IAC’s Legislative Committee Remains Active Through the Summer

The Idaho Association of Counties (IAC) Legislative Committee is not taking the summer off. The group met Wednesday for a midsummer update to remain engaged on key policy and fiscal issues affecting Idaho counties.

 What Was Discussed:

– IAC staff briefed the committee on summer steering committee meeting discussions, which will help shape policy priorities heading into the 2025 legislative session.

– The committee also reviewed the current status of Idaho’s state budget, including how recent revenue trends and the possibility of future tax cuts might affect state funding.

– The committee received an overview of Idaho’s current state budget, including revenue trends, the impact of tax cuts over the past five years, and the current status of the general fund, as well as the governor’s call for potential holdbacks during the upcoming budget year. 

– Staff emphasized the potential impact of those tax cuts on counties, particularly how reductions in state revenue could limit future state support.

 – Members discussed how these possible shifts could affect county budgeting and service delivery in the years ahead.

– These conversations are helping shape IAC’s approach heading into the next session.

– The meeting also included updates on interim legislative activity and opportunities for engagement leading up to the 2025 session.

– Legislative Committee Chair Don Hall (Twin Falls County Commissioner) led the meeting from the IAC office in Boise, ensuring productive discussion.

– Committee members and alternates actively participated, demonstrating continued commitment to policy engagement outside the legislative session.

Why it matters:
This kind of off-season engagement helps counties stay ready, responsive, and relevant when the Legislature reconvenes. The groundwork being laid now strengthens IAC’s ability to advocate effectively when it counts.

What you can do:
Now is the ideal time for county officials to connect with their state legislators. Building these relationships in the interim helps lawmakers better understand county government and creates opportunities for collaboration during the session. County officials and legislators ultimately serve the same constituents, and working together strengthens that shared mission.

The bottom line:

The IAC Legislative Committee is setting a strong example of year-round engagement. Their work helps ensure that county perspectives remain part of relevant policy conversations. Please, follow their lead. Reach out, share your insights, answer questions, and keep county voices at the table.