Week 7: Legislative Update

As the legislative session progresses, three IAC Priorities continue to move forward. Below are critical updates and action items for the upcoming week.

House Bill 166 – Public Notices Passes the House 

House Bill 166, which modernizes public notice requirements by allowing notices to be published on the state’s website, passed the House by a razor-thin margin. This was a hard-fought win. Thank you to everyone who reached out to their legislators. Please reach out to legislators who voted YES to thank them for their support. A simple note of appreciation helps strengthen relationships and reinforces the importance of this issue. The next step for this bill is to get a hearing in Senate State Affairs. We need continued engagement on this issue.

Senate Bill 1118 – Procurement Thresholds Hearing Monday at 8 AM

On Monday at 8 AM, the Senate State Affairs Committee will hear Senate Bill 1118, which would increase procurement thresholds to better reflect today’s costs and streamline purchasing processes for counties. Modernizing these limits will improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary delays in local government operations. Please contact committee members ahead of the hearing to express your support. Their contact information is available here.

House Bill 278 – Consolidated Elections Hearing Monday at 9 AM

House Bill 278, which would impact consolidated elections, is scheduled for a hearing in the House State Affairs Committee on Monday at 9 AM. This bill carries significant implications for election administration at the county level. Your engagement is critical—please take a moment to contact committee members and encourage their support. Committee details can be found here.

Call to Action: Reach Out Before Monday

With both of these important hearings taking place Monday morning, now is the time to engage. Contact members of the House and Senate State Affairs Committees and encourage them to support legislation that benefits Idaho’s communities.

For any questions or further guidance, please reach out to the IAC legislative team. Thank you for your continued advocacy on behalf of Idaho’s counties!