No small potatoes: Idaho’s economic success is a model for the US
 Excerpts from my OpEd for the Washington Examiner:
"Idaho's success is nothing short of extraordinary.
It's also no accident. For years, Idaho has embraced conservative governing principles to create an environment where businesses and individuals can thrive.
We emerged from the pandemic stronger than ever - first in the nation or the top ten on every indicator ranging from economic performance, personal income and employment growth, job recovery, and per-person tax relief.
Since I became Idaho's 33rd governor in 2019, we've issued back-to-back-to-back income tax cuts and implemented a new, lower flat income tax rate. That's on top of the three rounds of income tax rebates, securing two of the single-largest property tax relief measures in state history, and sweeping reform on business taxes.
In fact, Idaho leads the nation in delivering the most tax relief per capita than any other state.
Amid sky-high national inflation caused by the failed federal policies of a lackluster administration, Idaho placed a premium on putting money back in the pockets of hard-working citizens.
That's what good government does - it puts the needs of its people first."
"People want what we have in Idaho.
When I see what's happening in other states and at the federal level, I don't blame them.
D.C. politicians would do well to examine Idaho’s success as they careen toward the next fiscal cliff."
Read my full OpEd by clicking the button below!
Idaho LAUNCH applications open October 3!
In our ever-changing economy, it is more important than ever that we encourage young Idahoans to continue their education and training.
Idaho LAUNCH is our opportunity to help more students start on the pathway to success.
Part of my IDAHO FIRST plan, Idaho LAUNCH is a NEW grant program that will provide Idaho high school graduates with up to $8,000 to attend any Idaho university, community college, career technical or workforce training program!
This program aims to help students seeking in-demand careers get the training and education they need for tomorrow's workforce. All high school seniors are eligible - but don't wait to apply! There is only enough funding for 10,000 Idaho seniors!
Applications for Idaho LAUNCH open October 3. Click the button below for more information on how to apply!
|
Idaho First education investments provide property tax relief to Lewiston!
Idaho's HISTORIC investments in education are strengthening schools AND cutting taxes! Congratulations to the people of Lewiston on their new lower bond and levy rate!
The Lewiston School Board decided to reduce the levy rate a year early because the Idaho Legislature allocated more funding for education.
“The voters renewed the levy and did their part and supported the school,” Cuddy said. “We believe it’s time to do our part and not tax more than we need.”
One of the factors in being able to reduce the rate was that the Idaho Legislature approved an increase in funding to education asked for by Gov. Brad Little. That provided $35.4 million to the school district, which is $3.7 million more than it received last year.
Taxpayers will also be getting more relief from the Legislature in paying off the bond for the new high school. Legislators approved a tax relief bill that provided funds to taxing agencies, including school districts, to first pay off bonds, then levies, or set aside for future building costs if there were any leftover funds.
Hansen said that the more state revenue the school district receives, the less funding local taxpayers have to provide to fill the gap in the budget. For example, the state funds fully covered an increase in teacher pay, which means the supplemental levy doesn’t have to cover that cost.
|
“Leading Idaho” funds Nezperce Airport runway widening
As part of my “Leading Idaho” initiative, the 2021 Idaho Legislature dedicated $126 million to transportation projects statewide! These funds went to communities like the City of Nezperce - helping fund much-needed projects like airport runway improvements! Congratulations to the City of Nezperce!
Earlier in August, $357,340 in Leading Idaho funds created runway widening improvements at the Nezperce Airport in north-central Idaho. The runway was widened from 30 feet to 50 feet, addressing a width deficiency identified in the 2003 planning study, while also providing a strong, smooth pavement surface that should last 20 years.
Three agricultural crop spraying businesses currently operate out of Nezperce Airport and this project will provide a sound runway for them to continue, while also providing future aviation growth opportunities. The runway widening and overlay will improve safety for the flying public operating out of the facility.
“Governor Little’s Leading Idaho initiative has provided the Division of Aeronautics the opportunity to provide funding for worthy aviation projects that may have never been accomplished due to funding shortfalls,” Division of Aeronautics’ Jennifer Schildgen said.
“This project is a great example of how the aviation community is working together to provide the safest aviation system possible. The city of Nezperce has waited 17 years for this project and it is a great honor to have been a part of it.”
|
