Dear Readers,
It’s that time of year again! The Idaho Primary Election is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21st, 2024. This election is to choose party candidates for federal, state, and county positions. The candidates with the most votes in the primary will proceed to the general election. There are multiple races in the upcoming election, including U.S Representative, State Legislator, County Commissioner, County Sheriff, and County Prosecuting Attorney. There are numerous ways to ensure your voice is heard: request an absentee ballot, early vote or hit the polls on election day to cast your vote. Early voting is now open in most areas until May 17th. Early voters can visit their local county elections office for dates, times, and areas to submit their vote before the big day. On Election Day, May 21st, the polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. We highly recommend checking out voteidaho.gov. You’ll see endless resources on what to expect when voting in-person, how to early/absentee vote, and see who’s running. Every Tuesday, tune in for the ‘Fun Fact Tuesday’ video clip to learn more about Idaho’s elections. The Idaho Secretary of State, Phil McGrane, says it perfectly, “..every voice matters, every vote counts. Let’s shape the future of Idaho together.” Happy voting, folks! Tori Thomas Community and Government Affairs Manager, Boise Metro Chamber
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Dear Readers,
The legislature adjourned on April 10th, 2024, and we extend our appreciation to both the House and the Senate for their diligent efforts. Throughout this session, Idaho Launch remained a central focus for the Chamber, and we are delighted to witness its successful culmination. This program aims to keep our workforce strong, and families united by keeping Idaho kids in Idaho. A huge thank you to the Governor, the Workforce Development Council, and the Legislature for their commitment to this initiative. Another key agenda item for the Chamber was the passage of the School Facilities bill. This legislation not only ensures the maintenance of school infrastructure but also secures safe learning environments for Idaho students. Furthermore, it contributes to our ongoing effort to lower income taxes, a continued priority for the Chamber. Liquor Reform remains a priority for the chamber, encouraging economic development and opportunities for our hospitality and tourism industries. Senate Bill 1421 offers clarity to our businesses and allows local representatives the ability to judge what is best for their communities and values. We’re proud to see this legislation pass into law and commend Senator Guthrie, along with multiple others, for their work and commitment to this issue. As another session ends, we acknowledge that numerous challenges persist across various industries, and we remain resolute in our advocacy for Idaho businesses. We are grateful for the unwavering dedication of our members to their communities and look forward to continue serving you! Stay well, Tori Thomas Boise Metro Chamber President and CEO, Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, and I attended The Idaho Business Policy Summit presented by the Idaho Chamber Alliance. It was a great opportunity to connect with chamber staff, Chamber members, and other stakeholders. We heard from Idaho Legislators and other state leaders including Governor Brad Little and Lt. Governor Scott Bedke. Dear Readers, As we enter the sixth week of the legislative session, the landscape remains dynamic with leadership transitions, budgetary considerations, and the conclusion of non-privileged committee bill introductions. Despite the evolving circumstances, we appreciate the work our legislature does and know there is a collective determination to navigate challenges and focus on the well-being of our state and its economic prosperity. Education Issues House Bill 521 addresses the Governor’s budget request to fund school facility maintenance through three avenues; dedicating $125 million in ongoing sales tax revenue for bonding, increasing the sales tax revenue directed to the fund to 3.25% and reducing income taxes from 5.8% to 5.695%. Healthcare Issues In our last update we included information on the Medicaid Expansion Repeal legislation. With over 400 opposing testimonies, the bill has been held in committee on an 8-5 vote. We do believe that some aspects of this bill will make an appearance again and we will continue to update.
Call to Action
Dear Readers, We’re now four weeks into the legislative session and as things pick up, we continue to see uncertainty with the new JFAC budget process, a slew of personal bills and a multitude of education and healthcare issues. The Chamber’s Policy Committee convenes on a weekly basis as the session continues and is focused on ensuring our business community’s voice is heard. Below are some highlights of legislation the Policy Committee has reviewed so far. Education Issues
Healthcare Issues
Federal Issues
Call to Action
Upcoming Legislative Events
If you have any questions or legislation you would like the Chamber to considering weighing in on, please contact me at tthomas@boisechamber.org Sincerely, Tori Thomas Community and Government Affairs Manager, Boise Metro Chamber Dear Readers,
Thank you for visiting the Boise Metro Chamber's NEW blog: Advocacy Update! I will be writing blogs here to offer the Chamber's insight and help you stay informed and engaged with current city, state, and federal legislative affairs. If you have any questions or if there is legislation you would like the Chamber to considering weighing in on, please contact me at tthomas@boisechamber.org Thanks! Tori Thomas Community and Government Affairs Manager, Boise Metro Chamber |
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Community and Government Affairs Manager Archives
May 2024
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