2024

Idaho Senate Leadership Statement on Border Security

As members of the Idaho Senate leadership, we stand firm in our support for Operation Esto Perpetua and the decision to deploy Idaho State Police troopers to assist at the southern border and help stem the tide of the border crisis. The crisis at our nation's southern border isn't a distant problem; its ripples are felt far and wide, reaching into the heart of Idaho. The unchecked flow of illegal narcotics, human trafficking, and the influx of weapons into our communities poses a significant threat to our safety and sovereignty. With the Biden administration's inadequate response to this growing chaos, it's incumbent upon states to step up and protect their citizens.

The value of the frontline experience our troopers gain in working alongside their counterparts in Texas is immeasurable. They learn directly from the epicenter of illegal activity, honing skills that are indispensable in the fight against the sophisticated operations of drug cartels. These cartels don't respect state lines; the drugs they smuggle into Texas today can be on the streets of Idaho tomorrow. Our troopers' enhanced training directly translates into more effectively stopping drug and human trafficking.

The fight to secure the border transcends political lines. It's about safeguarding our communities, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring that Idahoans can live safely. As the federal government falters, Idahoans can rest assured that their representatives and law enforcement officers stand vigilant against threats to our security and well-being.

We praise the valor of our ISP troopers. Their contributions are making Idaho, and America, a safer place for all. As more leaders across the country are recognizing the severity of the border crisis, we are proud to be at the forefront of this crucial national effort. The security of Idaho, and the nation, demands nothing less.

2023

Idahoans Seeing the Impact of Unprecedented Property Tax Relief: Legislation Aids Seniors, Boosts Homeownership and Supports Schools

As Idahoans receive their property tax bills from county assessors this season amidst a national backdrop of escalating living expenses and economic uncertainties, there's at least one thing that stands out: a significant decrease in property taxes. This welcome relief, arriving just in time for the holiday season, marks a stark contrast to the rising costs seen nationally. This reduction is a direct result of the Idaho Senate Majority Caucus's landmark achievement in property tax legislation, a beacon of fiscal responsibility and support for homeowners during these challenging economic times. This reduction in property taxes offers a respite and a reason for optimism, highlighting a successful effort by the Republican-led Senate to ease the financial burdens of its citizens.

The decrease in property tax bills averages more than 20% lower than in 2022. This substantial relief stems from a novel approach, redirecting 4.5% of Idaho sales tax collections, over $120 million annually, to alleviate property tax burdens. Notably, half of this allocation directly benefits homeowner property tax relief, with the remaining funds supporting school districts.

Additionally, the legislation introduced a "surplus eliminator," committing up to $150 million annually from state surpluses for further property tax reductions. This innovative approach highlights the Idaho Senate Majority Caucus’ dedication to fiscal responsibility and direct benefits to Idaho citizens.

Homeowners are witnessing firsthand the impact of these changes on their recent property tax bills in the form of the "Homeowner Tax Relief Credit" and the "Additional Tax Relief Credit" line items, which together account for approximately 20% savings on property tax bills. The "School Savings" credit reflects the state's direct contribution to school districts and further alleviates the property tax burden.

This legislative achievement is the culmination of extensive collaboration and consultation with citizens, legislators, local government officials, and stakeholders. Spearheaded by Senator C. Scott Grow, and refined through negotiations with House leadership, this effort garnered overwhelming support, with more than two-thirds of both houses voting in favor.

The Idaho Senate Majority Caucus is committed to ensuring that Idaho remains a place where families can thrive. This historic property tax relief not only aids in making homeownership more accessible for young families but also ensures that older couples can continue living in their homes with a reduced financial burden. It marks a significant step towards a more affordable Idaho and sets the foundation for continued relief in the years to come.

For more information about how these changes affect you, please refer to the detailed breakdown of your property tax bill or contact your local county assessor.

Idaho Senate Overrides Governor's Veto to Bring Property Tax Relief                     

The Idaho Senate Majority Caucus is proud to announce that we have successfully overridden Governor Little's veto and passed House bill 292 (H 292) to provide much-needed property tax relief to the people of Idaho. We appreciate the Governor’s concerns, including the impact of removing one of the possible election dates school districts can run bond and levy issues, but believe schools will benefit from additional funds in H 292. Through diligent work on House bill 376, which passed both the House and Senate, we have addressed the distribution of tax funds for transportation and local highway projects.

We understand the importance of ensuring our citizens can keep their hard-earned money and make ends meet. Property taxes have been rising at an alarming rate, putting undue financial strain on Idahoans. This vote was not about taking sides but about doing what we believe is in the best interest of Idaho.

While there may be differing opinions on how to address this issue, our goal is aligned - to help Idahoans. Today's vote will make a significant difference in the lives of those facing financial hardships due to rising property taxes. We are proud to have come together to pass this bill and provide much-needed relief to our citizens.

We appreciate our colleagues in the House of Representatives who are still working to help us address additional concerns through appropriation bills this session. We remain committed to working towards solutions that benefit all Idahoans and will continue to prioritize the needs of our citizens and work towards a brighter future for our state.

2022

Idaho Senate Republicans Pass Historic Tax Relief Bill

Idaho Senate Republicans voted to pass H436 -- the largest income tax cut in Idaho history that also includes a one-time rebate to Idaho taxpayers.  The move to reduce and return taxes follows record tax revenue collection by the State of Idaho from a growing Idaho economy.

H436 reduces income taxes for all Idahoans.  Opponents of H436 debated against income tax reduction and instead chose to focus on repealing sales tax on some groceries.  Idaho Senate Republicans support grocery sales tax relief and current income tax credits offset grocery sales tax for all Idahoans.  Senate Republicans will be advancing legislation the session to provide more grocery tax credit relief.  Read More.

Idaho Senate Republicans Announce Efforts to Protect Children from Indecent Media and Materials

Idaho Senate Majority Leadership announced on Friday that Senate Pro Tempore Chuck Winder and House Speaker Scott Bedke, have formed a working group to study library content in recognition of allegations around the availability of sexually explicit materials in Idaho libraries. The working group will be comprised of four members from the Senate and four members of the House of Representatives. Read More.

Idaho Senate Republicans Pass Property Tax Relief to Protect Elderly Idahoans

On Friday the Senate voted to pass Senate Bill 1241 that works to protect elderly Idaho residents with fixed or limited incomes from losing their homes due to rising property values. The bill, sponsored and carried by Senator Regina Bayer (R-Meridian), increases the maximum home value for a homeowner to qualify for the state’s circuit breaker program from 125% to 200%. The increase will allow more low-income homeowners to qualify for the property tax reduction, intended to protect older, disabled or widowed Idaho residents with fixed or limited incomes from losing their homes due to rapidly increasing property values. Read More.

Senator Thayn Pushes Legislation to Help Change the Face of Public Education

The Advanced Opportunities program provides students with up to $4,125 that students, starting in 7th grade, can use to further their education in several ways. They can take overload courses or summer classes to accelerate their path through the K-12 system. They can also use it to pay for Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and career technical examinations, to pay for dual credit, or to fund CTE workforce development courses and apprenticeships. Read More

2021

Idaho Senate Republican statement on Governor’s Veto

The Governor has chosen to take a narrow and negative interpretation of the recently passed legislation in order to justify his veto of S1136aa and expected veto of H135aa. The purpose of the legislation is, and remains, to rebalance power so the will of Idaho's citizens is stewarded by their elected representatives and our citizens have recourse and remedy in times of emergency when their rights or freedoms are impacted. As Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon shared previously, "this ensures Idahoans maintain their sovereignty and local control…and prevents the formation of a dangerous precedent where a Governor could unilaterally restrict individuals' liberties by suspending Idaho code with no input from citizens or their legislature. Read more.

Idaho Senate Republicans oppose federal dam removal proposal

Idaho Senate Republicans voted to voice their objections to the recently floated federal plan to remove the Lower Granite, Little Goose, Lower Monumental, and Ice Harbor dams on the lower Snake River. The proposal, intended to assist in salmon restoration, would have severe economic and trade repercussions. Senate Joint Memorial 103, the measure opposing removal of the dams, passed the Senate 28-6-1 and if adopted by the House, would be the official position of the Idaho Legislature to be submitted to the U.S. Senate president, U.S. House speaker and congressional delegates for Idaho, Montana, Washington and Oregon. Read more.

Idaho Senate Republicans agree to House recess request

Due to an increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Idaho House of Representatives, House leadership immediately shut down committee meetings on March 19, 2021. It urged the Senate to concur with their request to recess until Tuesday, April 6. There are currently no senators with confirmed cases of COVID-19.

"We are saddened to hear about the increase in cases in the House. The Senate has always understood the seriousness of COVID-19, but we respect the oath and obligation we have to do the important work of the state, and while mindful of the risks to us personally, we remain focused on the work ahead," said Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon. "We are committed to finishing the people's business but respectfully support our House colleague's request. We will also make sure this legislative pause is done in a way to prevent unnecessary expenditure of taxpayer dollars."

Significant issues such as transportation funding and tax relief still need to be addressed and resolved. The Senate had already been planning for a potential recess to deal with the uncertainty of how to use the roughly $2 billion the state will receive from the American Rescue Plan Act. Read more.

Idaho Senate Republicans pass bill to help Idaho's farmers and ranchers

The Idaho State Senate passed House Bill 167 (H167) which allows agriculture rules formulated by scientific probabilities to be balanced against economic reality. The Idaho Department of Agriculture Director will be able to consider localized data and economic information to utilize the best available science in rulemaking. The result will be regulatory burdens becoming financially feasible for Idaho farmers and ranchers. H167 also increases transparency and opportunity for public involvement.

Majority Leader Kelly Anthon from Burley submitted that, "Republicans have once again taken a strong position for the lightest hand of government." Adding that the bill, “protects Idaho's dairy, ranch, and farming operations from excessive regulations that harm small family farms and can ultimately put them out of business." Anthon pointed out that H167, "still allows the State to advance rules necessary to prevent pollution and keeps Idaho drinking water safe." Read more.

Idaho Senate Republicans pass bill to clarify governor’s authority and ensure
Idahoan’s freedoms

The Idaho Senate passed Senate Bill 1136 as amended, which clarifies and limits a Governor’s powers during times of extreme emergency. The measure amends Title 46, Chapter 6 of Idaho Code, and ensures Idahoan’s rights are protected during times of extreme peril.

“The Senate majority caucus has worked together and with our constituents to clarify the powers of the Governor during a state of emergency,” said Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon. “The legislation would ensure that in times of extreme peril, Idahoans maintain their sovereignty and local control while also protecting the safety of all citizens. It would prevent the formation of a dangerous precedent where a Governor could unilaterally restrict individuals’ liberties by suspending Idaho code with no input from citizens or the legislature.” Read more.

Idaho Senate Republicans advance bill to provide $175 million in immediate rental assistance

February 25, 2021

Idaho Senate Republicans advanced House Bill 176 which provides $175 million in immediate rental assistance funding for Idaho families who are facing eviction or other housing difficulties due to job loss or other COVID-related expenses. The Senate voted unanimously to approve the bill which now goes to the governor for a signature.

Idaho has had an eviction moratorium in place since March 2020, and this funding provides assistance for landlords and property owners who have not been able to collect rental payments and are facing foreclosure. Due to the pandemic, rising property costs, a shortage of affordable housing many households are cost burdened, spending 30 percent to more than half of their income on housing. Read more.

Senate approves legislation to prohibit the legalization of psychoactive drugs in Idaho

The Senate voted on and approved Senate Joint Resolution 101 (SJR101), sponsored by Sen. C. Scott Grow, R-Eagle. The amendment would effectively ban future legalization and recreational use of methamphetamines, heroin, cocaine, non-medical marijuana, and non-prescription opioids, as has been seen in neighboring states like Oregon.

“This legislation starts a conversation about Idaho values and the environment we want to create for our youth,” said Senator Scott Grow. “The idea that recreational marijuana legalization is a gateway to further legalization is by no means unfounded. In Oregon, you now face a harsher penalty for providing single-use plastic bags in your restaurant or grocery store than you would for using heroin.” Read more.

Senate introduces legislation to eliminate criminal penalties tied to social distancing mandates

The Senate State Affairs Committee held a print hearing on a draft resolution by Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon, R-Delco, and Senator Steve Vick, R-Dalton Gardens, that would eliminate criminal penalties tied to social distancing mandates. The legislation also seeks to help Idaho businesses struggling during the pandemic by removing business restrictions and would allow parents to attend their children’s extracurricular activities. The resolution encourages personal responsibility for health and safety practices and allows local communities to respond to public safety needs.

“It’s important to note, the resolution does not limit local control,” Senator Anthon said. “Local governments still retain their authority - and right - to pass and enforce local health orders that make sense for their communities, but the statewide, one-size, restrictions need to end.” Read more.