IdahoGOP

Steve Miller

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) "Regulations that forbid Idahoans from buying insurance across state lines should be eliminated". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIX (Religious Liberty) Paragraph 1 "we oppose any efforts, state or federal, legislative, executive, or judicial, to limit the “free exercise of religion” by its citizens at home, their place of employment, or venues otherwise publicly available". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article IX (Property Rights) Paragraph 1 "The Republican Party believes in the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution: "No person shall be ... deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article VII (Energy) Section 6 "We oppose any mandated deregulation that would negatively impact rate payers". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 3 "We support all educational environments desired by parents including public charter schools, public virtual charter schools". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 4 - C "We believe health and welfare programs should be administered with a minimum of bureaucracy and the goal of helping all recipients return to a selfsustaining and productive life". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 10 "The right to determine their child’s health, safety, and medical treatment including masks and vaccinations, and the right to visit their child’s classroom with limited restrictions. These rights should be enumerated in Idaho Code".

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 1 B - Religious Freedom in Public Education "We believe that school administrators and officials should not infringe on Idaho school students’ and staff’s 1st Amendment rights to pray and engage in religious speech, individually or in groups, on school property without government interference". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We believe the unnecessary growth of government has a negative impact on both the conduct of business and our individual lives". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Section 2 Support for Small Business "We support a business environment that promotes development and expansion of businesses in Idaho and eliminates all onerous repressive government regulation". 

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

This bill provides the Director of the Department of Insurance new power to impose large penalties on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) for any violation of regulations the state enacted in 2020. These regulations control prices and contract provisions negotiated between PBMs and local pharmacies. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 1 Private Enterprise Healthcare Delivery "We support a private enterprise health care delivery system that provides cost-effective, quality health care with minimal government regulation". 

Providing Government Bureaucrats New Powers to Enforce Overreaching Regulations Recently Imposed on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMS).

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 5 - State Legislature "We support the current move to zero-based budgeting or other appropriate budgeting techniques. We believe growth can be attained in a sound, responsible manner by holding taxes down, granting business incentives, and refusing to grant excessive demands for increased spending". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - B - "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local.  We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - C "We believe Idaho’s tax structure should be predictable, fair, and balanced; and that the combination of our income, sales, and property taxes will continue to provide a stable, dependable source of income for governmental needs". 

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 appropriation covers much more than just agriculture, but also on other topics related to health and community development and climate change. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - A "The Idaho Republican Party recognizes that all government is financed by taxing its citizens. We believe the size and cost of government, as well as the national debt, must be reduced". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - C "We believe Idaho’s tax structure should be predictable, fair, and balanced; and that the combination of our income, sales, and property taxes will continue to provide a stable, dependable source of income for governmental needs".

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

This bill appropriates over $29 million to the State Liquor Division, which represents an increase of over $1.8 million from the prior year. The appropriation provides funding for 261 full time employees as well as the relocation and remodeling of two government-run liquor stores. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We believe the unnecessary growth of government has a negative impact on both the conduct of business and our individual lives. We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable". 

Growing Unnecessary Government Bureaucracy and Spending through a $29 Million Appropriation for the State Liquor Division Including Funding to Renovate Government-Run Liquor Stores.

This bill appropriates over $4.5 billion to fund the state's Medicaid system which was expanded under Obamacare (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act). 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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 2 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act "We support the repeal of the Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act in its entirety". 

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 any investigation under the Child Protective Act that is based on the immunization status of a child. Courts are also prohibited from terminating parental rights based on the immunization status of a child. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 10 "The right to determine their child’s health, safety, and medical treatment including masks and vaccinations, and the right to visit their child’s classroom with limited restrictions. These rights should be enumerated in Idaho Code". 

Strengthening Parental Rights by Prohibiting Vaccination Status from Being Considered in Child Protection Cases.

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Section 2 Support for Small Business "We support a business environment that promotes development and expansion of businesses in Idaho and eliminates all onerous repressive government regulation". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 3 "We believe in improving the quality of education for every child by maximizing parental choice. This will be accomplished through money following students to their parent’s school of choice". 

