From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Tue Jan 3 17:05:11 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Wed, 4 Jan 2023 00:05:11 +0000 Subject: Idahoans invited to watch Gov. Little Inauguration and 2023 State of the State Address Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 3, 2023 Idahoans invited to watch Gov. Little Inauguration and 2023 State of the State Address Boise, Idaho - The public is invited to attend the 2023 Inauguration Ceremony and watch Governor Brad Little's upcoming State of the State Address. FRIDAY, Jan. 6, 2023 Governor Brad Little and his fellow constitutional officers will take the oath of office during the 2023 Inauguration Ceremony at the Idaho State Capitol, located at 700 W. Jefferson St. in Boise, at noon. The ceremony will include: * Governor Brad Little * Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke * Secretary of State Phil McGrane * Attorney General Ra?l Labrador * Treasurer Julie Ellsworth * State Controller Brandon Woolf * Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield The event is free and open to the public. Idaho Public Television will provide a live feed of the event, which will be available at www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoreports/. Jefferson Street between 6th and 8th Street will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. Closed, reserved, and ADA-accessible parking will be available on 8th Street between Jefferson and State Street. Designated parking for press members will be available in the Borah parking lot at Jefferson and 8th Street. An elevated platform for media will be positioned across from the Capitol steps on Jefferson Street. Idaho Public Television will provide a live feed of the event for media available through the utility boxes installed on the Jefferson Street sidewalk. As a safety consideration, no aerial drones are permitted in the vicinity over the capitol building. MONDAY, Jan. 9, 2023 Governor Little will give his 2023 State of the State Address in the Idaho House Chambers, located at 700 W. Jefferson St. in Boise, at 1 p.m. Members of the public and media are invited to watch the speech through Idaho Public Television at www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoinsession/house/. # # # NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: Madison Hardy, Press Secretary 208-547-7485 or Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Thu Jan 5 15:51:30 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Thu, 5 Jan 2023 22:51:30 +0000 Subject: UPDATED: Idahoans invited to watch Gov. Little Inauguration and 2023 State of the State Address Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 5, 2023 UPDATED: Idahoans invited to watch Gov. Little Inauguration and 2023 State of the State Address Boise, Idaho - Governor Little invites Idahoans to participate in Inaugural events and to watch his upcoming State of the State Address. FRIDAY, Jan. 6, 2023 Prayer Service Governor Little and his family will attend a prayer service at St. Michael's Episcopal Cathedral, located at 518 N. 8th St. in Boise, at 10 a.m. Inauguration Ceremony Governor Little and his fellow constitutional officers will take the oath of office during the 2023 Inauguration Ceremony at the Idaho State Capitol, located at 700 W. Jefferson St. in Boise, at noon. The ceremony will include: * Governor Brad Little * Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke * Secretary of State Phil McGrane * Attorney General Ra?l Labrador * Treasurer Julie Ellsworth * State Controller Brandon Woolf * Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield The event is free and open to the public. Idaho Public Television will provide a live feed of the event, which will be available at www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoreports/. Jefferson Street between 6th and 8th Street will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. Closed, reserved, and ADA-accessible parking will be available on 8th Street between Jefferson and State Street. Designated parking for press members will be available in the Borah parking lot at Jefferson and 8th Street. An elevated platform for media will be positioned across from the Capitol steps on Jefferson Street. Idaho Public Television will provide a live feed of the event for media available through the utility boxes installed on the Jefferson Street sidewalk. As a safety consideration, no aerial drones are permitted in the vicinity over the capitol building. SATURDAY, Jan. 7, 2023 Governor Little, First Lady Teresa will join state constitutional officers and their families for the Inaugural Procession and Ball inside the Idaho State Capitol, located at 700 W. Jefferson St. in Boise, at 8 p.m. The Inaugural Procession and Ball is a non-partisan event that continues Idaho's long-standing tradition of honoring state elected officials. The Inaugural Ball was first held in the newly built Capitol building following the inauguration of John M. Haines as Idaho's 10th governor in 1913. This 49th Inaugural Ball will continue the traditional Grand Procession. Doors open promptly at 7 p.m., and early admissions