From the Desk of the Governor
June 9, 2021
Yet again, Idaho’s booming economy blows past projections, paving way for more tax relief, investments in education
Idaho’s booming economy resulted in May state revenue figures coming in $580 million ahead of forecast – the best month for state revenues in the history of Idaho – with the potential to end the fiscal year in June with another record budget surplus of close to $800 million, an all-time high!

Years of fiscal conservatism, swift action during the pandemic, few COVID restrictions, responsible allocation of federal relief dollars, and our relentless focus on cutting red tape are the reasons Idaho’s economy is catapulting ahead of other states right now!

Idaho’s economy and state budget continue to strengthen, paving the way for even more tax relief for Idahoans and added investments in education, roads, clean water, broadband and other areas next year.
Idahoans hit the road with sustainable transportation funding
Summer road trip season is here. While we all dread the orange cones symbolizing construction, Idahoans can soon expect safer, less congested roads following the passage of my sustainable transportation funding solution.

My plan directs $80 million in ongoing funding, allowing the state to bond for up to $1.6 billion for transportation infrastructure projects statewide.

It is the single largest state investment in transportation infrastructure in Idaho history.

The solution was achieved without raising Idahoans’ taxes or fees.

The Idaho Legislature and I also directed $126 million in one-time funds this year from the record budget surplus.
As you travel this summer, please remember to use caution and exercise patience. Idaho State Police are working diligently during the "100 Deadliest Days" -- the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when fatal crashes increase dramatically -- to make sure our roads are safe.

The Idaho State Police want to remind motorists of these essential safe driving habits, and encourage friends and families to talk about safe driving habits with their loved ones:

  • Buckle up
  • Drive engaged
  • Drive sober
  • Keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you
  • Avoid excessive speed and other aggressive driving behaviors

For more on having a conversation with a loved one about safe and engaged driving, go to shift-idaho.org.
Idaho's economy among the best in the nation
Quick action during the pandemic, combined with years of fiscal conservatism and cutting red tape, have positioned Idaho for incredible prosperity!

  • Idaho is a top 10 state for lowest unemployment rates
  • Idaho is a top 10 state for "Best States to Start a Small Business"
  • Idaho is a top 10 state for inbound migration
  • Idaho is a top 10 state for states recovering the fastest from the pandemic
Idaho law protecting the preborn is in line with American values
I was proud to sign the Fetal Heartbeat Bill into law in April, banning abortions after a baby’s heartbeat is detected.

New polling ahead of the 15-week abortion ban case before the U.S. Supreme Court suggests laws like Idaho’s are in line with what the majority of American voters expect.

Idaho will continue to proudly advocate for laws that protect the lives of the preborn!
Fire season is here
Here in Idaho, we are combatting the divisive, defeatist “climate fire” rhetoric by investing in the active management of our lands and adding resources for fire suppression, Good Neighbor Authority, and Shared Stewardship!
Pushing back on Biden for undoing Trump’s progress on environmental regulations
Last week, the Biden Administration announced it will undo years of progress in modernizing the Endangered Species Act under the leadership of President Donald Trump.

The Biden Administration’s announcement that it intends to undo much of the hard work that has gone into modernizing the application of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is a major disappointment. Revisions to the ESA and its implementing regulations have been long overdue. Dismantling the progress we’ve made so far will not improve the Act’s effectiveness. It only serves to reinstate unnecessary regulatory burdens on the states and local communities that are most critical to the ESA’s success. 

Idaho has and will continue to advocate for a common-sense application of the ESA that recognizes the fundamental role regulatory flexibility plays in achieving the goals of the Act – by empowering states and local communities to lead the conservation charge to recover listed species.
Upholding America's immigration laws
A unanimous decision from the U.S. Supreme Court recognizes one basic fact: if you want to achieve permanent residency in America, you must have entered America legally! The U.S. Supreme Court delivered on its duty to apply the law as Congress passed it.
ON THE ROAD
There’s a beautiful and humbling new statue at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery. Teresa and I participated in a Memorial Day event to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and protect our freedom.
The Rock Creek Station & Stricker Homesite in the Magic Valley embody the Old West! We cut the ribbon so everyone can see this piece of Idaho history!
Parade season is back! It was great to see all the friends and families at the Western Days parade in Twin Falls.
Idaho’s agricultural future is bright with leaders like these! Great kids in the Weiser FFA program!
Moscow welcomes new SEL facility, thanks to Idaho's excellent business climate
Idaho is a place that encourages innovation and removes unnecessary barriers so that businesses and communities thrive. 

Dr. Schweitzer is an inventor and understands that the best way for people to practice their arts is for government to get out of the way.

SEL’s printed circuit board manufacturing facility will be the newest, state-of-the-art, and environmentally friendly facility of its kind in the nation, not because the government told them to though, because they want to be good neighbors and care about the environment. It is just the right thing to do.