JULY REPORT
July 1, 2024, marks the start of the FY 25 budget; thus, programs have both come to an end, and new programs are now underway. Now that the new budget cycle has begun and the week of Independence Day is upon us, it is always a quiet week in state government as agencies now break away from the end-of-fiscal-year chaos and take time for family and summer fun. It’s also a time for us to reflect on all we have as a state and a nation. While the political climate seems worse than ever, there is far more that unites us than divides us. There are many wonderful hardworking people that make Idaho the best state in the best nation in the world. We hope you will join us in taking time this week to reflect on all the good we have here as we safely celebrate our independence and freedoms.
The Joint Finance Appropriations Committee (JFAC) met for three days early in June to hear budget, policy, and performance evaluation updates. The Committee was able to tour the CWI facilities after receiving an update on the Idaho Launch Program that will go live in July to fund thousands of Idaho high school graduates to go on to an in- demand career. The Committee was updated on the lawsuit of Hawkins vs the State of Idaho, related to the sale of the ITD Headquarters. Since this is ongoing litigation, not much could be discussed; however, it was stated oral arguments will start in August, and a decision will be made, most likely in September.
As we enter the summer months, two things remain a constant: wildfire season in Idaho is here, and state employees are jumping to a new agency or leaving to pursue an opportunity in the private sector. This year is no exception, as we continued to see major shifts being made in the Governor’s Office staff and top agency positions, including longtime Chief of Staff Josh Whitworth, leaving the State Controller’s Office as he heads to his new role as Executive Director of the State Board of Education, and more. One of the largest shifts is the newly appointed Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) Director, Alex Adams. As he builds out his executive team, Director Adams’ is building a dream team of some top talent across state government.
Since Director Adams started, he has revamped numerous sections of the rules, including all the rules related to Foster Care Licensing. As he progresses through his eight divisions, IDHW will continue to see major changes to solve internal challenges the Department has struggled with over the years. Director Adams is also reviewing all Division rules to work to eliminate regulatory burdens across the Department. Reducing regulatory burdens is just one of four goals he has set forward: strengthening child welfare, promoting upward mobility, and improving behavioral health. We anticipate seeing IDHW continue to make strides to resolve many of the Legislature’s concerns before the beginning of the 2025 session.
There has been abundant chatter surrounding potential leadership candidates throwing their names into the race for a House or Senate Leadership. While some are waiting until the November General Election results are in to decide what leadership position to run for, some have been very candid about pining for a specific seat in leadership. Potential leadership members have already begun to reach out to new members of the Legislature who removed an incumbent from their seat. As we move closer to the 2024 November General Election, the horse-trading and calculated moves will only grow louder. The May 21st Primary Election results have become official, and all recounts have been completed.
BB&A has continued to work diligently through the summer as we meet with agency directors, new staff, and both returning and new legislators. Our team has also been working to stay ahead of the curve with meetings, news, and political ongoings to best inform and create personalized strategies to achieve your goals. July is a natural reset time period where new policy priorities are created now that the 2024 session priorities are officially live. Do not hesitate to discuss your goals and ideas for the upcoming 2025 session.