will not be allowed to ensure security. Attendees can enter the Capitol from 6th or 8th Street on the first and second floors. Jefferson Street between 6th and 8th Street and 8th Street between Jefferson and State Street will be closed to traffic. Free parking is available at all Capitol Mall parking lots. Credentialled media members should enter the Capitol on the first floor at the State Street entrance at 7 p.m. to meet Lt. Col. Chris Borders and Public Affairs support staff for a briefing on the evening's events. Parking for this event is in the parking lot at the northwest corner of 8th and Jefferson Street. Ticket sales finance the Inaugural Ball, and admission to the event is by ticket only. Tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for children under 12 years of age. Tickets are available for sale to the public at idaho-inaugural-ball.eventbrite.com. MONDAY, Jan. 9, 2023 Governor Little will give his 2023 State of the State Address in the Idaho House Chambers, located at 700 W. Jefferson St. in Boise, at 1 p.m. Members of the public and media are invited to watch the speech through Idaho Public Television at www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoinsession/house/. # # # NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: Madison Hardy, Press Secretary 208-547-7485 or Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Madison Hardy Press Secretary | Idaho Governor Brad Little Phone: 208-854-3015 Mobile: 208-547-7485 Email: Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sign up to receive news from Governor Little -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Fri Jan 6 14:22:04 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Fri, 6 Jan 2023 21:22:04 +0000 Subject: =?utf-8?B?R292LiBMaXR0bGUgcHVibGljbHkgc3dvcm4gaW4gZm9yIHNlY29uZCB0ZXJt?= =?utf-8?B?IGFzIElkYWhv4oCZcyAzM3JkIEdvdmVybm9y?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2023 Gov. Little publicly sworn in for second term as Idaho?s 33rd Governor Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little was publicly sworn in for his second term as Idaho?s 33rd Governor today and delivered his Second Inaugural Address, pledging to continue leading our state?s tremendous economic success and staying on course by focusing on meaningful investments in schools. The Governor, along with Lt. Governor Scott Bedke and other constitutional officers, was sworn in by Idaho Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan during a public ceremony held at the Idaho Capitol today. Governor Little expressed deep gratitude to the people of Idaho and credited Idaho?s enduring values for our historic success. ?No matter how much things seem to change around us ? and change is inevitable ? our Idaho values never seem to drift away from us. Idahoans are still as tough yet compassionate and self-reliant yet community minded as we were from the earliest days of our state?s history when Teresa?s and my ancestors arrived well over 125 years ago,? Governor Little said. The Governor?s first term was marked by record investments in education and infrastructure, unprecedented tax relief, and historic red tape reduction. Idaho emerged from the pandemic with the strongest economy in the nation and continually ranks first or near first in economic strength, budget stability, and good government. Governor Little reiterated his goal: to make Idaho the place where we all can have the opportunity to thrive, where our children and grandchildren choose to stay, and for the ones who have left to choose to return. ?We?ve had our share of hardship and challenges over the past few years, but I have learned we will reach my goal when we put Idaho first and focus on what matters well beyond our time here ? doubling down on our support for school children, supporting our neighbors in need, tax relief, cutting red tape, improving our quality of life ? all while making long-range investments that stand the test of time,? he added. Governor Little pledged to continue leading the state with integrity, civility, and humility. ?Success builds success, and the people of Idaho have continually demonstrated they want our state to keep getting better. It is just who we are,? Governor Little said. A complete copy of Governor Little?s Second Inaugural Address (as prepared) follows and is available here. # # # 2023 Inaugural Address The Honorable Brad Little 33rd Governor of Idaho Friday, January 6, 2023 Teresa and our family, my fellow constitutional officers, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Pro Tem, honored legislators, Mr. Chief Justice, and members of the judiciary. I stand before you incredibly humbled and grateful. The people of Idaho have placed their trust in me to be their Governor for another four years. It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve you ? the people of Idaho ? as the 33rd Governor of our great state. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. First, I want to recognize the men and women of our National Guard and echo Teresa?s comments. The past few years have highlighted even more the tremendous value of our guardsmen in a time of need. These Idahoans sacrifice their safety and time with their families to serve our state and our nation. America and Idaho are a better place because of the service rendered by these selfless neighbors and friends. Thank you, Guardsmen, for everything you do to strengthen our state, keep us safe, and protect the values we all hold dear. ? Idaho is a special place. Yes, Idaho is vast, diverse, and unique in many ways, but it is our people that really sets us apart from every other place. From Boise to Buhl, Cambridge to Coeur d?Alene, Pocatello to Pierce, and everywhere in between, Idahoans for generations have always stepped to up to support their neighbors and improve their communities. When we see a need, we don?t sit idly by and let others (or government) find a solution. Whether it is in our churches, schools, or neighborhoods, Idahoans are there for each other. They work hard, press forward in the face of challenges, and never lose sight of what is most important ? opportunity, faith, family, and freedom. One of the greatest blessings of being in this job is getting to see that spirit of service play out in communities across our state. No matter how much things seem to change around us ? and change is inevitable ? our Idaho values never seem to drift away from us. Idahoans are still as tough yet compassionate and self-reliant yet community minded as we were from the earliest days of our state?s history when Teresa?s and my ancestors arrived well over 125 years ago. Those enduring Idaho values have established the foundation of our incredible success. For the past three decades, I have seen Idaho Governors lead with their own take on our Idaho values. For Phil Batt, a stalwart Republican, it was about governing with the lightest hand. For Dirk Kempthorne, it was about empowering families and children with better education opportunities. For Jim Risch, it was about not wasting a short but unique chance to put your foot on the gas and make huge progress on critical issues. For Butch Otter, it was about wisely navigating a prolonged economic crisis with courage and putting his love of Idaho at the forefront of his decisions. For me, it has always been about putting Idaho first. By now you know my goal: to make Idaho the place where we all can have the opportunity to thrive, where our children and grandchildren choose to stay, and for the ones who have left to choose to return. We?ve had our share of hardship and challenges over the past few years, but I have learned we will reach my goal when we put Idaho first and focus on what matters well beyond our time here ? doubling down on our support for school children, supporting our neighbors in need, tax relief, cutting red tape, improving our quality of life ? all while making long-range investments that stand the test of time. Our enduring Idaho values are also the reason we will continue down this path of prosperity. Idaho has the strongest economy in the nation. We will continue to lead in economic resiliency, budget stability, and good government if we continue to put Idaho first. Success builds success, and the people of Idaho have continually demonstrated they want our state to keep getting better. It is just who we are. My first term as Governor has reinforced the famous saying, ?It's amazing what you can accomplish when you do not care who gets the credit.? What we do here is far more important than any one of us, and the work we do will outlive us all. With that in mind, I want the people of Idaho to know that in my second term as Idaho?s 33rd Governor, I will lead with integrity, civility, and humility ? always putting Idaho first. God bless Idaho, God bless America, and God bless our children and our grandchildren ? Idaho?s future. Thank you. # # # -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Mon Jan 9 14:54:24 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Mon, 9 Jan 2023 21:54:24 +0000 Subject: =?Windows-1252?Q?Gov._Little_rolls_out_=91Idaho_First=92_plan_to_support_?= =?Windows-1252?Q?schools,_provide_property_tax_relief,_fight_fentanyl_in_?= =?Windows-1252?Q?2023_State_of_the_State_and_Budget_Address?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 9, 2023 Gov. Little rolls out ?Idaho First? plan to support schools, provide property tax relief, fight fentanyl in 2023 State of the State and Budget Address Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little delivered his 2023 State of the State and Budget Address today, pledging to deliver on the mandate given by the people of Idaho to continue investing in public schools, strengthen our workforce, provide more tax relief, and promote safe communities. ?Our success did not happen by accident. What we?re doing is working. Plain and simple, the people of Idaho have given us a mandate: to stay on course, put IDAHO FIRST, continue down this path of prosperity, and keep investing in education,? Governor Little said. ?To the people of Idaho, we are listening, and we will continue to deliver. We are not backing down on education ? we are doubling down on education. My budget and policy recommendations deliver on the mandate given to us by the people of Idaho.? Highlights of Governor Little?s State of the State and Budget Address and IDAHO FIRST plan include: * EDUCATION ? 