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. This bill is expected to provide significant additional revenue to companies that provide these services such as Comcast. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive". 

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

This bill appropriates $204 million to the Department of Commerce, driven largely by an appropriation of $100 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for broadband infrastructure. The bill also provides funding to aid "in the creation of jobs, generating economic growth, creating economic opportunities, and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Idaho Citizens." Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Section 1: Commerce and Industry "We endorse economic development and expansion in Idaho and pledge to make every effort to provide a business climate that will attract such growth". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - A "The Idaho Republican Party recognizes that all government is financed by taxing its citizens.  We believe the size and cost of government, as well as the national debt, must be reduced".

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - C "We believe Idaho’s tax structure should be predictable, fair, and balanced; and that the combination of our income, sales, and property taxes will continue to provide a stable, dependable source of income for governmental needs".

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XVI (Law and Order with Justice) "prosecutors should continue to recognize the substantial rights and interests of crime victims in the judicial process". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated". 

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - C "We believe Idaho’s tax structure should be predictable, fair, and balanced; and that the combination of our income, sales, and property taxes will continue to provide a stable, dependable source of income for governmental needs".

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article IV (Agriculture) Section 4 "We endorse the preservation and strengthening of the family farm unit as the foundation of agriculture and one of the basic strengths of this nation". 

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 3: Right to Life "We oppose the expenditure of any Idaho taxpayer funds by any unit of government, including federal, state, county, and municipal government, to any provider of abortion and strongly support legislation to enact the same". 

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

This bill prohibits localities from requiring the installation of an electric vehicle circuit as part of any new home construction. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Section 2 Support for Small Business "We support a business environment that promotes development and expansion of businesses in Idaho and eliminates all onerous repressive government regulation".

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive".

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 4 Sound Currency "We recognize the failure of the Federal Reserve System to maintain a sound U.S. dollar and the danger of mercantile banks controlling the issuance of our currency.  We believe the Federal Reserve Bank should be abolished and the issuing power restored to the people with the stipulation that the U.S. dollar be backed by gold and silver."

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIX (Religious Liberty) "The Idaho Republican Party believes religious freedom is a fundamental human right and essential for any society or community to flourish, we oppose any efforts, state or federal, legislative, executive, or judicial, to limit the “free exercise of religion” by its citizens at home, their place of employment, or venues otherwise publicly available.  

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 2 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act "We support the repeal of the Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act in its entirety".

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, 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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 3 General Principles for Healthcare - D "We support as supreme the authority of parents in all medical decisions for their children, including providers and treatments."

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 4: Children "We believe biological gender to be an essential characteris c of a child’s identity and purpose. We call upon parents, responsible citizens, and officers of government to promote measures that respect and protect the biological gender of children. We strongly oppose any person, entity, or policy that attempts to confuse minors regarding their biological gender".

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

This bill appropriates over $38 million and 341.33 full-time positions to the University of Idaho Agricultural Research and Extension Services for 2025, a program "conducting research on a range of topics related to food systems, health and community development, water resources, plant science, climate change and much more." The bill creates two new full-time faculty positions that specialize in either irrigation or forestry research and a janitorial position. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

Funding Politicized Research on Climate Change, Community Development and Other Wasteful Initiatives by Appropriating $38.4 Million to the University of Idaho Agricultural Research Program.

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 1 Private Enterprise Health Care Delivery System "We support a private enterprise health care delivery system that provides cost-effective, quality health care with minimal government regulation."

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XVII (National Defense) Section 4 Secure the Border "We believe that securing the national border must be a priority for our country. We support the construction of a border wall along the entire southern border of the United States."

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 8 "We are strongly opposed to any social justice indoctrination that may occur at any level of Idaho’s education system and support policy and financial measures to prohibit universities, colleges or public schools from incorporating social justice indoctrination theories (i.e. critical race theory, transformative social emotional learning, diversity, equity and inclusion, replacement theory, queer theory, etc.) into their policies, curriculum and/or course materials."

