Dear Readers,

Imagine the scene: it’s mid-May, April showers brought May flowers, and Idaho’s Primary Election is just one week away. You're all set – registered to vote, knowing your polling place or ready for early voting. There's a buzz in the air, a sense of excitement mixed with empowerment. But then, a crucial question arises: "Who should I vote for?" Don't worry, our members have your back!

There are numerous resources when making the decision to vote. Last week we shared voteidaho.gov, which offers great resources regarding how to vote, election data and more. Below we wanted to share the expertise of a few of our members. There is so much information being distributed and through trusted sources like these, we believe you’ll feel ready to head to the polls! 

Recently, KTVB's voter guide was released, which provides information about each race coming up and what you can expect to see on your ballot. They also have multiple articles regarding the upcoming election. 

The Idaho EdNews voter guide focuses on the legislative race, with candidates that have a role within education policy. They asked candidates about their most important education priorities and where they stand regarding education issues that divide the legislature. Idaho EdNews wants to ensure Idahoans aren’t just voters, but educated ones. 

Idaho Statesman's voter guide “will help you decide your favorite candidates based on their own words.” They asked candidates in contested races multiple questions including what their top priorities are and what they feel their district needs most in a legislator. You will need a subscription to view this voter guide. 

Additionally, below are three ways to make the most out of your voting experience.

1. Swing by one of our many local coffee shops and treat yourself to a delectable delight as your journey to or from the polls. Sip on an iced coffee to fuel your civic spirit!
2. Rally your squad for a leisurely stroll to the early voting station or your neighborhood polling place. Turn the journey into a lively outing filled with laughter and camaraderie.
3. Embrace the thrill of the open road (or sidewalk) by hopping aboard a Lime scooter or bike. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you zip your way to cast your vote in style.

Stay well and happy voting!
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Tori Thomas
Community and Government Affairs Manager, Boise Metro Chamber

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

Dear Readers,
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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.

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Healthcare Issues 

• There is currently an attempt to repeal Medicaid expansion. House Bill 419 requires certain conditions that Idaho Medicaid must meet, or expansion will be eliminated in July 2025. Requirements include an enrollment cap of 50,000 (currently at over 90,000), work requirements and more.  ​For more information, check out Idaho Capital Sun’s article 

Federal Issues 

• The Corporate Transparency Act went into effect January 1st, 2024. The CTA aims to combat tax fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing by requiring certain U.S. businesses to submit a “Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)” Report to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This is intended to prevent illegal activities, safeguarding national security and economic integrity. To learn more, read this article by the U.S Chamber.  
• Senator Mike Crapo’s Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act legislation currently has 60 co-sponsors in the U.S. Senate. This bill allows Medicare coverage and payment for multi-cancer early detection screening. We’re grateful for Senator Crapo’s leadership and all the work he continues to do for Idaho stakeholders! To learn more about this legislation and Senator Crapo’s work, you can visit his website or read this article from the Idaho Statesman.  

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Call to Action 

• Contact your legislators to show your gratitude, concerns, or perspective! Who is my Legislator is a great resource to look at districts and get to know your legislators. 
• Show your support for Idaho Launch – post on social media, contact your legislators, or host a topic expert (Idaho Workforce Development Council, Governor’s Office, etc.) to share the details of the program! ​

Upcoming Legislative Events 

• Our third installment of our virtual Legislative Update Series is scheduled for February 13th at 12pm. Senator Lori Den Hartog and Representative Brooke Green will join us to discuss the policy and funding aspects of transportation. This series is sponsored by Optum Idaho and will broadcast on all of our social media channels or watch on YouTube here.  
• Join us on Wednesday, February 21st at 8am for our Congressional forum with Representative Russ Fulcher. You can learn more about this event and register here.

If you have any questions or legislation you would like the Chamber to considering weighing in on, please contact me at [email protected] ​

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 [email protected] 

Thanks!

Tori Thomas
Community and Government Affairs Manager, Boise Metro Chamber