IDAHO NEWS ROUNDUP
State Budget Reversal
Idaho’s budget outlook has flipped from a $496 million surplus to a $56 million deficit. Lawmakers blame the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which cut several state taxes. Rep. Jeff Ehlers says more cuts may be needed to restore balance.
Gas Prices Ease Before Halloween
As Idaho families gear up for Halloween, gas prices are easing a bit. AAA says the average price for a gallon of regular in Idaho is $3.40 — down five cents from last week and ten from last month.
Bellevue Mayor Apologizes for Election Law Violation
Bellevue Mayor Christina Giordani apologized for unknowingly violating Idaho election law after using city resources in a campaign message. She says she’ll report the error to the Secretary of State.
New Life Flight Base in Blaine County
Blaine County has a new Life Flight Network base serving the Wood River Valley. Officials say it will reduce response times and improve access to life-saving medical care.
Foodbanks Brace for Federal Shutdown Impact
With SNAP benefits suspended during the federal shutdown, the Idaho Foodbank and local pantries across southern Idaho are bracing for a surge in demand starting November 1.
Former Congressman Richard Stallings Dies
Idaho is mourning the loss of former U.S. Representative Richard Stallings, who passed away Sunday at age 85. Stallings was a four-term congressman and longtime educator.
Idaho Enacts ‘Medical Freedom Act’
Idaho has enacted the nation’s first Medical Freedom Act, banning any vaccine or medical procedure requirements by employers, schools, or government agencies. Supporters call it a victory for personal choice, while health officials warn it could weaken efforts to control disease outbreaks.
Poaching Ring Sentences in Twin Falls
Seven men were sentenced to prison Monday for a multi-year poaching ring south of Twin Falls. Judge Benjamin Cluff called it a “criminal enterprise,” giving several, including ringleader Robert Zeko, lifetime hunting bans for illegally taking trophy deer in Unit 54 without tags.
Governor Meets Trump in Washington
Governor Brad Little met with President Donald Trump and top cabinet officials in Washington last week, discussing Idaho LAUNCH, wildfire management, and the impacts of the Schumer Shutdown.
Pipeline Plastics Opens Rupert Plant
Pipeline Plastics will celebrate the grand opening of its new Rupert plant today, a multimillion-dollar facility creating over 50 jobs and producing advanced HDPE pipe for water and energy projects.
SPORTS
District volleyball tournaments wrapped up across the Magic Valley, with several local teams punching their tickets to state. Kimberly captured the 4A District IV title, while Burley, Twin Falls, and Minico will each send athletes to the state cross-country championships this weekend in Pocatello.
In football, regular season finales are set for Friday. Twin Falls hosts Canyon Ridge in the Service Bowl, Minico travels to Pocatello, and Jerome faces Century with playoff implications on the line.
At the college level, the CSI Golden Eagles volleyball team continues its conference dominance, while the men’s soccer team heads into the region tournament after a strong finish in Scenic West play.
Boise State football has officially sold out Saturday’s home game against Fresno State, extending its sellout streak to 13 straight games. Kickoff is 1:30 p.m.
The Kimberly School District and local police raised money for Special Olympics Idaho through a “Bagging for Bucks” event at Ridley’s. Organizers say each fundraiser brings in over $1,500 to help athletes with uniforms, travel, and equipment, with more events planned in November and December.
WEATHER
Sunny skies today with a high near 52 and light east winds. Tonight will be mostly clear and cold, dipping to around 29 degrees. Wednesday warms slightly to the mid-50s under mostly sunny skies, followed by another chilly night near 30.
Thursday remains mostly sunny with highs in the mid-50s, then a gradual warm-up begins Friday as highs reach the upper-50s. The weekend brings plenty of sunshine and milder afternoons, with temperatures climbing into the low-60s by Saturday and Sunday across the Magic Valley.
By early next week, expect more of the same — clear skies, light winds, and highs holding steady around 63 degrees.
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