POLITICS & GOVERNMENT
Medicaid Reform Signed Into Law
Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 345, the Medicaid Reform and Cost Containment Act, aiming to balance healthcare access with fiscal responsibility. He emphasized respecting voters’ 2018 approval of Medicaid expansion while ensuring sustainability.
Idaho House Passes Controversial Immigration Bill
The Idaho House passed a revised immigration bill in a 61-9 party-line vote, incorporating provisions from Senate Bill 1039. The bill allows law enforcement to record a person’s documentation status only if they are detained or investigated for a crime. Unauthorized immigrants involved in a crime would face a misdemeanor for “illegal entry,” with a second offense upgraded to a felony. The bill also criminalizes knowingly transporting an undocumented immigrant with a criminal record. The ACLU of Idaho opposes the bill, citing racial profiling concerns and plans to sue if enacted. The bill now awaits Gov. Brad Little’s decision.
Federal Judge Upholds Idaho Library Law
A federal judge denied an Idaho coalition’s request to block enforcement of House Bill 710, which requires public libraries to relocate materials deemed harmful to children. Some plaintiffs were dismissed from the case, while others continue to challenge the law.
Idaho Budget Committee Rejects Federal Home Energy Funds
The Idaho budget committee (JFAC) rejected $24.6 million in federal funding for home energy rebates, despite Governor Little’s request. The funds, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, will now be reallocated to other states instead of benefiting Idaho homeowners.
JFAC Faces Delays Over New Voting Rules
Idaho’s powerful budget committee, JFAC, continues to struggle with new voting procedures, causing confusion and delays in finalizing the 2026 budget. Tensions remain high as lawmakers work to resolve issues before adjourning.
New Idaho Department of Correction Director Appointed
Governor Brad Little announced Bree Derrick as the new director of the Idaho Department of Correction, replacing Josh Tewalt, who is moving to the private sector. Derrick, IDOC’s deputy director since 2019, is recognized for her leadership in corrections and crime reduction.
CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY
Kohberger Trial: Prosecutors Present New Evidence
Prosecutors in the Bryan Kohberger trial say they have evidence he bought a knife and sheath online before the fatal stabbings of four University of Idaho students. They’re seeking to present his Amazon shopping activity and a photo of him to support their case. The trial begins August 11.
Idaho State Police Crack Down on Reckless Motorcyclists
After a 17-year-old fled a traffic stop in Boise at high speeds and crashed, Idaho State Police (ISP) are cracking down on reckless motorcycle riding. ISP urges riders to obey traffic laws and reminds the public to report dangerous riding.
Fatal Hit-and-Run: Police Searching for Suspect Vehicle
Idaho State Police are searching for a silver or light gray 2004-2006 Acura TL involved in a fatal hit-and-run on March 18 near US20-26. If you have information, call ISP dispatch at (208) 846-7500.
BUSINESS & DEVELOPMENT
Chobani Expands Twin Falls Facility
Chobani broke ground yesterday on a massive $500 million expansion in Twin Falls, adding 500,000 square feet to the world’s largest yogurt plant. The project will boost production by 50% and double milk usage.
Jerome Streetscape Improvement Project Begins
Jerome’s streetscape improvement project kicks off April 1st at Alder and West Ave A, bringing new sidewalks, lighting, and accessibility upgrades. A second phase on Main Street is in final design, with road reconstruction and water main updates planned.
ECONOMY & EMPLOYMENT
Idaho Unemployment Holds at 3.8%
Idaho’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.8% in January, with slight job growth in construction and health care. Year-over-year, the labor force grew 2.2%. Nationally, unemployment dipped to 4%, with payroll jobs increasing by 151,000.
SPORTS
CSI Softball Crushes Treasure Valley CC
The College of Southern Idaho Softball team dominated Treasure Valley CC in a doubleheader Tuesday, winning 25-0 and 14-3. Key performances:
Lily Heitz, Anslie Yazzie, Lexi Crowley led at the plate.
Eva Stoddard & Emerson Fuller combined for a shutout in game one.
CSI, now 17-12, plays next on March 28-29 at USU Eastern.
Boise State Considering Second Blue Turf
Could Boise State get another blue turf? It’s a real possibility! Boise State is exploring options to replace the turf at Albertsons Stadium and may even install blue turf at its softball field at Dona Larsen Park. A final decision hasn’t been made yet.
FIS Alpine World Cup Comes to Sun Valley
Excitement is soaring as the FIS Alpine World Cup arrives in Sun Valley!
Friday Night: Opening ceremony at Sun Valley Ice Rink, featuring a bib draw and live performances.
Saturday: Men’s & Women’s Downhill Races + Vendor Village.
The prestigious Harriman Cup will be awarded later in the weekend.
Monday: Skijoring—where skiers are pulled by horses!
Idaho State Softball Falls to Utah State
Idaho State softball fell just short against Utah State, losing 7-5.
ISU scored three early runs, but a grand slam by Utah State’s Kaylee Erickson in the third inning proved too much to overcome.
WEATHER
Forecast Overview
Today: Partly sunny, high 47°F. Breezy, with gusts up to 30 mph.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, low 32°F. Winds shifting south.
Friday: Mostly cloudy, high 50°F. Light winds.
Friday Night: 40% chance of rain after midnight, low 37°F.
Saturday: Rain and snow mix early, then partly sunny, high 51°F. Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 55°F.
Warming Trend: 74°F by Wednesday!