80-percent of Idaho voters affirmed the record education investments passed during the 2022 extraordinary session last September. Governor Little?s plan fulfills the $330 million investment in K-12 public schools by targeting starting teacher pay in the top 10 nationally, boosting pay and benefits for all teachers to keep our state competitive, closing the salary gap for classified staff, improving school facility security, and other steps. * WORKFORCE ? The availability of skilled workers is the #1 challenge facing Idaho employers. Governor Little?s plan gets more skilled workers through their doors and opens more opportunities for Idahoans by providing access to an $8,500 scholarship starting next year to graduating high school students in Idaho to attend an Idaho university, community college, career technical or workforce training program of their choice. The ?Idaho Launch? scholarship will be the single largest investment in career technical and workforce training in state history. * EMPOWERING PARENTS ? Idaho already offers an abundance of school choice options for families, and Governor Little?s plan makes permanent the popular Empowering Parents grant program to support student learning outside the classroom. * TAX RELIEF ? While no local property taxes are paid to state government and no state official can decide what local property taxes will be, Idahoans are demanding relief from rising property taxes. Governor Little?s plan puts $120 million to defray local property taxes. Governor Little?s plan also fulfills the income tax reductions passed during the 2022 extraordinary session, which were affirmed by four out of five Idaho voters. * FIGHT FENTANYL ? Fentanyl is the deadliest drug our society has ever faced. Governor Little is calling for the development of a new statewide drug interdiction team at the Idaho State Police and enhanced testing and training. In addition, a new educational awareness campaign just launched at FentanylTakesAll.org will inform our youth about the dangers of fentanyl. * BACK THE BLUE ? Governor Little?s plan adds 10-percent pay raises for our brave and dedicated law enforcement officers. ?I?ve said it before and I?ll say it again, while other places seek to defund the police, here in Idaho we DEFEND the police!? Governor Little said. * INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS ? Governor Little and the Legislature have championed investments in critical infrastructure without raising taxes or fees. The Governor?s budget builds off these previous commitments with more than $1 billion in new investments including fully funding the known ongoing transportation safety gap and improving local bridges, airports, and pedestrian and safety projects, and expanding broadband. His plan makes continued investments in water, energy, outdoor recreation, and agriculture. * SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES ? Governor Little?s plan continues to implement recommendations from Idaho?s historic three-branch Behavioral Health Council with more than $100 million to expand resources for mental health and childcare, improve emergency medical services in rural areas, add more physicians, and make other investments to improve services for Idaho families. * FISCAL PRUDENCE ? Governor Little?s budget continues fiscal prudence to better prepare Idaho for any economic conditions by paying off debt, addressing deferred maintenance, bolstering rainy-day funds, augmenting the fire suppression fund, maintaining a structurally balanced budget, and leaving a healthy surplus to provide a greater cushion against economic uncertainty. A detailed summary of the Governor?s budget highlights, including investments in education, public safety, transportation, broadband, agriculture and natural resources, water, fire, outdoor recreation, energy, healthcare, and other areas is available here: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/fy24-budget-highlights.pdf The full text of the Governor?s 2023 State of the State and Budget Address is available here: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2023-sots.pdf Special guests at today?s speech included students from Centennial Elementary School in Nampa, the student body presidents at four Idaho colleges, the parents of a boy killed by accidental fentanyl poisoning, members of the Idaho State Police, and veterans. # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor?s press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Tue Jan 10 13:58:01 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Tue, 10 Jan 2023 20:58:01 +0000 Subject: Gov. Little appoints new Agriculture Director following retirement of Celia Gould Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 10, 2023 Gov. Little appoints new Agriculture Director following retirement of Celia Gould Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little announced today his appointment of Chanel Tewalt as the new director of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). Tewalt replaces Celia Gould, who is retiring