By District 1 Senator Jim Woodward
We are in the eighth week of the legislative session. Crafting a balanced budget in the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee is still my primary focus. Outside the budgeting process, other committees have been very busy printing and hearing proposed legislation. At the end of last week, more than 400 pieces of legislation (bills, resolutions, proclamations and memorials), have been introduced and are in varying stages of the legislative process.
To date, two bills have passed both floors and been signed into law: HB 559 – Idaho Internal Revenue Code Conformity and SB 1222 – Revised provisions regarding domestic use of water.
All 2026 legislature by number can be found on the Idaho State Legislature’s page.
Our 50-year-old budget process that has worked well for us for decades is feeling the strain of a few political manipulations from the past couple years. The across-the-board budget cuts this year are a lazy way to reduce spending. If we are truly looking for efficiencies, then we need to understand what is happening within an agency and change policy if necessary. As it stands now, we are going to take a short-term problem and make it a long-term problem.
Part of the across-the-board cut narrative has been that we can go back in and add back funding where truly needed. It’s a nice concept, but we’ve proven it not possible in this political environment.
Two weeks ago, I tried to add funding for Idaho State Patrol trooper pay. The JFAC Chair ruled my motion out of order. Last week, I tried to add back $190,800 of National Guard Tuition Assistance (essentially a state version of the G.I. Bill for those not receiving G.I. Bill benefits). The motion failed on a committee vote. The bill is being held in JFAC for now.
If we aren’t going to support public safety as a state, what are we going to support?
JFAC budget bills still must pass both House and Senate floor votes. There is a chance some of these budget bills won’t pass a floor vote. Many members of both chambers are frustrated with the lack of transparency in the newer budget process. A failed floor vote will force the bill back to JFAC for revision, to start the process over.
My starting point for deciding how to vote is “What is the right answer?”
By this I mean what best represents the interests of our communities and works well for all of us? Too often, voting is based on political expediency. Nearing the primary election, it will be telling to watch the ayes and nays as we vote.
This week is the candidate filing period for Federal, State, Legislative and Judicial officers. I will be running for a fourth term as the Legislative District 1 State Senator, representing the people of Boundary and Bonner Counties.
May 19th is the primary election date. If you would like to support the upcoming campaign we have a few ways to reach us. Your financial support is appreciated.
Checks can be mailed to: Woodward for Senate, PO Box 151, Sagle, ID 83860 or contributions can be made on-line at the campaign website.