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XVI (Law and Order with Justice) Section 1 Gun Rights "We commend efforts of organizations to preserve and foster the right of individuals to keep and bear arms, including Right-to-Carry laws."

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

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive".

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 position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

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

This bill prohibits abortion providers from supplying any materials or instruction relating to sex education curricula in public schools. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 3: Right to Live - A "We affirm that abortion is murder from the moment of fertilization. All children should be protected regardless of the circumstances of conception, including persons conceived in rape and incest".

Protecting Students from Abortion Indoctrination by Preventing Abortion Providers from Supplying Sensitive Instructional Materials in Schools.

This bill requires public schools and libraries to establish a process whereby books with obscene materials are moved to an adult only section. Specifically, this bill requires libraries to have a form available that anyone may use to request that a material be moved to an adults-only section if they think it includes sexual content that is "harmful to minors." Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 8 "We are strongly opposed to any social justice indoctrination that may occur at any level of Idaho’s education system and support policy and financial measures to prohibit universities, colleges or public schools from incorporating social justice indoctrination theories (i.e. critical race theory, transformative social emotional learning, diversity, equity and inclusion, replacement theory, queer theory, etc.) into their policies, curriculum and/or course materials."

Protecting Children from Obscene and Pornographic Material by Requiring Libraries to Move Material "Harmful to Minors" to an Adult-Only Section.

This bill stipulates that any state education entity that discusses or provides contraception or discusses sexually transmitted diseases/infections or provides testing "shall provide information explaining current adoption practices and where to find resources and support in the state". Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 3: Right to Live - A "We affirm that abortion is murder from the moment of fertilization. All children should be protected regardless of the circumstances of conception, including persons conceived in rape and incest".

Protecting Life by Requiring Schools to Include Information on Adoption Resources When Certain Sex Education Topics are Discussed.

This bill establishes mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking Fentanyl. Under the bill, an individual trafficking between 4 and 14 grams of fentanyl would be subject to a 3 year mandatory minimum, 14 to 28 grams a five year minimum, and 28 grams or more a 10 year minimum. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XVI (Law and Order with Justice) Section 3 Drug Use "We recognize the dreadful consequences of drug and substance abuse in our society, and we call upon our national, state and local leaders to refocus efforts to discourage drug use and rehabilitate drug users. We encourage all Idaho citizens, and their religious, civic, and community organizations, to be actively engaged in this effort."

Strengthening Public Safety and Combatting the Drug Epidemic by Imposing Mandatory Minimums on Fentanyl Trafficking.

This bill bans "classroom instruction by public school personnel on sexual orientation or gender identity from kindergarten through grade 12 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate." Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 4: Children "We strongly oppose any person, entity, or policy that attempts to confuse minors regarding their biological gender."

Strengthening the Integrity of the Public Education System by Prohibiting Discussion of Sensitive Issues Surrounding Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

This bill provides the Attorney General concurrent authority to investigate and prosecute violations of the state's election laws statewide. Maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article II (Citizen Involvement in Government) Section 5 "The 19th Amendement of the United States Constitution states that the right of citizens to vote shall not be denied. We believe it is important not to legitimize or support any practice that would diminish and/or disenfranchise the voting citizens of Idaho."

Strengthening Election Integrity by Authorizing the Attorney General to Investigate and Prosecute Election-Related Crimes.

This bill reduces the individual and corporate income tax rate from 5.695% to 5.3%. Additionally, the bill exempts capital gains and losses from bullion from state income taxes. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - A "The Idaho Republican Party recognizes that all government is financed by taxing its citizens. We believe the size and cost of government, as well as the national debt, must be reduced".

Expanding Economic Growth by Lowering the Income Tax Rate and Exempting Bullion Capital Gains from Income Taxes.

This bill restricts the flags that may be displayed on public school property. Under the bill, only certain flags may be displayed, such as the U.S., state, military, and college and university flags. The bill prohibits the display of "flags or banners that represent political, religious, or ideological views, including but not limited to political parties, race, gender, sexual orientation, or political ideologies" at public schools. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 8 "We are strongly opposed to any social justice indoctrination that may occur at any level of Idaho’s education system and support policy and financial measures to prohibit universities, colleges or public schools from incorporating social justice indoctrination theories (i.e. critical race theory, transformative social emotional learning, diversity, equity and inclusion, replacement theory, queer theory, etc.) into their policies, curriculum and/or course materials."

Preventing Indoctrination in Public Schools by Only Allowing the Display of School and Government Flags on Public Property.

This bill enacts the "Idaho Personnel Reduction Act," which requires state agencies to annually identify employee positions that have been vacant for at least 180 days. If the position has been vacant for less than 1 year, the agency may request to keep the position. Otherwise, the position is eliminated and the agency's budget is reduced accordingly. This measure helps reduce spending by eliminating unnecessary positions. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 5 - State Legislature - B - "We support the current move to zero-based budgeting or other appropriate budgeting techniques.  We believe growth can be attained in a sound, responsible manner by holding taxes down, granting business incentives, and refusing to grant excessive demands for increased spending." 

Reducing Spending by Annually Eliminating Unfilled Government Employment Positions.

This bill authorizes an additional 5 full-time equivalent positions and appropriates over $8 million in net additional funding for the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. While the bill does contain a reduction in spending of over $22 million, the bill adds over $30 million in new spending. The private sector is much better equipped to manage property and provide recreational services. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated."

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Ballooning Spending for Unnecessary Initiatives Within the Parks and Recreation Department.

This bill appropriates over $18 million in additional funding to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, representing a growth rate of 27 percent over the last 3 years. The budget contains funding for a number of unnecessary initiatives including new meeting spaces and a costly website overhaul. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive".

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Significantly Hiking Appropriations at the Department of Fish and Game for Unnecessary Initiatives.

This bill appropriates over $75 million in net additional funding to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. This represents a spending growth rate of 150% over the past 3 years and there are very few details provided on how these funds will be spent. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive".

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through an Additional Appropriation of $75 Million to the Department of Environmental Quality that Lacks Proper Justification.

This bill enacts the "Immigration Cooperation and Enforcement Act," which, based on a similar bill enacted in Texas, makes it a state crime for illegal immigrants to enter Idaho from a foreign country outside of an official port of entry. Additionally, the bill requires a mandatory sentence of at least 5 years in prison for any "dangerous crime" committed by someone who was previously deported or is subject to an order of removal. Finally, jails are required to notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security when foreign nationals are arrested, and localities may not prohibit law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XVII (National Defense) Section 4 Secure the Border "We believe that securing the national border must be a priority for our country. We support the construction of a border wall along the entire southern border of the United States."

This bill prevents state government employees and localities from imposing mask mandates unless authorized through a vote of the state legislature. The bill applies to face masks for purposes of preventing or slowing the spread of a contagious or infectious disease.
Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 8: We believe parental rights are paramount and that parents have the God given right to direct their child’s education. This includes the right to determine their child’s health, safety, and medical treatment including masks and vaccinations, and the right to visit their child’s classroom with limited restrictions. These rights should be enumerated in Idaho Code. 

Protecting Individual Liberties by Prohibiting Government-Imposed Mask Mandates.

This bill eliminates all Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) related programs, initiatives, offices, and employees across Idaho's state education system. The bill eliminates 51 FTEs who were tasked with advancing DEI and is estimated to save taxpayers $3.8 million. 
Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

Eliminating Politicized DEI Frameworks Across Taxpayer Funded Universities. 

This bill prohibits out-of-state entities from owning any part of Idaho's electrical transmission facilities. Ultimately, these regulations will result in less competition, thus driving up rate-payer costs.
Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being".

Restricting Competition in the Utility Sector through New Protectionist Regulations

This bill imposes a series of new government regulations on small brewers and within the beer industry that are largely intended to restrict competition and enrich wholesalers and distributors.
Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being".

Restricting Competition by Imposing Protectionist Mandates in the Beer Industry

This bill enacts the "Protecting Campus Free Speech in Higher Education Act," which provides that public colleges and universities may not "abridge the protected expressive activity of any member of the campus community to speak on campus." Additionally, the bill requires public colleges and universities to "maintain a policy prohibiting student-on-student harassment." Finally, these institutions are prohibited from restricting First Amendment-protected speech to "free speech zones," and they may not charge "security fees" based on the content of a student or organization's speech, or that of an invited guest. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 1 B - Religious Freedom in Public Schools "We believe that school administrators and officials should not infringe on Idaho school students’ and staff’s 1st Amendment rights to pray and engage in religious speech, individually or in groups, on school property without government interference. We believe the legislature should end censorship of discussion of religion in our founding documents and encourage discussing those documents, including the Bible as their basis. Students and district personnel have the right to display religious items on school property."

Protecting Free Speech on Public College Campuses by Limiting Restrictions on Free Speech.

This bill slightly reduces regulations on daycare providers by increasing the number of children a staff member may supervise. While the bill does add specificity to the definition of "supervision," this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing excessive regulations within the childcare industry. Lawmakers should build on this deregulatory approach to make childcare more affordable. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Section 2 Support for Small Business "We support a business environment that promotes development and expansion of businesses in Idaho and eliminates all onerous repressive government regulation".

Reducing Childcare Costs and Increasing Availability by Increasing the Number of Children Staff May Supervise.

This bill requires public colleges and universities, jails, and domestic violence shelters with a multi-person restroom, changing facility, or sleeping areas to designate separate facilities based on biological sex at birth. Public colleges and universities are required to provide a reasonable accommodation upon written request, but this does not include allowing access to a multi-person restroom, changing facility, or sleeping area designated for the opposite sex while in use. This measure helps strengthen safety and privacy in restrooms and locker rooms at public colleges and universities, jails, and domestic violence shelters across the state. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIV (American Family) Section 4: Children "We believe biological gender to be an essential characteristic of a child’s identity and purpose. We call upon parents, responsible citizens, and officers of government to promote measures that respect and protect the biological gender of children. We strongly oppose any person, entity, or policy that attempts to confuse minors regarding their biological gender".

Strengthening Safety and Privacy in the Restrooms of Public Colleges and Universities and Other Locations by Requiring Usage to be Based on Biological Sex (Male or Female) at Birth.

This bill allows individual life insurance policy holders with a policy of more than $50,000 to "request that a lapse or termination notice be sent by United States postal service certified mail, return receipt requested." Additionally, the bill mandates that the "notice shall be sent at the insurer's expense at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of the lapse or termination." Existing law already requires a notice be sent via first-class mail "at least fourteen (14) days prior to the effective date of the lapse or termination." Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being".

Imposing an Excessive New Mandate on Life Insurance Policy Notices.

This bill modifies the state's existing data center sales tax exemption, which provides a tax credit for "the purchase or use of eligible server equipment and new data center facilities." The exemption only applies to data centers with at least a $250 million investment and that create at least 30 new jobs. Under the bill, new data centers are limited to receiving the exemption for 7 years. Previously, there was no maximum time period. Businesses that have already received the exemption are not impacted. While this tax cronyism should be repealed entirely, this bill is a step in the right direction. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Taxation - C "We believe Idaho’s tax structure should be predictable, fair, and balanced; and that the combination of our income, sales, and property taxes will continue to provide a stable, dependable source of income for governmental needs".

Slightly Reducing Cronyism Through a 7-Year Limit on New Data Center Tax Exemptions.

This bill strengthens property rights by allowing homeowners to have an unauthorized individual removed by law enforcement after submitting a complaint to the sheriff, if certain conditions are met. Additionally, the bill makes it a misdemeanor to present false real estate documents claiming to be a lease agreement or deed in order to stay on a property, and a felony to list a property for sale or lease without ownership or authority to do so. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article IX (Property Rights) Paragraph 1 "The Republican Party believes in the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution: "No person shall be ... deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. We oppose any federal, state or local regulation on that would diminish a property owner's right to develop his property."

Strengthening Property Rights by Creating New Penalties for Falsifying Real Estate Documents and Establishing a Legal Process for Property Owners to Remove Squatters.

This bill expands the materials school districts and public charter schools are required to post online to include the titles of required textbooks and course syllabi. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 10 "We believe that in order for public education to be successful, schools and families should work together with mutual respect and cooperation. We believe parental rights are paramount and that parents have the God given right to direct their child’s education. This includes the right to decide what their children are learning, the right to inspect any educational materials used in the education of their child. The right to determine their child’s health, safety, and medical treatment including masks and vaccinations, and the right to visit their child’s classroom with limited restrictions. These rights should be enumerated in Idaho Code."

Strengthening School Transparency and Parental Oversight by Requiring the Textbooks and Curriculum Utilized in Classrooms to Be Posted Online.

This bill eliminates the requirement that public comment at school board trustee meetings be "limited to items listed on the meeting agenda." As a result, parents and others may address the school board on other topics. Support is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article III (Education) Section 10 "We believe that in order for public education to be successful, schools and families should work together with mutual respect and cooperation. We believe parental rights are paramount and that parents have the God given right to direct their child’s education. This includes the right to decide what their children are learning, the right to inspect any educational materials used in the education of their child. The right to determine their child’s health, safety, and medical treatment including masks and vaccinations, and the right to visit their child’s classroom with limited restrictions. These rights should be enumerated in Idaho Code."

Strengthening Parental Rights and School Board Accountability by Reducing Restrictions on Public Comment at School Board Meetings.

This bill enacts the "Transparency in Financial Services Act," which 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." The bill also applies to credit card companies and payment processors with over $100 billion in transactions processed in the past year. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being".

Infringing the Freedom of Private Business to Set their Own Policies through a Blanket Ban on "Social Credit Scores".

This bill increases the assessment on dry and garden beans from 12 cents to 16-24 cents per hundred pounds, with the exact amount determined by the Idaho Bean Commission. Under this checkoff program, farmers are forced to pay into a fund that is used for industry research and marketing. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XII (Economy) Paragraph 1 "A competitive market, free of undue governmental competition, restriction, coercion, or interference, is critical to Idaho’s economic well-being".

Worsening Cronyism by Further Hiking Taxes Under the Bean Commodity Checkoff Program.

This bill requires healthcare providers to provide patients a copy of their medical records, if requested, at no cost. Certain independently-owned healthcare providers with less than 50 employees are exempt from this requirement. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article XIII (Health and Welfare) Section 1 Private Enterprise Healthcare Delivery "We support a private enterprise health care delivery system that provides cost-effective, quality health care with minimal government regulation".

Growing Government Interference in the Healthcare Industry by Mandating Copies of Medical Records be Provided to Patients at No Cost.

This bill authorizes an additional 3 full-time equivalent positions and appropriates an additional $744,100 for the Idaho State Historical Society. Providing funding for a historical society is not a core nor necessary function of the government, rather a role of the private sector through foundations and philanthropy. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 1 Fiscal Responsibility - D "We endorse the review of all government programs and encourage their assumption by private enterprise or local government where appropriate and workable. Programs which are not cost effective or have outlived their usefulness should be terminated".

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Ballooning Spending for Unnecessary Initiatives Within the State Historical Society.

This bill appropriates over $236 million in net additional funding to the Idaho Transportation Department. The base spending of the department has grown by 50 percent over the last three years and this bill contains a number of runaway spending intiatives surrounding public transit and renovations to the HQ. Oppose is the position of the Idaho GOP Platform under Article I (Responsibility in Government) Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility - B "We believe that tax reductions can be achieved by cutting spending on every level: federal, state, and local. We believe that lower taxes will result in increased revenue to the government as the private sector will thrive."

Steve Miller

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