after 16 years of dedicated service to the State of Idaho as ISDA director. Gould, a Twin Fall native, is a third-generation owner and operator of a cattle ranch in Buhl. Before becoming the first female director of ISDA, Gould served in the Idaho House of Representatives for 16 years, from 1996 to 2002. Gould's leadership of the ISDA is highlighted through her organization of several international trade missions, steering the department and agriculture industry through the recession, and increasing Idaho's agricultural exports from $1.2 billion in 2007 to nearly $2.7 billion in 2021. "Over these 16 years, I am honored to have worked alongside incredible staff, two great governors, and an industry second to none," Gould said. "It has been a joy to work on the significant events and quiet efforts that assisted and highlighted Idaho agriculture. I am now blessed to return to the ranch with my family." "There are few people who understand every aspect of the Idaho agriculture industry like Celia Gould. It takes a special person to accomplish what she has as director. I have greatly appreciated Celia's wisdom, work ethic, integrity, and friendship throughout her service to the State of Idaho," Governor Little said. "While she will be greatly missed, her retirement is well deserved. I trust the agency will be in excellent hands under Chanel Tewalt's leadership." Tewalt has served as deputy director for the ISDA since 2021. Initially joining the agency as a college intern, Tewalt has gained over 15 years of experience working at ISDA, including as the agency's chief operations officer. "It is a privilege to be considered for this role. Agriculture has shaped my life in countless ways," Tewalt said. "I have a deep admiration for the industry and for the hard-working people who make it possible. I also understand how important it is for ISDA's work to be implemented with transparency, consistency, and balance." # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor's press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov. Madison Hardy Press Secretary | Idaho Governor Brad Little Phone: 208-854-3015 Mobile: 208-547-7485 Email: Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sign up to receive news from Governor Little -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Wed Jan 11 12:31:55 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:31:55 +0000 Subject: Gov. Little announces staff changes Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 11, 2023 Gov. Little announces staff changes Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little announced today two changes to his staff. Hayden Rogers returned to the Governor's Office after managing the Governor's successful re-election campaign since May 2021. Rogers previously served in the Governor's Office for two years and was a field director on the Governor's first gubernatorial campaign from December 2017 to January 2019. As the Governor's Senior Political Advisor, Rogers will work with key state agencies to advance the Governor's priorities for Idaho relating to housing, finance, and technology. He also will serve as a liaison to communities in eastern Idaho for the Governor. He is a graduate of Boise State University. Darren Damon started in January as the Governor's newest policy advisor. Damon will work with state agencies to advance the Governor's priorities on natural resources and occupational licensing, among other issues. He has more than six years of strategic communications experience, most recently working for Bilbao & Co. and KTVB in Boise. Damon replaces former policy advisor Nate Fisher, Jr., who accepted a government affairs position with Idaho Power after working in the Governor's Office for four years. Damon is a graduate of the University of Idaho. "As the new legislative session begins and we start my second term as Idaho's Governor, it is important that my team is filled with high-quality employees committed to putting Idaho first. Hayden and Darren are great additions to the office who will help advance in our shared goal of making Idaho the place where all can thrive and where our children and grandchildren choose to stay," Governor Little said. # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor's press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov. Madison Hardy Press Secretary | Idaho Governor Brad Little Phone: 208-854-3015 Mobile: 208-547-7485 Email: Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sign up to receive news from Governor Little -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Fri Jan 13 14:26:46 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Fri, 13 Jan 2023 21:26:46 +0000 Subject: Gov. Little appoints Edward Lodge to Public Utilities Commission Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2023 Gov. Little appoints Edward Lodge to Public Utilities Commission Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little announced today his appointment of Edward Lodge to the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (IPUC), the body that regulates investor-owned or privately-owned utilities that provide gas, water, electricity or some