Rural Areas.

This bill creates a new "state directed payment" program under the state's Medicaid welfare program which was expanded under Obamacare. The bill ultimately results in higher payments to hospitals and healthcare providers by gaming the federal Medicaid system. . Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows out of control Medicaid spending and places the state at even greater dependency on federal funds - a significant liability if federal funding is cut. The state and federal government must work to shrink the Medicaid system. The out of control spending, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in existing federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Medicaid Spending Under Obamacare Through a New "State Directed Payment" Scheme to Hospitals which Games the System to Extract Additional Federal Funds.

This bill prohibits state and local governments from imposing any additional regulations on digital assets such as bitcoin, including taxes or restrictions on the holding or mining of digital currencies. Additionally, the bill bars the state from participating in the use, development, or testing of a central bank digital currency. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill protects civil liberties by preventing creation of a government currency that allows government to track and monitor every consumer transaction. Bitcoin and other digital currencies also serve as a critical safeguard for the U.S. monetary system, especially considering the disastrous policies and actions being taken by the Federal Reserve.

Protecting Civil Liberties by Banning Central Bank Digital Currencies and Preventing Localities from Imposing Regulations on Bitcoins and Other Digital Assets.

This bill prohibits state agencies and departments from donating to nongovernmental organizations or sponsoring their events without written permission from the director of such department. However, the bill does provide certain exceptions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to increasing government integrity and preventing waste and misuse of public funds which cost taxpayers and erode public trust. Lawmakers can strengthen these restrictions by removing the exceptions granted to schools and certain boards.

Under current law, an individual owner of an electrical contracting business is required to employ a full-time journeyman or master electrician. This bill requires the journeyman to now have over two thousand hours of documented experience as a licensed journeyman electrician. The bill also no longer allows an owner to act as their own journeyman electrician unless they too meet the experience requirement. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill is primarily designed to restrict competition by making it harder to start an electrical contracting business.

Restricting Competition Through an Overreaching New Mandate Which Forces Electrical Contracting Businesses to Employ an Electrician with a Greater Amount of Experience.

This bill prohibits localities from regulating the possession, sale, transfer, and manufacture of knives. Exceptions are provided under the bill that would allow schools, court houses, law enforcement and involuntary confinement facilities, and political subdivisions that regulate child care to regulate knives. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms (including knives) is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure also helps protect against undue local regulation of the knife industry.

Strengthening Individual Liberties by Preventing Localities from Infringing the Right to Own or Carry Knives.

This bill enacts the Commercial Property Assessed Capital Expenditure (C-PACE) Act, which will provide financing to commercial property owners for certain government-approved improvements such as increased energy efficiency. Under the program localities may issue bonds (debt) to finance the improvements, which are then repaid through an additional assessment on their property. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only is it not the proper role of government to compete in the lending industry, but taxpayer funds are unnecessarily placed at risk in the event of a default. Furthermore, the C-PACE program creates additional complications in the mortgage industry concerning lien priority and debt recovery.

Competing With the Private Lending Industry and Placing Taxpayer Funds at Risk through the Establishment of a  Commercial Property Assessed Capital Expenditure (C-PACE) Program.

This bill appropriates over $19 million and 16 full-time positions to the Office of Species Conservation for 2025, growing the budget by over 34% in the last three years and adding one new full-time position. Additionally, the budget includes over $18 million in federal grants, subjecting the agency to additional federal control and regulation. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is the best equipped to advance wildlife conservation through charitable endeavors and private operations, and this measure unnecessarily grows the size of a state agency.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Expanding the Office of Species Conservation Through a Bloated Budget and Expansion of Government Bureaucracy.

