NEWS 
Senate Approves $50M Tax Credit for Private Education
The Senate has approved a $50 million refundable tax credit plan for private education expenses. The bill now heads to Governor Brad Little, who has not publicly stated his stance but previously expressed support for a similar measure. If signed, non-public school students could claim up to $5,000, while students with special needs could receive $7,500.
Idaho Educators React to Trump’s Plan to Eliminate U.S. Department of Education
Idaho educators are uncertain about former President Trump’s plan to shut down the U.S. Department of Education. State Superintendent Debbie Critchfield says she is “not panicking” and believes Idaho will be okay, emphasizing the state’s independence from federal education funding.
Idaho House Bill 7: Marijuana Possession Could Mean a $300 Fine
A $20 marijuana purchase could soon mean a $300 fine under Idaho’s House Bill 7. The bill, which sets a minimum fine for possession, passed the Senate 27-8 and now heads to the governor’s desk. Supporters say it discourages drug use, while critics argue it removes judicial discretion.
Judge Denies Motions to Suppress Evidence in Kohberger Trial
A judge has denied motions to suppress evidence in the trial of Bryan Kohberger, the man accused of killing four University of Idaho students in 2022. His defense argued the genetic investigation used to identify him was unconstitutional, but the judge ruled that the evidence will stand.
Idaho State Police Investigate Semi Fire on I-84
Idaho State Police are investigating a late-night semi-trailer fire on eastbound I-84 near mile marker 21 near Boise. The driver was uninjured, but all eastbound lanes remain blocked, with traffic diverted to Old Highway 30. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
U.S. Bank to Close Wendell Branch
Wendell residents will soon lose a local banking option. U.S. Bank has announced the closure of its Wendell branch on May 6. It is one of several Idaho locations shutting down before June as part of broader closures across the state.
Cyberattack Impacts The Times-News
The Times-News has been affected by a cybersecurity event. Parent company Lee Enterprises says it shut down multiple networks in recent weeks and is investigating what information may have been compromised. Law enforcement has been notified.
SPORTS 
Dietrich Advances to 1A Sawtooth Championship
The top-ranked Dietrich Blue Devils dominated Richfield 65-38 last night, advancing to the 1A Sawtooth Championship. They will face No. 2 Carey next Wednesday at CSI in a rematch of the 1A football title game. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m.
Boys’ Basketball Tournament Action
- 5A Great Basin: No. 3 Burley crushed Wood River 76-20 and will face Minico on Saturday. Jerome topped Mountain Home 54-41 and moves on to play No. 1 Twin Falls on Saturday.
- 4A Sawtooth Central Idaho: Filer upset No. 1 Kimberly 68-53 to reach the championship game Wednesday. Kimberly awaits the Gooding-Buhl winner.
- 2A Snake River: No. 1 Valley defeated Glenns Ferry 79-54 and will face Hagerman in the championship Tuesday. Murtaugh stays alive after beating Shoshone 55-38.
- 1A Sawtooth: No. 2 Carey beat Camas County 59-47 and will battle No. 1 Dietrich for the title on Feb. 26. Camas hosts Hansen in consolation play Monday.
Oakley Lady Hornets Headed to 2A State Tournament
The Oakley Lady Hornets are heading to their fourth straight 2A state tournament as the No. 1 seed, boasting a 21-1 record. After claiming their third straight Snake River title, they face No. 8 Wilder in the first round Thursday at 5 p.m. at Columbia High School. Oakley’s fast-paced play and tough defense make them a top contender!
Boise State Stuns No. 22 New Mexico
In men’s college basketball, Boise State took down No. 22 New Mexico 86-78 at ExtraMile Arena. Tyson Degenhart led the way with a career-high 32 points, while Pearson Carmichael helped seal the win. The Broncos improve to 18-8 on the season and remain dominant at home under Coach Leon Rice.
Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty Named Sullivan Award Semifinalist
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is a semifinalist for the AAU Sullivan Award, given to the nation’s top athlete. Jeanty’s record-breaking 2024 season saw him rush for 2,601 yards—the second-most in FBS history. He led Boise State to another Mountain West title, earned unanimous All-American honors, and finished second in Heisman voting. Fans can vote now, with the winner decided in mid-March.
WEATHER 
Today:
A mix of rain and snow early, then gradual clearing with a high near 41°F. Winds up to 31 mph.
Tonight:
Mostly clear, low of 24°F. West-southwest winds 6-11 mph with gusts up to 22 mph.
Friday:
Sunny, high near 42°F. Light and variable winds.
Friday Night:
Partly cloudy, low near 26°F.
Saturday:
Partly sunny, high near 48°F.
Sunday:
A 40% chance of rain, mostly cloudy, high near 50°F.
Monday:
Partly sunny, high near 58°F.
Tuesday:
Mostly sunny, high near 52°F.
Wednesday:
Sunny, high near 52°F.
- DOGE won’t get broad access to IRS personal taxpayer info, agreement states - February 21, 2025
- Menendez brothers case: DA asks court to deny their petition for new trial - February 21, 2025
- Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio arrested at US Capitol - February 21, 2025