telephone services for profit. Lodge replaces John Chatburn, who is retiring from the commission after nearly three decades of service to the State of Idaho. Lodge has spent more than 20 years working in federal, state, and local public and governmental affairs. His experience includes 17 years of regulatory responsibilities in the Idaho telecommunications industry. Lodge formerly served as Special Assistant to Governor Dirk Kempthorne and Director of Communications for Governor Phil Batt. He currently serves as Vice President of the Caldwell Night Rodeo and as a board member of the Western Heritage Foundation. Lodge received his Master of Business Administration from George Fox University in Newberg, Ore. "Ed Lodge has a long history of working with government entities to ensure that the needs of Idahoans are met. I have the utmost confidence that he will carry over that collaborative spirit into his new role on the commission, and I greatly appreciate his predecessor, John Chatburn, for his many years of dedicated service to the State of Idaho." "I am grateful to Governor Little for the opportunity to serve the people of Idaho as an Idaho Public Utilities Commissioner," Lodge said. "Growing up in a family of public servants, I was taught at an early age that service to others is a profound privilege and responsibility. Because utilities play such an important, dynamic, and ever evolving role in our daily lives, I look forward to working hard for the people of Idaho in this important capacity." # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor's press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Thu Jan 19 11:33:34 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Thu, 19 Jan 2023 18:33:34 +0000 Subject: =?Windows-1252?Q?Weiser_to_host_Governor_Little=92s_=91Capital_for_a_Day?= =?Windows-1252?Q?=92_event?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 20, 2023 Weiser to host Governor Little?s ?Capital for a Day? event Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little?s next ?Capital for a Day? event will be held in Weiser on January 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Vendome Event Center, located at 309 State St. Officials joining Governor Little include: * Idaho Department of Financial Management Administrator Alex Adams * Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen * Idaho Department of Fish and Game Regional Supervisor Josh Royse * Idaho Department of Labor Director Jani Revier * Idaho Department of Lands Division Administrator Mick Thomas * Idaho State Police Lt. Colonel Sheldon Kelley ?It is an honor to host my next Capital for a Day in Weiser,? Governor Little said. ?This event will give the good people of Washington County a chance to discuss what?s on their minds when it comes to good government and how we can better serve them.? # # # NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: Madison Hardy, Press Secretary 208-547-7485 or Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Madison Hardy Press Secretary | Idaho Governor Brad Little Phone: 208-854-3015 Mobile: 208-547-7485 Email: Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sign up to receive news from Governor Little -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 68980 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Fri Jan 20 16:22:41 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Fri, 20 Jan 2023 23:22:41 +0000 Subject: Idaho wins lawsuit, protects life and property from illegal encampments Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 20, 2023 Idaho wins lawsuit, protects life and property from illegal encampments Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little was victorious in winning a lawsuit stemming from an encampment on the Capitol Annex, protecting the state's ability to prevent illegal encampments that harm public property and pose significant health and safety risks. A judge's decision earlier this month granted the Governor's motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by activists challenging his administration's actions to remove the encampment on public property. "We've sent a clear message: Idaho does not tolerate illegal public encampments and destruction of public property. Idaho is not Portland, LA, San Francisco, or Seattle where public officials have engaged in failed experiments to permit and encourage unsafe and destructive public camping," Governor Little said. "Our successful outcome is the result of a deliberate, careful, thoughtful strategy involving complex legal issues while ensuring the state meets is obligation to protect public health and safety." Individuals started gathering on the state property located at Jefferson and 6th streets in Boise one year ago in mid-January. Since then, there were a growing number of violations and dangerous conduct requiring increased calls for police service and enforcement action, including multiple instances of: * The presence of hypodermic needles * Bags containing human feces and urine * Soiled clothing * Vomit-covered tents * Rotting food * Abandoned property * Violence * Drug abuse and distribution * Garbage * Fire hazards At