Bulletin 26-02 – Mandatory Property Insurance Market Data Call
The DOI is collecting detailed policy and claims information to conduct an analysis of the property insurance market within Idaho, specifically as it relates to wildfire. This data will enhance the Department’s understanding of affordability, availability, market dynamics, and insurer exposures, enabling the DOI to fulfill its statutory obligations to regulate the insurance industry and protect consumers. The DOI has designated Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO), a Verisk business, as its agent for the collection and processing of data submitted in response to this bulletin.
View the bulletin as a PDF
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Director Cameron Honors SHIBA Volunteers During National Volunteer Month
During National Volunteer Month, Director Cameron is proud to recognize and celebrate the incredible dedication of Idaho’s Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) volunteers. With compassion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to service, these volunteers empower Idahoans every day as they navigate complex Medicare decisions.
This past year, 95 SHIBA volunteers served communities across all 44 Idaho counties, ensuring seniors and individuals with disabilities have access to clear, trustworthy, and personalized Medicare guidance. Over the past year alone, SHIBA volunteers donated more than 3,446 hours of one-on-one Medicare counseling, a contribution valued at more than $119,800.
Read the full press release
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Orofino Man Sentenced for First-Degree Arson in 2023 TriPlex Fire
Casey Lane Heath has been sentenced after pleading guilty to Arson in the First Degree for intentionally setting multiple fires inside his Orofino residence.
The case stems from an incident in which Heath set fire to his unit in a tri‑plex, igniting four separate points of origin within the home: the kitchen, the living room, a bed in the bedroom, and a closet. The coordinated response and subsequent investigation were conducted by the Orofino Police Department, Orofino Fire Department, and Deputy State Fire Marshal Josh Masterson.
Read the full press release
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Firefighters Train in Wildland Fire Investigation
With higher wildfire activity expected this year, the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office partnered with the Idaho Department of Lands and the Bureau of Land Management to offer basic wildfire scene preservation and investigation training. Gem County Fire District #1 hosted firefighters from across the Snake River Valley.
The National Interagency Coordinating Group–approved course focuses on the crucial first observations made by local crews who arrive at a wildfire scene. Their ability to protect the area of origin helps investigators determine how the fire started.
“Most wildfires are human-caused,” said State Fire Marshal Knute Sandahl. “We need to know whether a fire was intentional or accidental. Local firefighters are our first line of defense—their early observations allow us to secure and collect evidence that may identify a suspect.”
The training helps firefighters recognize key details and avoid disturbing critical evidence.
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Fire Marshal Partners with Mountain Home Fire Department
In March, Mountain Home Fire Department received new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) through a grant. Fire Chief Mark Moore contacted State Fire Marshal Knute Sandahl to help identify Idaho departments in need of their older, still‑serviceable air packs.
The donated equipment was distributed to three departments:
• Placerville Fire Department – 8 air packs, extra tanks, and masks
• Gem County Fire District #1 – 8 air packs and extra tanks
• Twin Ridge Fire Department (Clearwater County) – remaining units
“These air packs are in excellent condition and still within safe operating standards,” said State Fire Marshal Sandahl. “With many departments facing tight budgets, donations like this free up funds for other essential equipment. Considering that a new air pack can cost up to $10,000, the impact is significant.”
The State Fire Marshal’s Office maintains an online resource page where departments can share equipment available for donation or sale. In this case, Sandahl said a posting wasn’t needed: “I immediately knew who needed them.”
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New Consumer Education One‑Pagers Available
Did you know the Department offers downloadable one‑page explainers you can share directly with your consumers? These resources are designed to help Idahoans better understand key insurance topics—including our latest piece on how insurance is regulated in Idaho.
You’re welcome to download and print these one‑pagers from our website anytime. They’re great for outreach events, front‑counter use, community presentations, or simply keeping on hand for consumers who want quick, reliable information.
Explore the full collection on our website and feel free to use them however they best support your work with Idaho consumers.
"Breast Cancer Supplemental Screening Requirements" outlines Idaho’s new breast cancer supplemental screening law which took effect January 1, 2026. It requires most state‑regulated health insurance plans to cover annual supplemental screenings—such as MRI, contrast mammography, or ultrasound—for people at higher risk due to genetic factors, prior radiation, or dense breast tissue. These screenings are covered at no cost when using an in‑network provider.
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If you're looking for a new health plan, pay attention to details before making a final choice.
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