Idaho Execution Law Update Idaho Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 37, making firing squads the primary execution method starting July 1, 2026. Idaho becomes the only state to use firing squads as the main death penalty method. Currently, nine inmates are on death row.
Idaho House Debate Turns Chaotic A legislative travel transparency bill caused chaos in the Idaho House. A motion was introduced to lock the doors and track absent lawmakers but stalled. The House adjourned without a vote, delaying the bill until today.
Homeless Shelter Restrictions Proposed Idaho Senate Bill 1166 proposes banning new homeless shelters within 300 feet of homes in Boise, Meridian, and other large cities. Existing shelters can stay but cannot expand. Critics argue the bill targets Boise’s Interfaith Sanctuary. A Senate hearing is expected soon.
JFAC Faces Voting Rule Clashes Idaho’s budget committee, JFAC, faced clashes over unclear voting rules. Two Democrats walked out in protest as the committee now follows two different voting standards. JFAC oversees Idaho’s state budget, including funds for schools and wildfires.
Grocery Tax Credit Boost House Bill 231, which raises Idaho’s grocery tax credit from $120 to $155 per person in 2026, is now on Governor Little’s desk. The bill also allows refunds up to $250 for itemized grocery taxes. If signed, the change will be retroactive to 2025.
Bill to Collect Students’ Immigration Status Idaho lawmakers introduced House Bill 382, requiring public schools to collect students’ immigration status. Representative Steve Tanner (R-Nampa) claims it’s necessary due to struggles with serving English learners. Representative Jack Nelsen (R-Jerome) opposed the bill, calling it redundant and warning it may encourage fake IDs and deter students. The bill was presented to the Idaho House Education Committee.
Former Firefighter Sentenced Former Jerome firefighter Colton Hoffman was sentenced Tuesday for sex crimes involving a minor and domestic battery. The 35-year-old received seven fixed years plus 15 indeterminate under a plea deal. The investigation began after a relative reported suspicions to Twin Falls Police.
Jerome Mayor Highlights Growth Jerome Mayor Dave Davis highlighted record housing growth and major economic investments in his State of the City address. Idaho Milk Products is investing $190 million, and businesses like D&B Supply and Tractor Supply are expanding. Plans for a new park and a CSI soccer field are also in progress.
Kohberger Defense Claims DNA Was Planted Bryan Kohberger’s defense plans to argue that DNA on a knife sheath at the University of Idaho murder scene may have been planted. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, with the trial set for later this year.
Medicaid Work Requirements Passed The Idaho Senate passed House Bill 345, requiring able-bodied Medicaid recipients to work, study, or volunteer at least 20 hours a week. The bill also shifts Medicaid management to a third party and could save $27 million annually. It now heads to Governor Little.
Quagga Mussel Treatment Update Idaho completed phase two of its Quagga mussel treatment. The ISDA will resume river sampling as waters warm. Boat inspection stations are reopening, with the Highway 93 station near Jackpot set to open on March 22.
High School Basketball All-Star Games The high school basketball season concluded with the district 4 all-star games. Oakley’s Dakota Wadsworth led the East girls with 12 points in a 53-42 win at the Ford Idaho Center. The East boys followed with a 91-85 victory, powered by Kimberly’s Ryker Larson, who scored 14 points.
CSI Softball Splits Doubleheader CSI Softball split their doubleheader with Snow College. The Golden Eagles fell 5-4 in extra innings during game one, despite strong performances from Lily Heitz and Rilyne Keck. CSI bounced back in game two, run-ruling the Badgers 12-3 with Adi Hansen’s three-hit game. Emerson Fuller secured the win, improving CSI to 10-2 in conference play.
Twin Falls Softball Struggles Twin Falls softball struggled in their season opener, falling 18-5 to Pocatello—marking their sixth straight loss to the Thunder. Molly Hodge went 2-for-2 with a home run and two RBI. Hadley Fowler added two runs and two stolen bases. Pocatello also won the rematch, 10-3.
Magic Valley Classic Tournament The 3rd Annual Magic Valley Classic basketball tournament is set for March 28-29. Open to boys (3rd-11th grade) and girls (4th-11th grade) teams, the event will feature participants from three states competing in Twin Falls and Jerome.
Weather Forecast
Today: Rain showers before noon, then a chance of rain and snow showers. High near 45°F. Winds up to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, low around 30°F. Winds up to 15 mph with gusts to 28 mph.
Friday: A slight 20% chance of snow after noon. High near 44°F.
Friday Night: Chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly cloudy, low around 34°F.
Saturday: 50% chance of snow. Partly sunny, high near 45°F. Breezy.
Saturday Night: A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, low around 34°F.
Sunday: Chance of rain and snow in the morning, then rain later. High near 57°F.
Sunday Night: 50% chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, low around 38°F.
Monday: Rain likely, mainly after noon. High near 49°F.
Monday Night: A chance of rain and snow. Low around 31°F.
Tuesday: 40% chance of snow. Partly sunny, high near 45°F. Breezy.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, low around 28°F. Blustery.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 50°F.
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