Governor Little's direction, the Department of Administration filed a lawsuit in March of 2022 to stop the illegal public camping and the associated health and safety violations taking place on state property. In the days following the lawsuit, individuals started clearing out of the encampment and the state removed abandoned tents, garbage, and other harmful waste. In April of 2022, public encampment advocates filed a lawsuit challenging the state's action. The Governor moved to dismiss the lawsuit, and the court this month favored the state's position. The court pointed out that Idaho has a significant interest in "maintaining the Capitol grounds in an attractive and intact condition... ensuring the health and safety of its citizens, and providing unobstructed grounds and convenient access to the Capitol Mall area." "It is unfortunate activists chose to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community and encouraged the illegal activity while resources are available nearby to help these individuals," Governor Little added. "Combatting public encampments serves the best interests of all Idahoans." # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor's press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Tue Jan 24 14:33:13 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:33:13 +0000 Subject: =?Windows-1252?Q?UPDATED:_Weiser_to_host_Governor_Little=92s_=91Capital_f?= =?Windows-1252?Q?or_a_Day=92_event?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 24, 2023 UPDATED: Weiser to host Governor Little?s ?Capital for a Day? event Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little?s next ?Capital for a Day? event will be held in Weiser on January 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Vendome Event Center, located at 309 State St. Officials joining Governor Little include: * Idaho Commission on Aging Director Judy Taylor * Idaho Department of Commerce Director Tom Kealey * Idaho Department of Corrections Deputy Director Bree Derrick * Idaho Department of Environmental Quality Deputy Director Kristin Ryan * Idaho Department of Financial Management Administrator Alex Adams * Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen * Idaho Department of Fish and Game Regional Supervisor Josh Royse * Idaho Department of Labor Director Jani Revier * Idaho Department of Lands Division Administrator Mick Thomas * Idaho State Department of Agriculture Director Chanel Tewalt * Idaho State Police Lt. Colonel Sheldon Kelley In addition, local officials and representatives of the following agencies and state entities will be on hand to help answer questions: Idaho Commission on Aging, Idaho Department of Commerce, and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. ?It is an honor to host my next Capital for a Day in Weiser,? Governor Little said. ?This event will give the good people of Washington County a chance to discuss what?s on their minds when it comes to good government and how we can better serve them.? # # # NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: Madison Hardy, Press Secretary 208-547-7485 or Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Madison Hardy Press Secretary | Idaho Governor Brad Little Phone: 208-854-3015 Mobile: 208-547-7485 Email: Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sign up to receive news from Governor Little -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 68980 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Mon Jan 30 15:33:23 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2023 22:33:23 +0000 Subject: =?Windows-1252?Q?Gov._Little_leads_governors_in_opposing_Biden=92s_EPA_wa?= =?Windows-1252?Q?ters_rule?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2023 Gov. Little leads governors in opposing Biden?s EPA waters rule Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little is leading 24 other Republican Governors in opposing the Biden Administration?s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and called on President Joe Biden today to delay implementation of the rule until the U.S. Supreme Court issues a ruling in Sackett v. EPA, a case involving an Idaho couple. ?Biden?s overreaching WOTUS rule threatens rural communities across Idaho and America, creating uncertainty for farmers, ranchers, property owners, and everyday citizens at a time when they?re already hurting from record inflation,? Governor Little said. ?I?m proud to lead our nation?s Governors in calling on President Biden to abandon this attempt to subject rural America ? the backbone of our nation ? to more onerous federal regulation.? Biden?s WOTUS rule seeks to put puddles, ditches, watering ponds, and other small water features under federal protection. It is being implemented months before the U.S. Supreme Court is expected to decide Sackett, which could significantly alter the regulatory authority of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Biden Administration?s attempt to regulate private ponds and ditches could waste state and federal resources and cause unnecessary tension for farmers and rural communities. Signatories to the letter include: Governors Brad Little (ID), Kay