This bill appropriates over $2.2 million and establishes 10 full-time positions to the Commission on the Arts for 2025. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as providing funding for the arts is not a core nor necessary function of the government, rather a role of the private sector through foundations and philanthropy. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

This bill imposes new wage regulations on employers who hire prisoners, stipulating the prisoners employed with a private employer must receive the same salary range offered to other employees based on experience, education, and other qualifications. The bill also requires that the employed prisoner be given all benefits offered to other similarly situated employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill will likely reduce employment opportunities for incarcerated individuals - which may spike recidivism. Wage requirements - like all government price controls - price individuals out of the market whose skills or situation (criminal risk) do not match the state's lofty wage and other employee benefit mandates.

Reducing Employment Opportunities for Incarcerated Individuals by Imposing Wage Requirements onto Employers.

This bill prohibits the use of taxpayer funds to pay for any surgical operation or medical intervention that seeks "to affirm the individual's perception of the individual's sex in a way that is inconsistent with the individual's biological sex." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill prevents further growth of the government welfare state. Additionally, taxpayers - many of whom may have critical views of affirming "gender dysphoria" - should not be forced to pay for such services.

Protecting Taxpayers from Being Forced to Fund Surgeries and Prescriptions for Gender Dysphoria.

This bill provides 11 full-time positions and appropriates over $12.6 million to the Office of Energy and Mineral Resources for 2025, a budget increase from 2022 nearly four and a half times higher than what would be recommended by inflationary pressures and growth. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not government central planning - is the best mechanism to advance energy development. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through an Over $12.6 Million Appropriation (Quadrupled since 2022) to the Office of Energy and Mineral Resources.

This bill allows mental and behavioral health providers who are licensed in other states to provide services in Idaho through "telehealth" (utilizing the internet or video call to provide diagnoses and prescribe medication). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces the shortage of mental and behavioral health providers and improves the ability of patients to receive attentive and timely treatment.

Expanding Competition and Availability of Mental Health Services by Allowing Providers in Other States to Provide Services Through Telehealth.

This bill appropriates over $4.5 billion to fund the state's Medicaid system which was expanded under Obamacare. This appropriation represents an over 58% increase in spending within the past 3 years and includes additional covered services for recipients and higher reimbursement rates for providers under the welfare program. While this appropriation is $150 million less than another Medicaid budget proposed this session (H 334), it is still $829 million higher than other proposals which account for the removal of 75,000 individuals who are receiving benefits but are not eligible for the program. According to the Federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Idaho has one of the highest rates of improper Medicaid payment in the nation - a staggering 39.8% in 2019. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency under the state's Medicaid welfare program by growing benefits and failing to remove ineligible recipients. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Democratic lawmakers who voted against the bill due to the lower appropriation compared to HB 334 were recorded as opposing the limited government position.

Increasing Government Dependency and Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through a $4.5 Billion Appropriation for the State Medicaid System Under Obamacare.

This bill prohibits the Department of Health and Welfare from seeking or implementing new Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) state plan amendments or waivers that would expand coverage or increase any cost to the state without explicit legislative authority. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces government dependency and helps protects taxpayers from runaway spending under the state's Medicaid welfare program.

Protecting Taxpayers from Ballooning Medicaid Welfare Spending by Requiring Legislative Approval for Expansion.

This bill extends the duration of postpartum coverage provided Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) from 60 days to 1 year. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency under the state's Medicaid welfare program. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency and Ballooning Medicaid Welfare Spending by Hiking Postpartum Coverage from 60 Days to 12 Months.

This bill establishes a new health insurance mandate which requires most healthcare policies offered in the state that cover prescription contraceptive drugs to cover a 6-month supply of the drugs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents an individual or business from selecting a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals choosing to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating Health Insurance Companies Cover a 6-Month Supply of Contraceptive Drugs.

This bill appropriates over $4.7 billion to the Department of Health and Welfare for the state's Medicaid system which it expanded under Obamacare. Spending has grown by over 33.8% in the last three years, and this bill would authorize the creation of 24.5 additional full-time positions to expand administrative overhead within the department. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency and wasteful spending within the state's Medicaid welfare program The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency and Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through an Over $4.7 Billion Appropriation for the State's Expanded Medicaid System under Obamacare.

This bill strengthens existing state law which prohibits outside groups from funding the administration of election operations, to clarify that no state official or employee (currently county and local election officials) may accept or expend private funds on election administration. The bill is in response to the over $400 million in "Zuckerbucks" and other outside funds that were provided to influence elections across the nation. Support is the Limited Government Position as the private funding of election operations introduces serious concerns over their integrity and fairness of election outcomes, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Increasing Election Integrity by Strengthening Prohibitions on the Usage of Private Funds for Election Administration.

This bill directs sales and use tax revenue to be withheld from any city or county which refuses to investigate or enforce any felony provision under state law. The bill is largely in response to localities across the nations whose prosecutors (typically receiving financial support from George Soros) refuse to enforce or prosecute certain crimes. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety serve as essential components of government. Unfortunately, this bill is especially necessary due to many so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by radical-left billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Increasing Public Safety by Withholding Tax Revenue from Localities Which Fail to Prosecute Felony Crime.

This bill creates the "Idaho Launch Grant Program" to provide grants of at least $8,500 to high school graduates "pursuing education or training for an in-demand career," which may be used for college tuition, industry certification assessments, and other educational expenses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this wealth redistribution scheme enriches individuals who choose to pursue college or the trades at the expense of others who may choose to start a business or other career path not requiring costly training. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Expanding Wealth Redistribution and Out-of-Control Spending by Providing High School Grads with $8,500 Grants for Colleges or "In-Demand Career" Training Under the Idaho Launch Program.

This bill allows professional counselors and marriage and family therapists to opt out of counseling or serving a client "regarding goals, outcomes, or behaviors" due to "sincerely held principles." Support is the Limited Government Position as businesses and individuals should have the freedom to contract and not be forced to provide a service that violates their beliefs.

Protecting the Religious Liberties of Counselors and Therapists by Ensuring They Are Not Forced to Violate their Sincerely Held Principles.

This bill enacts several reforms to the state's occupational licensing laws, such as allowing individuals with 4 years of work experience in another state or the military to receive a license to work in Idaho. The bill also allows for issuance of a conditional license with a 1-year probationary period to individuals with prior criminal convictions, rather than denial of an application. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing unnecessary employment barriers. Ultimately, the private sector, via certifications, rating systems, and the free market, is much better equipped to provide consumer protection while also ensuring competition and low consumer costs. Most government licensing entities are overly restrictive and are largely advocated by special interests seeking to restrict competition in the marketplace.

Reducing Employment Barriers and Expanding Competition by Enacting Occupational Licensing Reform.

This bill, the Idaho Dietary Supplement Act, protects the production, distribution, and use of dietary supplements that are in compliance with federal law and regulations as of July 1, 2022, even if federal law or regulations change in the future. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens individual liberties by helping protect the freedom of Idahoans to purchase the vitamins and other nutritional supplements that they - not federal bureaucrats - want to consume.

Protecting the Ability to Purchase and Consume Dietary Supplements Regardless of Future Changes in Federal Law or Regulations.

This bill prohibits state officials and employees from expending public funds on membership fees or dues to any outside organization unless required by law. Exemptions are made for purposes relating to employment or professional licensure. Currently government agencies, commissions, and the legislature spend millions of dollars annually on membership and association dues. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure aims to increase government integrity by preventing waste and misuse of public funds which cost taxpayers and erode public trust.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting State Employees from Expending Public Funds on Membership Fees or Dues of Outside Organizations.

This bill prohibits localities from requiring the installation of an electric vehicle circuit as part of any new home construction. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect against overreaching local regulations that drive-up building costs. Homebuyers - not politicians - are best equipped to determine whether they should equip their private homes with charging infrastructure.

Combatting Local Government Overreach by Preventing Localities from Mandating Installation of Electric Vehicle Circuits in New Construction.

This bill appropriates over $36 million and 267.20 full-time positions to the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses for 2025, funding a number of runaway expenditures. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as ultimately, the private sector, via certifications, rating systems, and the free market, is much better equipped to provide consumer protection while also ensuring competition and low consumer costs. Most government licensing entities are overly restrictive and are largely advocated by special interests seeking to restrict competition in the marketplace. Additionally, the state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending and Regulatory Overreach Through an Over $36 Million Appropriation to the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses.

This bill appropriates over $169 million and 385.02 full-time positions to the Department of Environmental Quality for 2024, which represents an increase of nearly double the amount prescribed for inflation and general growth. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this state agency is tasked with a litany of unnecessary initiatives and grant programs. Additionally, the state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through a $169 Million Appropriation  to the Department of Environmental Quality.

This bill appropriates over $203 million and 48 full-time positions to the Department of Commerce for 2025 to cover the agency spending that has grown more than four and a half times in its base appropriates in 2022. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents an enormous hike in spending to an entity engaged in numerous unnecessary initiatives and increases the state's reliance in federal funding. The funding provided under the bill for broadband also enriches woke left-wing companies such as Comcast. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through an Over $203 Million Appropriation (450% Increase) to the Department of Commerce.

Under current law, the state and all taxing entities must publish the information regarding any personal service contract entered that is over $10,000 annual payment, regardless of where the funds are derived from. This bill would increase the report threshold requirement from $10,000 to $30,000. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill weakens transparency and makes it harder for individuals, the press and government watchdog organizations to hold officials accountable and report on government operations.

Weakening Government Transparency and Accountability by Increasing the Reporting Threshold for Service Contracts from $10,000 to $30,000.

This bill allows the state Treasurer to hold up to 7.5% in state funds in physical gold and silver, so long as the assets are maintained security in a depository specifically built for precious metals located in Idaho or in an Idaho-charted bank or credit union. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure taxpayers are diversified and protected in the event of extreme inflation or a hyper-inflation scenario. This is especially critical considering the reckless policies of the Federal Reserve, such as quantitative easing.

Safeguarding Taxpayer Funds from Run-Away Inflation by Allowing the State Treasurer to Invest "Idle Money" in Gold and Silver.

This bill allows professional counselors and marriage and family therapists to opt-out of "counseling in support of goals, outcomes, or behaviors" due to "sincerely held religious, moral, or ethical principles." Support is the Limited Government Position as businesses and individuals should have the freedom to contract and not be forced to provide a service that violates their beliefs.

This bill, called the Parental Rights in Medical Decision-Making, protects a parents' right to make health care decisions for their children and guarantee access to their children's medical records. Specifically, the bill prohibits an individual - unless provided by court order - to furnish a health care service or solicit to furnish a health care service to a minor child without obtaining the prior consent of the minor's parent, with exceptions during medical emergencies. The bill also prohibits a health care provider or government entity form denying a minor's parent access to health information that is requested by the parent. Those subject to violations of these provisions make seek relief through a private right of action. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect individual liberties and promote child safety by ensuring parents are making the medical decisions for their minor children.

Strengthening Parental Rights by Preventing Minor Medical Care without Parental Consent and Ensuring Parent Access to Child's Medical Records.

This bill, the Equality in Financial Services Act, prohibits financial institutions with assets of more than $100 billion from "utilizing a social credit score to directly or indirectly decline to provide full and equal enjoyment in the provision of financial services." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this government intrusion into the marketplace infringes the right of private financial service companies to set their own policies and coverage decisions. Instead of weaponizing government, lawmakers should instead work to reduce regulations and expand competition so the free marketplace can better reward and punish financial companies based on the policies they enact.

Imposing Overreaching New Regulations on the Financial Service Industry by Banning Social Credit Scores.

This bill appropriates over $700 million for state colleges and universities and the State Board of Education, including funding for nearly 5,000 government employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e., tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Ballooning Spending to Over $700 Million for Colleges and Universities and Funding for Nearly 5,000 Employees.

This bill, based on a similar bill enacted in Texas, makes it a state crime for illegal immigrants to enter Idaho directly from a foreign country outside of an official port of entry. To enforce the new law, the bill allows local law enforcement officers to check the immigration status of individuals and permits a magistrate judge to order people who violate the law to return to their country of origin. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to enforce our nation's immigration laws not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening National Security by Prohibiting Illegal Immigrants from Entering the State.

This bill prohibits public institutions of higher education (colleges and universities) from asking prospective job or student applicants to provide a diversity statement. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect free speech as well as taxpayer funds from being utilized to promote politicized DEI efforts which sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government.

Protecting Students and Staff at Public Colleges and Universities from being Forced to Provide Diversity Statements in the Application Process or as a Condition of Employment.

Under current law, employers are protected from civil liability when allowing or not prohibiting the lawful storage of firearms by employees in their personal motor vehicles on the employer's business premises. This bill would expand those protections to include employers who allow or don't prohibit the lawful carrying of a firearm on an employee's person. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure helps protect employers from civil liability for supporting their employees' Second Amendment rights and ability to defend themselves.

Strengthening Second Amendment Rights by Providing Immunity to Employers Who Allow Employee Concealed Carry.

This bill requires individuals who are paid to gather signatures for initiatives and referenda to identify themselves as such when gathering signatures. The paid gatherers must verbally tell voters they are paid, wear a badge indicating they are being paid, and prominently note on their petition that they are being paid to collect the signatures. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps to combat abuse within the petition initiative process which has resulted in passage of multiple big government policies.

Increasing the Integrity of Ballot Initiatives Through Transparency of Paid Signature Gatherers.

This bill appropriates over $87 million and over 190 full-time positions to the Department of Park and Recreation for 2025, an increase more than two and a half times from 2022 when accounting for inflation. The bill also creates seven new full-time positions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is much better equipped to manage property and provide recreational services. The state should work to shrink its land holdings and rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through an Over $87.9 Million Appropriation (250% increase since 2022) to the Department of Parks and Recreation.

This bill increases the program maintenance budget for the Commission on Hispanic Affairs to an amount 54% higher than what would be appropriate taking inflation into account. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this frivolous commission is outside the proper role of government and a waste of taxpayer money.

Promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Policies Through the Funding of the Commission on Hispanic Affairs.

This bill appropriates over $84 million and 20 full-time positions to the Workforce Development Council for 2025, which is a budgetary growth more than three and a half times what is needed for inflationary growth from 2022. The bill also creates three new full-time positions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill preserves and expands an unnecessary government agency, as the private sector is best equipped to advanced workforce development. Lawmakers should instead repeal overly restrictive licensing regulations that merely serve to limit competition in the workplace. Additionally, the state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful Spending Through an Over $84 Million Appropriation (350% Increase since 2022) to the Workforce Development Council.

This bill further builds upon legislation passed last year (H 433) which established a "public school health insurance participation fund." This fund helped subsidize the cost of transitioning government school employees onto the state's medical and dental insurance plan (which represented a significant benefit increase for employees at a cost to taxpayers of $1.26 billion over the next decade). This bill (H 203) removes the $4,500 cap per support unit for the transition, resulting in taxpayers subsidizing a greater amount of the expanded benefits for state employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the passage of H 433 last session already provided state employees with very generous benefits. Government schools already consume the lion's share of tax revenue in Idaho, and the state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Removing the $4,500 Cap on Subsidies Provided to School Employees Who Transition to the State's Healthcare Plan.

This bill places all administrative rules on a staggered, eight-year review cycle for reauthorization as well as requires legislative approval of all new rules via concurrent resolution. Additionally, the bill requires agencies to accept testimony on proposed rules via video or telephone (currently only oral or written). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps combat regulatory overreach and provides greater oversight of the government bureaucrats who establish the rules but are unaccountable to voters.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Requiring All Administrative Rules to Undergo Review and Reauthorization Every 8 Years.

This bill requires all highway-user fee revenue and highway and bridge ad valorum taxes be used on projects such as construction and maintenance of bridges and highways "that benefit primarily motor vehicles." This prevents the use of these funds for other purposes, such as building sidewalks and bike lanes. Support is the Limited Government Position as the user fees and taxes specifically associated with highways and bridges should be limited to constructing and maintaining that infrastructure, not for other side projects such as sidewalks and bike lanes. This measure helps ensure roads and bridges are properly upkept while also helping combat wasteful and unnecessary expenditures.

Protecting Taxpayers from Wasteful and Unnecessary Infrastructure Spending by Restricting the Use of Highway and Bridge Revenue.

This bill clarifies that the residents of a city may utilize the citizen-led referendum or initiative processes to reduce the property tax base budget of their city, thus providing property tax relief. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a critical tool for residents to shrink the size and scope of government and protect themselves from excessive taxation.

Advancing Property Tax Relief by Ensuring the Citizen-led Referendum Process May be Utilized at the Local Level to Reduce the Property Tax Base Budget of a City.

This bill appropriates over $2.9 million in taxpayer funds to Idaho Public Television (IPTV), an entity which has 14 full-time employees. IPTV has an extensive programming schedule with multiple channels. For example, on its Politically Speaking program guests utilize critical race theory to examine communities and education, while its PBS kids diversity programs "help children explore their emotions about news topics such as the pandemic, social unrest, and same-sex relationships." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Idaho Public Television is an unnecessary entity which merely competes with the private sector, while also promoting a politicized social agenda. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Funding Critical Race Theory and LGBTQ Programing for Children through a $2.9 Million Appropriation to Idaho Public Television.

This bill makes it easier for counties to satisfy notice requirements to destroy noxious weeds, on private property, "including necessary destruction of crops," at the expense of the landowner. Currently, a property owner has five working days from the time of receipt of a notice to begin addressing weeds. This bill provides that when the property owner is "not known or readily available," service is considered satisfied eight days after the notice is postmarked or certified registered receipt at the address. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides government bureaucrats with overreaching powers to trespass onto private property and impose additional costs onto landowners without necessary protections.

Weakening Property Rights by Providing Government Officials Overreaching Powers to Trespass onto Private Property and Destroy Crops in Order to Control "Noxious Weeds".

This resolution amends the state Constitution to require signatures from at least 6% of the electorate in every legislative district for a citizen-led referendum. Current law only requires signatures to be collected from 6% of the electorate residing within 18 of any of the state's 35 legislative districts. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect the constitutional amendment process from abuse by special interests and other groups that seek to grow the size and scope of government. In recent years the initiative process has been utilized to expand Medicaid (government-provided healthcare).

Protecting the State's Referendum and Initiative Process from Abuse by Raising the Citizen-led Signature Threshold.

This bill amends state law to clarify that acceptable forms of identification for casting a ballot in an election only include government-issued IDs such as a driver's license, identification card, US passport, or concealed carry license. Under the law, high school and college-issued photo IDs (which do not require proof of identity) are no longer acceptable forms of identification. Support is the Limited Government Position as verifying an individual's identity when voting and maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Clarifying the State's Photo-ID Requirements for Casting a Ballot Do Not Include High School or College-Issued IDs.

This bill, commonly referred to as "Clean Slate" allows convicted criminals to have their offense expunged from their record and shielded from public disclosure after 5 years. The bill applies to criminals who committed a misdemeanor crime including burglary, theft, certain gun or gang-related crimes, or any number of other crimes (except "violent" crimes) which may have resulted in up to a year of incarceration. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as safeguarding communities and ensuring public safety is one of the most important roles of government. This bill prevents businesses and families from protecting themselves from dangerous convicted criminals and unknowingly sharing housing or providing employment in key financial roles - critical information considering the national 44% recidivism rate. Unfortunately, this bill is one of many so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by radical-left billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Weakening Public Safety through a Dangerous "Criminal Justice "Reform" Which Prevents Communities from Protecting Themselves Against Convicted Criminals through Record Expungement.

This bill ensures individuals do not have to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or provide a "vaccine passport" in order to receive state and local services, enter a government building, or be employed by the state. The bill also applies to other vaccines that are available under emergency use authorization and have not yet received full FDA approval. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect individual liberties by ensuring it is individuals - not government - making the medical decision on whether or not to receive a vaccination against COVID-19 or other diseases. Unfortunately, this bill includes a number of exemptions such as schools, day care facilities, healthcare facilities, and federal requirements.

Protecting Individual Liberties by Prohibiting Government-Imposed "Vaccine Passport" Mandates.

This bill clarifies that any policy statements or guidance documents issued by a state agency is not "the law" and has no legal force or effect. Support is the Limited Government Position as the power to establish law should be reserved to the legislature - not unaccountable bureaucrats within state agencies. This bill helps ensure that mere policy statements and guidance documents issued by bureaucrats which have not undergone public scrutiny or through the rule making process, are not legally binding on Idahoans.

Strengthening Government Integrity by Clarifying State Agency Policy Statements and Guidance Are Not State Law.

This bill prohibits the consideration of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) in decisions relating to state contracting or procurement. The consideration of ESG oftentimes leads to higher taxpayer costs. Support is the Limited Government Position as all public procurement actions should be based on producing the maximum return and value for taxpayers, not advancing political or social agendas.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Considerations in State Contracts.

This bill adds an additional provision into law to clarify that only U.S. Citizens may vote to elect or nominate a candidate to office. Support is the Limited Government Position as only U.S. Citizens - not foreign nationals - should be the ones deciding who to have govern them. Unfortunately, the bill only serves as a step in the right direction as the language fails to also apply the provision to other voting applications like bond levies and ballot measures.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Ensuring that Only U.S. Citizens May Vote.

This bill prohibits election officials from distributing absentee ballots or ballot applications unless they are specifically requested by voters. The bill is in response to actions taken in some states where absentee ballots were distributed in masses, including to addresses where the voter was no longer residing. Support is the Limited Government Position as the unsolicited mass distribution of ballots creates countless avenues for vote fraud. Measures such as this protection are critical to ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Prohibiting the Unsolicited Mass Mailing of Absentee Ballots.

This bill prevents state employees and officers from downloading or accessing TikTok on state devices or networks. Support is the Limited Government Position as the installation of such systems poses a significant and unnecessary threat to state and federal networks. Additionally, state employees should not be utilizing government equipment to access entertainment apps such as TikTok.

Strengthening National Security by Banning TikTok from Being Accessed on State-Issued Devices or Networks.

This bill limits the ability of the legislature to intervene in a court case challenging the constitutionality of a state law by giving the Senate President Pro-Tempore and the Speaker of the House of Representatives the sole discretion to decide whether their respective chambers will intervene to defend the law. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill weakens government integrity by providing just two individuals with the authority to make critical determinations surrounding the defense of state law. The bill is especially troubling given the poor track records of the individuals in House and Senate leadership roles over the past decade when it has come to upholding limited government principles.

Restricting the Ability of the Legislature to Defend Laws in Court Cases by Providing the House and Senate Leaders the Sole Discretion to Intervene.

This bill enters the state into an Interstate Counseling Compact, allowing licensed counselors to practice in other member states. While interstate compacts can make it easier for licensed individuals to practice in multiple states, this specific bill creates a new joint public agency and imposes fingerprint-based background checks on professional counselors. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as an unnecessary barrier to licensure and weakens civil liberties. Most government licensing entities are overly restrictive and are largely advocated by special interest seeking to restrict competition in the marketplace.

Increasing Employment Barriers and Weakening Civil Liberties by Forcing Counselors to Undergo Fingerprint-Based Background Checks to Obtain Licensure.

Under current law, the state tracks the immunization of children through an immunization registry. This bill would change the registry from an opt-out system to an opt-in system where parents must affirmatively agree to have their child's records tracked. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves to protect the privacy of parents and children, ensuring it is parents - not the government - making the decision on whether their child's medical records are tracked.

Barbara Ehardt

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