Ivey (AL), Mike Dunleavy (AK), Sarah Sanders (AR), Ron DeSantis (FL), Brian Kemp (GA), Eric Holcomb (IN), Kim Reynolds (IA), Tate Reeves (MS), Mike Parson (MO), Greg Gianforte (MT), Jim Pillen (NE), Joe Lombardo (NV), Chris Sununu (NH), Doug Burgum (ND), Mike DeWine (OH), Kevin Stitt (OK), Henry McMaster (SC), Kristi Noem (SD), Bill Lee (TN), Greg Abbott (TX), Spencer Cox (UT), Glenn Youngkin (VA), Jim Justice (WV), and Mark Gordon (WY). Portions of the letter are included below: ?Another burdensome and overly broad regulation from the federal government could not come at a worse time for America. Having already squandered much of America?s energy independence, you should not increase costs for consumers by tying up energy production with even more red tape.? ? ?We call into question the timing and necessity of the rule with the court?s upcoming Sackett decision which is expected by June of this year. That opinion could significantly impact the final rule and its implementation. To change the rule multiple times in six months is an inefficient and wasteful use of state and federal resources and will impose an unnecessary strain on farmers, builders, and every other impacted sector of the American economy.? ? ?The substance of the rule hinders state governments as we seek to give clarity and consistency to businesses, farms, and individuals regarding the regulatory framework for water.? ? The letter from 25 Governors to President Biden is available here. # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor?s press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov Tue Jan 31 12:01:05 2023 From: id_gov_news at gov.idaho.gov (Gov. Brad Little) Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2023 19:01:05 +0000 Subject: =?Windows-1252?Q?Wall_Street_Journal_highlights_Idaho=92s_historic_tax_cu?= =?Windows-1252?Q?ts?= Message-ID: [Graphical user interface, text Description automatically generated] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 31, 2023 Wall Street Journal highlights Idaho?s historic tax cuts Boise, Idaho ? Governor Brad Little commented today on The Wall Street Journal editorial board?s piece highlighting Idaho?s historic tax cuts. ?The Idaho Legislature and I have worked together to achieve historic tax cuts for Idaho businesses and families, and we?re not done yet. We?ve turned back more tax relief per capita than any other state, with more property tax relief on the way,? Governor Little said. ?It?s wonderful to see Idaho in the national spotlight for our relentless focus on the taxpayer. For years, we have demonstrated that ?kitchen table economics? leads to prosperity ? we choose to live within our means, continually return the people?s money, cut waste and stretch our dollars further, make investments where they count, and save for hard times.? The editorial titled ?The State Tax-Cut Movement,? states in part: ?Many states that cut taxes in the early stage of the revenue boom have sustained or expanded their surpluses. That?s what happened in Idaho, which boasts one of the best-performing state budgets according to Pew. In May 2021 Gov. Brad Little cut the top rate on income to 6.5% from 6.93% amid a $900 million surplus. The state?s surplus grew by more than 50% the next year, and Gov. Little followed up by reducing the income tax to a flat 5.8%.? Since 2019 when Governor Little took office, Idaho has returned more than $2.7 billion in one-time tax relief and more than $650 million in ongoing tax relief, including the new, lower flat income tax adopted during the September 2022 extraordinary session. Eighty-percent of Idaho voters approved the move along with historic investments in public schools. The editorial goes on to compare Idaho?s success with the failures of California: ?States that don?t cut taxes in times of surplus invariably spend more, often building commitments that are hard to sustain and lead to pressure to raise taxes in the lean economic years. That?s what happened last year in California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom followed a $97 billion surplus with a $300 billion budget, including new climate spending and expanded Medicaid for illegal migrants. This month the state announced a $23 billion deficit. ?The tax-cutting spree is increasing the tax divide between GOP-led and progressive Democratic states. This in turn contributes to more cross-state migration. From Florida to Texas and Idaho, the states that draw the most new residents from other states tend to have much lower tax rates. Population losers like New Jersey, New York and California are among the most punitive taxers. ?Competition is moving states toward better tax codes, and the trend is compounding. Americans in states that haven?t joined the tax cutters at least have more places to move to.? # # # Please DO NOT REPLY to this message. For press inquiries only, contact the Governor?s press office at (208) 854-3015 or e-mail Madison.Hardy at gov.idaho.gov. To unsubscribe from these announcements, send an e-mail to news at gov.idaho.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 98275 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: