Idaho Reports
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The longest-running public policy show in the Wes…
The longest-running public policy show in the Wes…
Sat, 28 Jun 2025
Nearly all of us will need help at some point in our lives with daily tasks, like bathing or housekeeping, whether it’s because of aging or an injury. Some of us will be able to rely on family members for help, but not everyone has that luxury. That’s where in-home caregivers come into play, but for years, Idaho has struggled to find enough workers to provide these essential in-home care services.
Mon, 23 Jun 2025
For years, the Idaho Reports team has brought you coverage on how public policy issues in the Gem State affect caregivers and the people who depend on them. This month, we bring you the latest, including recent legislative proposals on state and federal levels.
Thu, 05 Jun 2025
Idaho is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, but what does that mean exactly? Associate producer Logan Finney sits down with economist Liz Bageant to discuss a new report on state population change from the University of Idaho's McClure Center for Public Policy Research. VIEW THE REPORT: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/MCCLURE0010-IAAG-PopChange2025-DIGITAL.pdf
Sat, 31 May 2025
How we care for vulnerable people changed a lot during the pandemic, and with the federal government reexamining how we pay for entitlement programs, more changes are on the way. This week, Idaho Capital Sun reporter Kyle Pfannenstiel discusses the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s early end for the family personal care program, and we sit down with one Idaho family to talk about losing that lifeline.
Thu, 29 May 2025
Summer is back in Idaho, which means scammers posing as door-to-door sales representatives are back in our neighborhoods too. Associate producer Logan Finney sits down this week with Dan Estes, Director of the Consumer Protection Division in the Idaho Attorney General's Office, to talk about the warning signs Idahoans need to watch out for.
Sat, 24 May 2025
Local elections have the lowest voter turnouts, but some of the biggest impacts on your property taxes and the services your community receives. This week, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Drs. Stephanie Witt and Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University’s School of Public Service join the show to discuss Tuesday’s local elections. Plus, progress on the Trump administration’s budget bill.
Thu, 22 May 2025
Voters in Idaho County have officially approved the deconsolidation of the Mountain View School District into two smaller districts, Grangeville and Clearwater Valley. Interim superintendent Alica Holthaus spoke with associate producer Logan Finney about placing the question on the ballot and what comes next for them.
Sat, 17 May 2025
Administrator Laura Denner from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Division of Family and Community Partnerships and director Christine Tiddens of Idaho Voices for Children discuss recent efforts by the state to address issues in the foster care system. Then, former congressman Larry LaRocco shares what he and Richard Stallings heard from Idahoans after eleven town halls across the state.
Thu, 15 May 2025
The cost and availability of housing is a constant concern in Idaho. State lawmakers have assembled an interim committee to study the issue over the summer, with their first meeting this week discussing inventory shortages and the compounding effects of missing affordability.
Sat, 10 May 2025
This week, Idaho made national news as Boise and Bonners Ferry passed resolutions to continue flying flags – pride and organ donor flags in Boise and a Canadian flag in Bonners Ferry – despite a recently passed law that prohibits government entities from flying flags that aren’t state, city, tribal, military, or the US flag. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador discusses the new law, recent litigation, his views on civic discourse, and much more.
Thu, 08 May 2025
President Donald Trump issued an executive order upon taking office in January that suspended the U.S. Refugee Admission Program. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with Holly Beech from the Idaho Office for Refugees which oversees refugee resettlement in Idaho in partnership with local community resettlement agencies. They discuss the effects of the program pause and funding freeze, as well as the case of a resettled Twin Falls man in ICE deportation proceedings with no country that will accept him.
Sat, 03 May 2025
Three decades after a monumental agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy over radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel storage, Idaho this week agreed to a waiver that will allow the federal government to send a cask of spent nuclear fuel to the Idaho National Laboratory. Plus, increased attention on wildfire management and the possible impacts of the Trump administration’s budget proposal.
Thu, 01 May 2025
Gov. Brad Little signed an executive order last week directing the Idaho Department of Lands to collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service in support of the Trump administration's goals of increased timber production and improved forest health. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller to ask what that relationship will look like.
Tue, 29 Apr 2025
Over the course of three fiscal years starting in 2022, the legislature appropriated a total of $160 million to improve Idaho’s state parks, with $95 million coming from state surplus funds, and another $65 million coming from the American Rescue Plan Act. On Thursday, the Idaho Reports team headed to Bruneau Dunes State Park to catch up with Director Susan Buxton and find out how that money was put to use, and to tour the facilities at the dunes.
Sat, 26 Apr 2025
Idaho has 30 state parks, and word is getting out that they’re great places to visit. This week, we head to Bruneau Dunes State Park to catch up with Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton and look into the status of record investments made into Idaho’s state parks over the last few years. Plus, the latest on a lawsuit over abortion ballot initiative language.
Thu, 24 Apr 2025
Bruneau Dunes State Park is home to the tallest single-structure sand dune in North America, but it's also a certified dark sky area with a notable astronomy facility. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with manager Bryce Bealba and ranger Greg Harman to talk about the park.
Sat, 19 Apr 2025
The legislative session may be over, but debates about government spending are still going strong across the state and the country. This week, we look at national political figures like U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and Turning Point USA activist Charlie Kirk making their case to Idahoans. Then, Speaker of the House Mike Moyle joins Logan Finney to discuss lawmakers’ spending and policy priorities.
Thu, 17 Apr 2025
After hosting Sen. Bernie Sanders this week at the largest political rally in state history, what's next for the Idaho Democrats? Party chair Lauren Necochea joins associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the "Fighting Oligarchy" tour and what's next on the national and local front.
Tue, 15 Apr 2025
The "Fighting Oligarchy Tour" on Monday featuring U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-VT, and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY, drew a full venue of roughly 12,500 people to the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa. Speakers included former Idaho state Rep. Nate Roberts, D-Pocatello; family physician Dr. Penny Beach; House Minority Caucus Chair Rep. Todd Achilles, D-Boise; American Federation of Government Employees Local 1273 president Chandler Bursey; and AOC and Sanders.
Sat, 12 Apr 2025
The session is over. Time to talk about what passed, what didn’t, and the lawsuits already underway. This week, professor Geoffrey Heeren with the University of Idaho College of Law discusses questions around an Idaho immigration bill, as well as the revocation of visas for international college students. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University’s School of Public Service discuss the end of the 2025 legislative session, and what might be next.
Thu, 10 Apr 2025
One of the bills signed into law this session will make three changes to urban renewal in Idaho: allowing cities to dissolve an urban renewal agency, allowing extensions for districts with a single industrial user, and allowing fire districts to opt out of inclusion in an urban renewal district. BoiseDev reporter Margaret Carmel joins Logan Finney to break down the changes.
Fri, 04 Apr 2025
Lawmakers are wrapping up work for the year with debates over medical treatments and diversity, equity, and inclusion. This week, producer Ruth Brown interviews Senate Health and Welfare Committee Chair Julie VanOrden about changes to Medicaid spending. Then, Senate Majority Caucus Chair Ben Toews talks about competing bills on medical freedom and what it takes to finally adjourn the session.
Thu, 03 Apr 2025
Reps. Heather Scott and Barbara Ehardt, Unplanned Good executive director Terri Marcroft, and Sens. Julie VanOrden and Tammy Nichols join associate producer Logan Finney to discuss their mission to make sure women with unplanned pregnancies know adoption is an option. The group reviews Idaho's safe haven laws which enable baby boxes where parents can anonymously surrender newborns safely, as well as working to make adoption a more accepted practice.
Sat, 29 Mar 2025
The Legislature missed its target adjournment date, with budgets dominating the debates. So as we head into April, what’s next? This week, Sen. David Lent and Rep. Dustin Manwaring give us an update on medical education arrangements in Idaho. Then, House Assistant Majority Leader Josh Tanner and Senate Assistant Minority Leader James Ruchti discuss budgeting and end-of-session negotiations.
Thu, 27 Mar 2025
Sen. Jim Woodward sits down with associate producer Logan Finney to discuss progress on budgets and funding for public schools, as well as power companies' liability for wildfire damages and a few issues specific to Boundary and Bonner counties in Legislative District 1.
Sat, 22 Mar 2025
Idaho becomes the only state with the firing squad as its primary method of carrying out the death penalty. Producer Ruth Brown sits down with House Judiciary chairman Rep. Bruce Skaug to talk about use of the firing squad and other criminal justice issues. Then, Melissa Davlin interviews East Idaho farmer Brian Murdock about legislative investments in water recharge projects.
Thu, 20 Mar 2025
Sen. Tammy Nichols is working this year on a bill that would allow all Idahoans, even those that live in communities with covenants or HOA rules, to raise chickens on their property. She sat down with associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the bill and its path through the statehouse.
Sat, 15 Mar 2025
This week, we discuss the winding road through budget-setting with the co-chairs of the Joint Finance Appropriations Committee, Rep. Wendy Horman and Sen. Scott Grow. Committee member Sen. Melissa Wintrow outlines her concerns with this year’s budget setting process. Finally, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins us to discuss the state’s proposed changes to its medical education agreement.
Thu, 13 Mar 2025
Legislative strategist Amy Dundon with the ACLU of Idaho joins associate producer Logan Finney this week to survey a wide range of bills under consideration this year touching on the rights of immigrant, transgender, and indigent people.
Sat, 08 Mar 2025
With the tax credit for private education costs now signed into law, and the future of the federal Department of Education up in the air, where does Idaho go next when it comes to public school policy? We talk to policy makers and Idaho's Secretary of State shares his goals for campaign finance legislation. We walk you through what legislators got up this week, including for those on death row.
Thu, 06 Mar 2025
Gov. Brad Little has indicated that the state of Idaho will cooperate fully with federal immigration enforcement efforts under President Donald Trump. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with reporter Rachel Spacek of InvestigateWest to discuss what that state cooperation entails, policy changes that state lawmakers are considering, as well as the influence of the ag industry.
Sat, 01 Mar 2025
This week, Gov. Brad Little signed a high-profile $50 million tax credit for private education costs. Kyle Pfannenstiel of Idaho Capital Sun brings us up to speed on efforts to contain Medicaid costs. Associate producer Logan Finney visits the Donnelly Public Library for an update on the library law. Then, Reps. Brent Crane, Jeff Ehlers, and Todd Achilles join us for a roundtable on the session.
Thu, 27 Feb 2025
Vapes are largely unregulated in Idaho, and Rep. Jerald Raymond is intent on keeping them out of the hands of minors. He's been working for several years to craft an updated taxing scheme and write regulations for vaping products, and he sat down Tuesday with associate producer Logan Finney to review four bills in the hopper.
Sat, 22 Feb 2025
On Presidents' Day, across the state Idahoans protested federal budget cuts by President Donald Trump’s administration. Hundreds showed up at the statehouse in Boise, while others protested in Salmon, Stanley, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls, and McCall. Those protests coincided with news that late last week, thousands of federal workers across the country received word that they had lost their jobs. On Thursday, Melissa Davlin spoke to Clare Vergobbi, one of several employees let go from the Sawtooth National Recreation Area last week, about the layoffs and how they might impact services for visitors.
Sat, 22 Feb 2025
Idaho has no medical school and currently relies on the multi-state WWAMI agreement to educate and place Idaho medical students. This week, Dr. Mary Barinaga and Dr. Joseph Holmstead discuss a legislative proposal that might undo that medical education agreement and why doctors are concerned. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News brings us up to speed on the latest education bills.
Thu, 20 Feb 2025
Senate Bills 1042 and 1043 would reorganize Idaho's landlord-tenant code and require that landlords only charge application fees for a vacant unit to two prospective tenants at a time, as well as that those application fees must be related to the actual costs of a criminal background check and processing the application. Bill sponsor Sen. Ali Rabe spoke with associate producer Logan Finney after the Senate passed the bills off the floor Wednesday.
Sat, 15 Feb 2025
2024 was a rough fire year in Idaho. This week, Melissa Davlin sat down with Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke to ask about Gov. Brad Little’s recommendations to improve the state’s firefighting capabilities moving forward. Last year also saw the culmination of a long-simmering water fight in eastern Idaho. A looming water shortage prompted senior water right holders to threaten to withhold the ability of junior rights holders to use their water, at least until the senior rights holders used their share. Had it gone through, it would have overwhelmingly affected agriculture, and could have meant fields going dry. Ultimately, stakeholders worked out an updated agreement that involved, among other things, prioritizing recharge efforts in the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer.
Sat, 15 Feb 2025
This week, Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke discusses managing fire and water issues alongside the federal government. Then, Rep. Jordan Redman and Rep. Megan Egbert share their views on Medicaid Expansion and its future in Idaho. Two things can be true at once: Medicaid Expansion was a lot more expensive than anticipated, and a lot of Idahoans depend on the program for their healthcare. So what’s next?
Thu, 13 Feb 2025
Each new legislature brings at least a couple of new faces to the capitol building. First-term state Sen. Camille Blaylock of Caldwell sat down with associate producer Logan Finney to reflect on her first six weeks representing Legislative District 11 in the Senate.
Sat, 08 Feb 2025
On Monday, the House passed a bill to reduce state income taxes to the tune of about $253 million, with Republican leaders hailing it as the largest income tax cut in state history. House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel sat down with associate producer Logan Finney to share her thoughts.
Sat, 08 Feb 2025
Christine Pisani of the Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities spoke with producer Ruth Brown about possible federal and state level changes to the Medicaid program that have members of the disabilities community concerned about their coverage.
Sat, 08 Feb 2025
Lawmakers have made a concerted effort to return budget surpluses and provide tax relief to Idahoans. But how much can the Legislature cut before affecting vital services? This week, Christine Pisani of the Idaho Council on Developmental Disabilities discusses concerns about the trajectory of Medicaid. House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel and Majority Leader Jason Monks examine spending priorities.
Thu, 06 Feb 2025
Rep. Chris Mathias is sponsoring school safety legislation that would require local districts to notify parents of serious bullying, intimidation and harassment that involves their children. He sat down with associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the bill and his approach to legislating from the minority party at the capitol.
Sat, 01 Feb 2025
Some lawmakers have made it clear they want to see deep cuts to Medicaid spending. This week, producer Ruth Brown sits down with House Health and Welfare Committee Chairman John Vander Woude to discuss the future of Medicaid Expansion. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio, and Dr. Stephanie Witt of Boise State University’s School of Public Service join the pundits to review the first month of the 2025 session.
Thu, 30 Jan 2025
Many states around the country are exploring ways to create digital driver's licenses that could be accessed through an app on our mobile phones. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen to discuss how Idaho might do so and what she learned from other states.
Sat, 25 Jan 2025
The big education news from this year’s State of the State address was Gov. Brad Little setting aside $50 million of public money for private education. Like the governor, Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield has previously expressed reservations about sending public money to private school. On Friday, she discussed what she’d like to see in a bill.
Sat, 25 Jan 2025
The big education news from this year’s State of the State address was Gov. Brad Little setting aside $50 million of public money for private education. On Wednesday, Rep. Wendy Horman and Sen. Lori Den Hartog introduced a bill that would provide tax refunds for qualifying private education expenses.
Sat, 25 Jan 2025
The big education news from this year’s State of the State address was Gov. Brad Little setting aside $50 million of public money for private education. Not everyone is a fan of the idea. House Assistant Minority Leader Steve Berch discusses his concerns.
Sat, 25 Jan 2025
This week, Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield joins Melissa Davlin to share her views on public dollars going toward private education. Senate Majority Leader Lori Den Hartog and Rep. Wendy Horman discuss their bill to provide tax credits to families to help pay for private education costs, and House Assistant Minority Leader Steve Berch walks through his concerns.
Thu, 23 Jan 2025
Gay and transgender Idahoans have asked lawmakers for years to protect them from discrimination under the state's human rights act. Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow and activist Nikson Mathews reflect on the ten years since the one and only legislative hearing on the "Add the Words" bill in 2015.
Sat, 18 Jan 2025
Wildfire season is getting longer, and home insurance companies are noticing. Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron discusses how wildfires are changing the home insurance industry. Boise State University’s Dr. Matthew May and Dr. Lantz McGinnis-Brown discuss this year’s public policy survey, and Whitney Bryen of Investigate West discusses Idaho’s high female incarceration rate.
Thu, 16 Jan 2025
The annual State of the Judiciary address to the Idaho Legislature discusses the work of the courts and maintaining the state’s court system. Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice Richard Bevan urged lawmakers to increase judicial compensation to help with challenges in recruiting and keeping judges in Idaho’s state courts. "Judges are elected officials, but taking that office requires the new judge to undergo a dramatic transition," Bevan said. "Becoming a judge often means relinquishing existing friendships, adjusting hobbies and revisiting how you spend every moment of your free time — all to ensure impartiality and fulfill constitutional duties."
Sat, 11 Jan 2025
We get an update from producer Ruth Brown on the state of emergency medical services in Idaho. Mario Pile, associate director of student involvement at University of Idaho, shares his thoughts on the State Board of Education’s DEI resolution that led to the closure of the Black and African American Cultural Center. House Education Chairman Doug Pickett discusses proposals to use public funds for private education costs.
Thu, 09 Jan 2025
The 2025 legislative session kicked off this week and the high-priority policy issues are already coming into focus. Legislative leaders and Gov. Brad Little touched on school choice, tax cuts, and Medicaid Expansion.
Tue, 07 Jan 2025
Gov. Brad Little delivers his 2025 State of the State Address with commentary from Idaho Reports guests Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, Dr. Stephanie Witt of Boise State University's School of Public Service, and Lori Wolff of the Division of Financial Management.
Sat, 04 Jan 2025
With the 2025 session just days away, we have a good idea of what’s at the top of the priority list. This week, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Dr. Jaclyn Kettler from Boise State University School of Public Service join the show to discuss what we learned at Friday’s Idaho Press Club Legislative Preview, where Gov. Brad Little and legislative leaders gave a sneak peek of their priorities for the upcoming session.
Thu, 02 Jan 2025
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter passed away Sunday, December 29 at age 100. The Georgian served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981. Carter and his family visited central Idaho in August 1978 on vacation, a three-day raft trip down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River with the family of then-Interior Secretary Cecil Andrus. The Idaho Reports team this week tracked down and got in touch with Judy Clapp, one of the U.S. Forest Service Kayak Patrol who worked the presidential float trip. The Reporters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3ITjXfe0KA More: https://gorafting.com/jimmy-carter-middle-fork-salmon/
Sat, 14 Dec 2024
Melissa Davlin sat down to discuss the Lava Ridge Wind Project with Rep. Lance Clow of Twin Falls and John Robison, Public Lands and Wildlife Director at the Idaho Conservation League. The project will include 241 wind turbines and related infrastructure on federal and state land in Jerome, Lincoln and Minidoka counties. The final plan is only about half of what was originally proposed, but it still faces local opposition.
Sat, 14 Dec 2024
This week, Don Day of BoiseDev catches us up on the unsuccessful merger between Kroger and Albertsons and how it might affect Idahoans. Producer Ruth Brown examines foster care concerns with Cadence Wright, a woman who aged out of Idaho’s foster system. Then, Rep. Lance Clow of Twin Falls and John Robison of the Idaho Conservation League discuss approval of the Lava Ridge Wind Project in Magic Valley.
Thu, 12 Dec 2024
Idaho lawmakers were unable to reach an agreement last year on legal protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF. Associate producer Logan Finney discusses how the procedure works and the legal landscape around fertility with Dr. Emily Jungheim, Chief of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Sat, 07 Dec 2024
The people of Idaho had their say on legislative representation, and now lawmakers have elected their own leadership. We discuss the new legislative assignments and the potential implications on public policy with Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Drs. Stephanie Witt and Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University’s School of Public Service.
Thu, 05 Dec 2024
House Speaker Mike Moyle sat down with associate producer Logan Finney at the annual Associated Taxpayers of Idaho conference to discuss tax policy and his priorities for the new legislative session.
Wed, 27 Nov 2024
Break: Happy Thanksgiving! by Idaho Public Television
Wed, 27 Nov 2024
In this extended conversation, Braden Jensen from the Idaho Farm Bureau and Rick Naerebout from the Idaho Dairymen’s Association discuss challenges facing agriculture producers in Idaho.
Sat, 23 Nov 2024
This week, we explore Idaho’s veterinarian shortage and how it affects Idaho’s ranchers. Braden Jensen from the Idaho Farm Bureau and Rick Naerebout from the Idaho Dairymen’s Association discuss other challenges facing ag producers, and Irene Ruiz of the Idaho Organization of Resource Councils shares how discussions of mass deportations are affecting farmworkers and their families.
Thu, 21 Nov 2024
Robin Fox, a service hydrologist for the National Weather Service in Spokane, lays out how ongoing drought conditions up north have impacted regional agriculture and the winter recreation season. U.S. Drought Monitor for Idaho: https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?ID
Sat, 16 Nov 2024
Idaho has 44 counties, and where you die can have a big impact on the investigation into your death. Audrey Dutton of ProPublica and Casey Petti from the Office of Performance Evaluations discuss Idaho’s coroner system, the lack of oversight, and how that can sometimes adversely affect families. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News brings us up to date on school bonds and levies and more.
Thu, 14 Nov 2024
Newly named director Ryan Langrill of the Office of Performance Evaluations discusses taking over the helm of the legislature's independent watchdog agency, and recent policy changes that have resulted from their work.
Sat, 09 Nov 2024
This week’s election saw big wins for Republicans across the nation, and Idaho was no exception. That includes a huge defeat for Proposition One. Latah County Republican precinct committeewoman Cindy Agidius, Latah County Treasurer BJ Swanson, and University of Idaho professor Markie McBrayer discuss the results, as well as the implications for public policy moving forward.
Wed, 06 Nov 2024
Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane reviews our 2024 general election administration from the Idaho GOP watch party in Meridian.
Mon, 04 Nov 2024
Tuesday’s election isn’t all about the race for the White House. We review a handful of competitive legislative districts with pundits Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Stephanie Witt and Jaclyn Kettler from Boise State University’s School of Public Service. Then, Secretary of State Phil McGrane joins us to discuss early voting, and preparations for an anticipated massive election turnout.
Thu, 31 Oct 2024
Fire Bureau Chief Josh Harvey from the Idaho Department of Lands joins associate producer Logan Finney to discuss this year in wildfire and the long term trends as Idaho's population continues to grow.
Tue, 29 Oct 2024
Melissa Davlin sits down with Luke Mayville, spokesperson for Idahoans for Open Primaries, and Rep. Brent Crane, House State Affairs Committee chairman, to discuss their philosophical stances regarding Proposition One.
Sun, 27 Oct 2024
We dive deep this week into Proposition One – what it would do, what it might cost, and what supporters and opponents are saying.
Sun, 20 Oct 2024
With the 2024 election less than three weeks away, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane explains a constitutional amendment appearing on the ballot. Then, we sit down with Idaho’s Democratic congressional candidates Kaylee Peterson and David Roth. Plus, we visit Twin Falls where the Idaho State Department of Agriculture is working to eradicate invasive quagga mussels from the Snake River.
Thu, 17 Oct 2024
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture returned to Twin Falls this October to continue treating the Snake River after detecting quagga mussels last year. Associate producer Logan Finney speaks with ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt about the eradication campaign, Idaho's multi-agency approach to managing quagga mussels, and impacts on the rest of the river.
Thu, 10 Oct 2024
With less than 30 days to go until the 2024 election, associate producer Logan Finney spoke with Ada County Clerk Trent Tripple about absentee voter turnout, election integrity measures, and an innovative new tool that makes every ballot in the county publicly visible.
Thu, 22 Aug 2024
Idaho legislators have made only minor changes to the state's abortion laws since the U.S. Supreme Court restored their power to regulate abortion. Lead organizer Melanie Folwell with Idahoans United for Women & Children sits down with associate producer Logan Finney to explain the early drafts of a voter initiative that seeks to put a new abortion law on the ballot in 2026, as well as the next steps before they begin collecting signatures.
Thu, 25 Jul 2024
President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he is no longer seeking reelection this November. Now, the Democratic Party has swiftly aligned behind Vice President Kamala Harris as their new nominee. Associate Producer Logan Finney sits down with delegate Rep. Lauren Necochea, chair of the Idaho Democratic Party, to discuss the race and what comes next at the DNC in Chicago.
Sat, 20 Jul 2024
Former president Donald J. Trump has selected U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate in the 2024 election. Idaho delegate Theo Wold joined Melissa Davin on Thursday from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee to discuss what a Vance vice presidency might mean for Idaho and for the Republican Party.
Thu, 18 Jul 2024
Idaho state law now requires "reasonable age verification methods" on adult websites to prevent minors from accessing pornography and other harmful content. Associate producer Logan Finney sits down with Molly Buckley, a legal fellow at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, to learn about these verification tools and the privacy concerns that arise with collecting sensitive personal data online.
Thu, 04 Jul 2024
Break: July 4, 2024 by Idaho Public Television
Thu, 27 Jun 2024
Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with Charlie Hunt of the School of Public Service and Jen Schneider of the College of Innovation and Design at Boise State University to share what happened this year at the Idaho Republican Party Convention. The Big Tent is a public affairs radio show on Radio Boise hosted by School of Public Service faculty at Boise State University. Learn more: https://www.boisestate.edu/sps/big-tent-radio/
Wed, 19 Jun 2024
In observation of the Juneteenth federal holiday, we're re-airing "Race and the Gem State," an Idaho Reports special produced in June 2020 as communities across the nation protested against racism and police brutality following the death of George Floyd. The episode discusses the role of protests and vigils in effecting change, as well as the history of anti-black racism in Idaho.
Fri, 14 Jun 2024
The Idaho Republican Party 2024 Convention is underway in Coeur d'Alene where delegates will consider resolutions, platform updates and rule changes. Associate producer Logan Finney spoke with Mary Souza and Dorothy Moon, the two candidates for party chair, about their motivation to run and their visions for the party.
Thu, 13 Jun 2024
Joining the podcast this week is Alex Adams, the new director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. He has served for the past five years as budget director for Gov. Brad Little, and now he takes the helm at one of the largest – and most expensive – state agencies. Associate producer Logan Finney discusses Adams’s first week on the job, his actions to streamline adoption and foster care placements, and the relationship between the Legislature and IDHW moving forward.
Sat, 08 Jun 2024
The results from Idaho's spring primary are official. The Idaho Board of Canvassers — made up of the Secretary of State, State Controller and State Treasurer — met Wednesday in Idaho Falls to certify the results of the May 21st primary election and review post-election audit findings. Several four-person auditor teams from the Secretary of State's Office spent the week ahead of the state canvass conducting precinct-level audits of specific races in several counties. Idaho Reports observed part of the Valley County audit on Monday at the courthouse in Cascade. View the photos: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2024/06/06/election-results-finalized-no-major-audit-findings/ More from Idaho Capital Sun: https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/06/05/idaho-election-officials-certify-may-primary-election-results/
Sat, 01 Jun 2024
In the final episode of our 52nd season, Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder reflects on 16 years in office after losing his primary election last week. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News gets us up to speed on what’s next in the attempted University of Phoenix acquisition. Plus, we take a look at youth assessment centers and the work they do to prevent minors from ending up in the justice system.
Sat, 25 May 2024
About 24 percent of registered Idaho voters cast a ballot on Tuesday with the majority participating in the Republican primary. Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Winder was one of 15 incumbents to lose their race this election. We discuss the results with Rep. Wendy Horman, winner of one of the most closely watched races. We also examine the implications for future public policy with Sen. Lori Den Hartog, Kelley Packer of the Association of Idaho Cities and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News.
Sat, 18 May 2024
The primary election is just four days away. This week, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane talks about campaign finance enforcement and the lead-up to Tuesday’s primary elections for state legislature and local offices. Then, Ball Ventures Ahlquist CEO Dr. Tommy Ahlquist and Unite America campaigns advisor Amos Rothstein join the pundits table to discuss competitive precinct races and campaign spending.
Thu, 16 May 2024
As demand for rental water is increasing in certain parts of the state, the Idaho Water Resource Board is looking for more surplus water rights to lease as part of its voluntary water exchange. Mary Condon, program manager for the Idaho Water Supply Bank, joins associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the need.
Sat, 11 May 2024
This week, Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke joins Idaho Reports to discuss upcoming legislative primaries and what he’s hearing from voters, and Shannon McGuire of Spark Strategic Solutions shares findings from a new report about community support for mothers in Idaho.
Wed, 08 May 2024
This week is Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week. Producer Ruth Brown spoke with Brenda Willson, executive director of FYIdaho, about the range of mental health resources available for parents and children in Idaho.
Sat, 04 May 2024
Power struggles between the legislative and executive branches are nothing new, but this year, those fights are starting to have real impacts on the state’s operations. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University discuss the results of the session for Gov. Brad Little, the upcoming primary elections, and more.
Thu, 02 May 2024
Idaho legislators have looked for several years at modifying the process by which cities can annex land and expand their boundaries. Associate producer Logan Finney sits down with Kelly Packer, executive director of the Association of Idaho Cities, to discuss the changes signed into law this year and why she thinks they will cause issues down the road.
Sat, 27 Apr 2024
The national spotlight is centered on whether Idaho’s abortion ban conflicts with federal law. Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow shares her view on the oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court. Then, Attorney General Raúl Labrador gives his take on how the hearing went. Plus, Division of Financial Management administrator Alex Adams discusses how budgeting issues at Vocational Rehabilitation could affect clients.
Thu, 25 Apr 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court last week allowed an Idaho state law to take effect that bans gender-affirming care for transgender minors while litigation over the law moves through the courts. Associate producer Logan Finney sits down with Dr. Marvin Alviso, a family medicine doctor in Boise who offers gender-affirming care for adolescents and kids, to discuss what that medical care looks like and how the landscape is changing now that the law is in effect.
Sat, 20 Apr 2024
This week, Dr. Marlene Tromp from Boise State University discusses the future of higher education in Idaho amid discourse about student loan debt and workforce readiness. Plus, McKay Cunningham from the College of Idaho discusses arguments coming up before the U.S. Supreme Court regarding whether the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA, overrules Idaho's state abortion ban.
Thu, 18 Apr 2024
Next week the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on whether the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA, conflicts with Idaho's state law that bans all abortion except to save the life of the mother, or in cases of rape and incest. Constitutional law professor McKay Cunningham from the College of Idaho joined Melissa Davlin on Thursday to preview the arguments the nation expects to hear in court on Wednesday.
Sat, 13 Apr 2024
Lawmakers gaveled out for the year, but Medicaid uncertainty may bring a special session. This week, Logan Finney sits down with Reps. Ned Burns and Brent Crane to discuss the library bill that became law. Kevin Richert gives us a run-down of education highlights. Finally, Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder discusses the end of the session, including whether a Medicaid bill will cause disruption of services to Idahoans with disabilities and bring lawmakers back to the statehouse.
Thu, 11 Apr 2024
Legislative committees in Idaho often meet less than twelve hours after an agenda is posted. They also leave the details about how to accept public testimony up to each individual chairman. Jason Mercier, vice president and director of research at Mountain States Policy Center, joined associate producer Logan Finney to discuss some possible transparency reforms that could help Idahoans access their part-time citizen legislature.
Sat, 06 Apr 2024
Lawmakers set the final state budgets this week – or did they? The showdown over the transportation budget is finally ended, and long-anticipated bills await the governor’s signature or veto. Melissa Davlin sits down with lawmakers investigating a possible budget shortfall at the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Then, Dr. Jaclyn Kettler from Boise State University and reporter James Dawson from Boise State Public Radio discuss the lead up to adjournment.
Thu, 04 Apr 2024
Like many election years, there have been a lot of social issues up for debate in the 2024 legislative session. However, lawmakers seem increasingly ready to pass legislation that they know will end up being decided somewhere down the line in court. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down this week with ACLU of Idaho legislative strategist Amy Dundon to discuss reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ and gender issues, and balancing our conflicting rights as enshrined in the constitution.
Sat, 30 Mar 2024
This week, Dr. Jim Souza, Dr. Megan Kasper, and Idaho Medical Association CEO Susie Keller talk about the effects of Idaho’s abortion ban on physician recruitment and patient care after the Senate and House Health and Welfare Committees canceled a hearing on the topic. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio bring you the latest from the statehouse.
Thu, 28 Mar 2024
The Idaho Transportation Department headquarters used to be situated on a 44-acre property at the edge of downtown Boise. The state has been working for several years to sell the land. Associate producer Logan Finney sits down with BoiseDev senior reporter Margaret Carmel to dig into the history of the site and the possible consequences of lawmakers interrupting the deal. Read more here: https://boisedev.com/project/idaho-transportation-dept-campus-redevelopment/
Sat, 23 Mar 2024
As we’re nearing the end of the legislative session, contentious debates are filling the days. How might these floor votes affect the upcoming legislative primary season? This week, former Gov. Butch Otter, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, and Dr. Stephanie Witt of Boise State University join the pundits to discuss the late-session legislative dealings and upcoming primary races to watch.
Thu, 21 Mar 2024
Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow joins associate producer Logan Finney to discuss a bill she has been working for years to pass, SB 1234, which increases the amount of contraceptives that Idaho women can pick up in a single pharmacy visit to six months. Gov. Brad Little signed the bill and it takes effect on July 1, 2024.
Sat, 16 Mar 2024
Lawmakers have debated for several years over adjustments to how the state should fill judicial vacancies when judges retire. A bill introduced in the House this week on judicial retirements is also tied to pay raises for judges. Producer Ruth Brown spoke with Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan on Thursday about his concerns with the bill and its potential impact on the court system.
Fri, 15 Mar 2024
It’s no secret that Idaho Republicans have been fighting amongst themselves for years. This week, Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen discusses her recent censure from her legislative district central committee, and Idaho Republican Party chairwoman Dorothy Moon gives her take on the presidential caucus, recent election bills and divisions within the party. Plus, Ruth Brown talks to Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice Richard Bevan on how a judicial salary bill could affect court administration.
Thu, 14 Mar 2024
Senate Assistant Majority Leader Abby Lee joins producer Ruth Brown to discuss issues with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s foster care system, efforts over her legislative career to address them, and a pair of bills she's co-sponsoring this year to limit temporary placement of foster kids and to create an independent ombudsman office. Read more here: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2024/02/28/two-bills-introduced-on-potential-foster-care-system-changes/ https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2024/02/23/oversight-committee-raises-child-welfare-concerns/
Sat, 09 Mar 2024
The Idaho Republican Party Presidential Caucus drew just 7 percent of registered Republicans to the polls last Saturday, but didn’t draw any presidential candidates to Idaho to campaign. Where does the party go next? Reps. Dustin Manwaring and Lauren Necochea join Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University to discuss the presidential caucus and what lawmakers have left to do before adjournment.
Sat, 09 Mar 2024
Idaho’s judicial branch this year is requesting general funds for its IT staff and services, and to complete the court’s transition to a cloud-based technology system. For the last ten years, the state has largely funded court technology by imposing fees on the people who use the justice system. Associate producer Logan Finney spoke to Lisa Foster of the Fines and Fees Justice Center this week about the problems with the current fee-based set-up.
Wed, 06 Mar 2024
Former President Donald Trump easily won the Idaho Republican presidential caucus over the weekend and will receive all of Idaho’s 32 delegates to the Republican presidential nominating convention. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down Monday with political scientist Josh Putnam to go over the results, what they mean for the rest of the contest as we head into Super Tuesday, and how much influence Idaho has over the presidential nomination process.
Sun, 03 Mar 2024
The revenue that the Idaho Supreme Court generates from court fees has been in decline over the past several years. But at the same time, the costs to run its technology systems have increased. Sara Omundson, administrative director of courts, sat down with Logan Finney on Thursday to discuss the cybersecurity threats facing the state court system, and what they’re doing to address them.
Sat, 02 Mar 2024
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Correction called off the execution of Thomas Creech, after nearly an hour of attempting to establish an IV line to administer the necessary lethal injection chemicals. Lead producer and host Melissa Davlin spoke the next day with media witnesses Scott McIntosh of the Idaho Statesman and Roland Beres of KIVI Channel 6 about what they saw, and what the state might do next.
Sat, 02 Mar 2024
The Idaho Department of Correction halted the execution of Thomas Creech after failing to set an IV line. Witnesses Scott McIntosh of the Idaho Statesman and Roland Beres of KIVI share what they saw. Administrative director of courts Sara Omundson discusses cybersecurity funding. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News brings us the latest reactions to the proposed University of Phoenix acquisition.
Fri, 01 Mar 2024
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Correction called off the execution of Thomas Creech, after nearly an hour of attempting to establish an IV line to administer the necessary lethal injection chemicals. According to IDOC director Josh Tewalt, the medical team tried to set up an IV line in eight different locations on Creech’s body, including his arms, hands, and legs, before calling off the procedure.
Thu, 29 Feb 2024
Associate producer Logan Finney sat down this week with Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield to discuss the status of the education budget, as well as policy bills on libraries and bullying.
Sat, 24 Feb 2024
This week, McKay Cunningham from the College of Idaho discusses potential issues with an effort to add a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, Dr. Stephanie Witt of Boise State University, and former Attorney General and Supreme Court Justice Jim Jones join the pundits to review the week that was, and to remember our late friend Dr. Jim Weatherby.
Thu, 22 Feb 2024
Beginning last legislative session, Idaho began a massive undertaking to shift from its unconstitutional county-based public defense system to a state-based system. Idaho Association of Counties executive director Seth Grigg sat down with Ruth Brown this week to discuss the final details being ironed out as the October 1 changeover date approaches, including funding for child protective service cases and employee benefits for the public defenders who will soon start working for the state.
Sat, 17 Feb 2024
After last week’s House leadership shake-up, Republicans have chosen a new majority leader. How much might that impact pending legislation that hits the floor? This week, Rep. Jason Monks discusses his role as the newly elected House Majority Leader, as well as complex school facility legislation he is co-sponsoring. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University give us their insights on the week, including the threat of a lawsuit from the Legislature over the proposed University of Phoenix purchase.
Thu, 15 Feb 2024
House Bill 494 would rewrite Idaho's human trafficking laws to make them more victim-centered and hopefully give law enforcement more tools to investigate and prosecute trafficking cases that they find in relation to other crimes. Bill sponsor Rep. Jaron Crane, R-Nampa, joined producer Ruth Brown this week to discuss the legislation and who is supporting it.
Fri, 09 Feb 2024
This week, Rep. Megan Blanksma joins us to discuss a historic vote to remove her as House Majority Leader, and what she thinks led up to it. Then, House Appropriations chair Rep. Wendy Horman gives some insights into the behind-the-scenes budget fights that became public over the last few days, and Minority Leader Ilana Rubel shares her thoughts on how the dysfunction might affect the rest of the session.
Sat, 03 Feb 2024
The legislature’s budget committee made some big changes to how they appropriate your taxpayer dollars, but on Friday, they reconsidered some budgets that had already passed. Producer Ruth Brown discusses an update on a pending execution and new death penalty legislation, and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News gives us an update on the open meeting lawsuit against the State Board of Education.
Thu, 01 Feb 2024
Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane joins associate producer Logan Finney this week to discuss legal action headed before the U.S. Supreme Court over whether former President Donald Trump is eligible to appear on the ballot in 2024. They also discuss McGrane's priorities for the new legislative session, and a letter he and Attorney General Raúl Labrador issued to statehouse lobbyists regarding bribes and threats to elected officials.
Fri, 26 Jan 2024
It's the third week of the session, and lawmakers are already addressing big concerns like fentanyl trafficking and guns on campus. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News gives us an update on the open meeting lawsuit over the University of Idaho’s acquisition of the University of Phoenix. Then, Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon discusses changes to the budget process and the session so far.
Thu, 25 Jan 2024
Idaho lawmakers are once again pushing to add fentanyl to the state's list of illegal substances that carry mandatory minimum prison sentences for drug trafficking. The same committee that blocked the bill last year advanced the bill to the House after three hours of testimony on Friday and another two hours of deliberation on Tuesday. Associate producer Logan Finney sat down with Sen. Todd Lakey, R-Nampa, to dive into the details of the bill and predict its path forward this legislative session.
Sat, 20 Jan 2024
No matter where you are in Idaho, you likely got hit by winter storms this week. But how did that affect the snowpack? Water Supply Committee chair David Hoekema discusses the statewide outlook. Then, Dr. Matthew May and Lantz McGinnis-Brown from Boise State University review results of this year’s public policy survey, and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News reviews the week at the statehouse.
Thu, 18 Jan 2024
Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan addressed lawmakers this week, speaking to the judicial branch's relationship to the legislature and the rule of law. He also highlighted the court system's budget needs for the year, including improved technology support and judicial salaries. Bevan's full comments are available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rwlN6lLl8c
Sun, 14 Jan 2024
While touting his own proposals this week, Gov. Little had some harsh words for the federal government and its $34 trillion dollar debt. Concerns about spending in Washington aren’t new. Former US Sen. Larry Craig has been promoting a balanced budget amendment since the Reagan administration. And on Thursday, Mick Mulvaney came to Boise to meet with legislative leaders to pitch the amendment. Mulvaney served as both Director of the Office of Management and Budget and chief of staff under President Donald Trump. Both joined Melissa Davlin to discuss the proposal.
Sat, 13 Jan 2024
There’s already plenty to talk about – including a push for a federal balanced budget. This week, we get reactions to Gov. Brad Little’s state of the state and proposed budget. Mick Mulvaney, former chief of staff to President Donald Trump, and former US Sen. Larry Craig discuss a proposed federal constitutional amendment that would require Congress to pass a balanced budget. Then, Dr. Jaclyn Kettler from Boise State University's School of Public Service gives her take on the first few days of the legislative session.
Tue, 09 Jan 2024
Kevin Richert from Idaho Education News, political science professor Stephanie Witt from Boise State University, and administrator Alex Adams from the Division of Financial Management provide commentary after Gov. Brad Little's 2024 State of the State address.
Tue, 09 Jan 2024
Gov. Brad Little delivered his 2024 State of the State Address on Jan. 8, the first day of the legislative session. The speech focused on budget priorities for the upcoming session, including fully funding Idaho Launch and an ambitious proposal to help fund local school buildings.
Sat, 06 Jan 2024
Associate producer Logan Finney examines the implications of not fully funding jail facilities. Caribou County Sheriff Adam Mabey, Fremont County Sheriff Len Humphries, Payette County Sheriff Andy Creech, and jail inspector Ben Wolfinger from the Idaho Sheriffs Association discuss the state of Idaho's aging county jails, how being a recreation destination plays into the issue, and a policy pitch that would help counties to pay for jail construction.
Sat, 06 Jan 2024
The session is just around the corner, and the press got a sneak peek at the priorities. This week, Gov. Brad Little and lawmakers give us a preview of the upcoming legislative session. Associate producer Logan Finney discusses issues with jail facilities across the state with members of the Idaho Sheriffs Association. Finally, House Majority Leader Rep. Megan Blanksma joins us to discuss proposals on maternal health and Idaho Launch.
Thu, 04 Jan 2024
Association of Idaho Cities executive director Kelley Packer joins Ruth Brown to discuss the upcoming 2024 legislative session, as well as some of the bills in the works relating to property tax budgets, city annexation, and water rights.
Wed, 03 Jan 2024
Three Republican women - former state Rep. Kelley Packer, former state Rep. and Senate candidate Laurie Lickley, and former Senate candidate Tara Malek - in December founded the Idaho Contraceptive Education Network. The group's goal is to educate Idahoans about contraception and how it is different from abortion.
Sat, 16 Dec 2023
In the lead-up to the 2022 election, Raul Labrador campaigned on the promise that he would be more aggressive in defending state sovereignty. After nearly a year in office, we checked in with him about his challenges to state agencies, ongoing abortion litigation, and his approach to his job as Idaho’s chief legal officer.
Fri, 15 Dec 2023
It’s been nearly a year since Idaho’s new constitutional officers were sworn in, including Attorney General Raúl Labrador, the state’s first new attorney general in more than two decades. We visited Labrador at his capitol office this week to discuss his first year as Idaho's chief legal officer, his outlook on the job, and the high-profile cases his office is currently litigating.
Thu, 14 Dec 2023
Idaho is unique in many ways, but it unfortunately stands out in one policy area. It's the only state that still uses its prison system to house certain mental health patients — those whose condition a court has deemed "dangerously mentally ill" — even though they have committed no crime. ProPublica reporter Audrey Dutton joins Logan Finney this week to discuss this particular prison unit, the civil rights concerns that accompany it, and how debates over the practice stretch back decades at the Idaho statehouse. Read Audrey's reporting: https://www.propublica.org/article/idaho-keeps-some-psychiatric-patients-in-prison-ignoring-decades-of-warnings-about-the-practice
Sat, 09 Dec 2023
A new report outlines a rise in infant and maternal mortality. What can be done to help? This week, Ivy Smith from Idaho Voices For Children discusses Idaho’s rising infant and maternal mortality rates, as well as policy recommendations to address that trend. Then, Jason Mercier of the Mountain States Policy Center explains his organization’s proposals to improve government transparency ahead of the next legislative session.
Thu, 07 Dec 2023
The Snake River has been in the news a lot recently, but the recent detection of quagga mussels is not the only ecological issue facing the mighty river. Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey released a study this week that takes a look at how the habitat conditions behind dams affect the level of mercury found in smallmouth bass. Research ecologist Colin Eagles-Smith joins Logan Finney this week to talk through the findings. Read more here: https://www.usgs.gov/news/state-news-release/smallmouth-bass-mercury-levels-linked-habitat-types-along-snake-river/
Sat, 02 Dec 2023
The Greater Idaho movement would shift the Idaho-Oregon border to the west and merge conservative eastern Oregon with the Gem State. It’s a long shot — but what’s at the root of the proposal? This week, we explore the origins of the rural-urban divide. Then, Stephanie Witt and Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University discuss how growing American political polarization fuels the conversation.
Thu, 30 Nov 2023
The next legislative session in January 2024 is just over a month away – and policymakers are already hard at work, pitching bills and taking stock of this year's historic property tax relief package. This week, associate producer Logan Finney brings you to the annual Associated Taxpayers of Idaho conference in downtown Boise.
Thu, 23 Nov 2023
Break: Happy Thanksgiving! by Idaho Public Television
Sat, 18 Nov 2023
There are two major factors that determine the cost of living: How much things cost, and how much people earn. This week, associate producer Logan Finney explores how the state’s Workforce Housing Fund contributes to solving the affordable housing puzzle. Then, president Gordon Jones from the College of Western Idaho discusses a new four-year degree proposal at the community college.
Thu, 16 Nov 2023
Communities all over the state are grappling with housing affordability, but the sheer variety of programs that are available to support it can be overwhelming. Marketing and communications director Jason Lantz from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association sits down with associate producer Logan Finney this week to discuss how IHFA supports affordable homes for Idahoans in all walks of life.
Sat, 11 Nov 2023
Tens of thousands of Idahoans who are elderly or have disabilities rely on direct care workers to live independently, but there’s a shortage of them. We take a look at the impact of that shortage, and what the state could do to help. We also follow lawmakers on a tour of the South Idaho Correctional Institution. Then, Kevin Richert from Idaho Education News discusses Tuesday’s election results.
Thu, 09 Nov 2023
Ada County voters narrowly missed the 2/3 majority needed to pass a jail expansion bond in Tuesday's local election - but it's a familiar story for many counties across the state. Associate producer Logan Finney talks with jail administrator Capt. Doug Hughes from the Twin Falls Sheriff's Department about what a failed jail expansion bond means for an Idaho community.
Sat, 04 Nov 2023
U.S. Attorney for Idaho Josh Hurwit and Idaho State Police Col. Kedrick Wills discuss the state and federal governments’ efforts to stop fentanyl trafficking and overdose deaths in Idaho. Plus, U.S. Sen. Jim Risch provides an update on efforts to stop the Lava Ridge Wind Project, and House Speaker Mike Moyle once again expresses frustration about the state’s new business management platform.
Thu, 02 Nov 2023
The proposed Lava Ridge Wind Project in remote Jerome County would add hundreds of wind turbines to public land as part of President Biden's clean energy initiative. But the proposal faces fierce opposition from Magic Valley residents, county commissioners and the Idaho Legislature, with concerns ranging from land conservation to preserving the integrity and solemnity of the Minidoka Internment Camp National Historical Site. Idaho's U.S. Sen. Jim Risch joined Melissa Davlin to discuss those concerns and his efforts to stop the project.
Sat, 28 Oct 2023
This week, in the first episode of Season 52, producer Ruth Brown travels to the Nez Perce and Coeur d’Alene reservations to explore the high rate of missing and murdered indigenous people. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discusses upcoming school elections and the latest in the Attorney General’s lawsuit against the State Board of Education concerning the University of Idaho’s acquisition of University of Phoenix.
Thu, 26 Oct 2023
Division of Financial Management administrator Alex Adams joins Logan Finney to discuss the latest round of state revenue numbers, and what they tell us about the current economic picture for Idaho.
Thu, 19 Oct 2023
Rising land prices in the growing regions of Idaho don't just affect the cost of housing — they also impact how much it costs for the Idaho Transportation Department to widen a highway. Senior reporter Margaret Carmel from BoiseDev joins Logan Finney to discuss her analysis of highway right-of-way prices and how it's affected local project planning at ITD. Read more: https://boisedev.com/news/2023/10/12/itd-land-prices/
Thu, 12 Oct 2023
We still have an entire 2024 legislative session before the next Republican primary — but that hasn't stopped a pair of organizations from announcing their support for certain legislative candidates all across the state. Kevin Richert from Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney this week to break down the competing slates of candidates, as well as the significance of their endorsements and fundraising this far in advance of the next spring primary.
Thu, 05 Oct 2023
Applications opened this week for Idaho Launch, the new state grant program for Idaho high school graduates to pursue training for certain in-demand careers. Workforce Development Council executive director Wendi Secrist joins Logan Finney to talk about the opportunity available to students, what constitutes an "in-demand" career, and just how much work it took since the end of the legislative session to get this program up and running. Visit http://nextsteps.idaho.gov for more information!
Thu, 28 Sep 2023
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced last week the presence of invasive quagga mussel larvae in the Snake River near Twin Falls. Director Chanel Tewalt joins Logan Finney to discuss what this means for Idaho and the state's response plan. Find more information at http://www.idaho.gov/quagga
Thu, 21 Sep 2023
Boise State University professor Dr. Laura King joins Ruth Brown to discuss a recent research study about the victimization of people with disabilities in Idaho. King and her team surveyed service providers and offered recommendations to improve accessibility and service provision for people with disabilities and for victims of crime, abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Thu, 14 Sep 2023
Coeur d'Alene Press reporter Kaye Thornbrugh joins producer Ruth Brown this week to discuss the ongoing dispute between the board of trustees and the president at North Idaho College, and where the situation sits against the backdrop of NIC's current accreditation review.
Thu, 07 Sep 2023
The Idaho Department of Labor had a lot of unanswered questions about labor trends and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic - so they surveyed businesses across the state to ask them. Department of Labor regional economist Matthew Paskash joined Logan Finney this week to talk about the first annual Business Climate Survey and its findings.
Thu, 31 Aug 2023
Patrons of the West Bonner County School District turned out en masse this Tuesday and voted to recall two members of the school board after months of tension in the district. Kevin Richert from Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney to break down the results and what they mean.
Thu, 24 Aug 2023
America's mutton consumption has increased over the past decade, and the sheep that provide that meat also provide wool and graze the rangelands of the West. However, since the U.S. joined the North American Free Trade Agreement in the 90s, domestic lamb and mutton production has declined 60% while imports have increased over 500% in the same time period. Idaho sheep ranchers Frank Shirts and Henry Etcheverry spoke with members of the media about the issue earlier this week in the Boise Foothills, calling attention to the importance of the industry and the economic threats they currently face.
Wed, 16 Aug 2023
This week, Idaho Capital Sun reporter Kyle Pfannenstiel talks with producer Ruth Brown about a new residential facility that the Idaho Youth Ranch plans to open. It's the first in-state care residential facility for children with psychiatric needs. You’ll also hear from an interview with Idaho Youth Ranch CEO Scott Curtis from 2022, talking about plans for the residential facility.
Thu, 10 Aug 2023
This week, we're bringing you a snapshot of the water supply in Idaho from the Governor's Water Summit, where water users and policy makers gathered at the state capitol to discuss water issues. Idaho Department of Water Resources technical hydrologist David Hoekema gave an overview of surface water and drought conditions, and hydrologist Dennis Owsley gave a snapshot of the groundwater in the different aquifers across the state.
Thu, 03 Aug 2023
The growing needs of Idaho’s criminal justice system have concerned policymakers and legislators in recent years. But criminal justice is about more than just bed space. Lauren Bailey and Mackenzie Moss, analysists with the Idaho Legislature’s Office of Performance Evaluations, join Logan Finney to discuss the process of returning to the community when one exits the state’s criminal justice system.
Thu, 27 Jul 2023
The West Bonner School District has been rocked by controversy and contentious board meetings after trustees named a new superintendent last month. Since the hiring of Branden Durst, a former Democratic state lawmaker and Republican candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction, some patrons have even gotten a recall election on the ballot for two trustees. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney this week to break down the story, as well as what it reveals about finding qualified staff to work in rural school districts.
Thu, 20 Jul 2023
State and provincial leaders from the northwestern U.S. and Canada gathered in Boise this week for the annual summit of PNWER, the Pacific Northwest Economic Region. Bruce Agnew, director of the Regional Infrastructure Accelerator at the organization, sat down with Logan Finney this week at the conference to talk about the future of transportation infrastructure in the northwest region.
Thu, 13 Jul 2023
Earlier this week, ACLU of Idaho released a report detailing findings after an investigation into allegations of racism against Latino students in some of Idaho’s school districts. On this week’s Idaho Reports podcast, ACLU of Idaho’s Legal Fellow Erica Rodarte Costa joins to discuss the report’s findings and recommendations. View the report: https://www.acluidaho.org/en/campaigns/education-equity-latinx-students-idaho Idaho Reports reached out to the Nampa and Caldwell school districts for a response, which is included here on our website: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2023/07/13/idaho-reports-podcast-erica-rodarte-costa-aclu-discusses-allegations-of-racism-in-school-dress-codes/
Wed, 05 Jul 2023
Break: Happy July 4th! by Idaho Public Television
Thu, 29 Jun 2023
Our state is a destination for summer recreation and holiday celebrations. Ahead of July 4th weekend, Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris issued an advisory reminding out-of-state visitors that they can (and will) face consequences for possession of controlled substances. "This isn't Spokane," Norris told Idaho Reports. "You're not going to get a pamphlet on where to get help. You're likely to go to jail." However, the sheriff's public service announcement also included a note for Idaho lawmakers: a call to give counties local option taxing authority to fund public safety operations rather than relying solely on property taxes.
Thu, 22 Jun 2023
Daniel Strawn, professor of environmental soil chemistry from the University of Idaho, joins Logan Finney to discuss his research in using biochar to capture nutrients from wastewater and distribute them back into the soil. They also discuss a paper he recently published in collaboration with the Canadian Light Source and the University of Saskatchewan that showed how the biochar and particular minerals interacted, allowing them to refine the process.
Fri, 16 Jun 2023
An Idaho man was arrested last Friday after early morning reports of gunshots fired at power substations at the the Hells Canyon and Brownlee dams. We examine Idaho's energy grid resilience with Will Hart from the Idaho Consumer Owned Utilities Association and Richard Stover from the Governor's Office of Energy and Mineral Resources. Read more about the incident from the Idaho Statesman: https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/crime/article276338786.html
Thu, 08 Jun 2023
It's the first full week of June, which means hot summer weather is just around the corner. Idaho Water Users Association executive director Paul Arrington talks with Logan Finney about staying safe when looking for a place to swim this summer by staying away from irrigation canals.
Fri, 02 Jun 2023
The state of Idaho is poised to spend roughly $2 million annually on opioid abatement and mitigation following a nationwide settlement with pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, in addition to payouts to local governments. The Idaho Behavioral Health Council this month is asking the public to submit comments about how the money could best be used to support opioid mitigation in their community, which will inform how the funds will be spent next legislative session.
Fri, 26 May 2023
This week, Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue joins us to discuss challenges sheriffs are facing in recruiting and retaining deputies, and how that affects public safety. Then, Sen. Ben Adams, Rep. Julie Yamamoto, and House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel join Idaho Reports to discuss what lawmakers are working on in coming months.
Thu, 25 May 2023
Idaho Business for Education president Rod Gramer sat down with associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the state of education in Idaho, including legislative investments like the expanded Idaho Launch program and outstanding needs like stable funding for school facilities. Age of Agility: The Governor's Summit on the Future of Work (2023): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvDo4LDXnoaCTvx5aZTif04-M0t7rDf3D
Sat, 20 May 2023
This week, Shane Leach from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare gives an update on how many people the state has removed from Medicaid rolls since the COVID-19 public health emergency. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discusses a surprise move by the University of Idaho to acquire the University of Phoenix, plus the results of this week’s school bond and levy elections.
Thu, 18 May 2023
The debate over whether libraries or parents should be responsible for what children read has not been limited to the statehouse. It's made it into local library trustee elections, with many races on the ballot place this Tuesday across Idaho. Mike Weland, publisher of 9B News, joined Logan Finney this week to break down the library district election in Boundary County and what it can tell us about the debate over library materials across the rest of the state. WATCH: Idaho Reports | Libraries and Liability | April 7, 2023 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDKappqWQQM Posts from 9B News - - - - An awful, liberal library ... caught again: https://9b.news/news/2023/04/28library.htm Meet three of four library board candidates: https://9b.news/news/2023/04/03library.htm Unofficial final results in, incumbents stay: https://9b.news/news/2023/05/16election2.htm
Sat, 13 May 2023
This week, Sen. Lori Den Hartog and Rep. Wendy Horman discuss historic state investments in education, and some possible changes they may propose next legislative session to the complex public school funding formula. Then, Sen. Rick Just discusses what lawmakers did this year to address the maintenance backlog at Idaho’s state parks.
Wed, 10 May 2023
Reclaim Idaho has gathered a new coalition behind a ballot initiative that would institute open primary elections and instant runoff general elections in Idaho. Markie McBrayer from the University of Idaho Department of Politics and Philosophy joins Logan Finney this week to explain instant runoff elections, or ranked choice voting, and what political scientists know so far about how the process works. Read transcript here: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2023/05/10/podcast-episode-rewriting-election-rules/ More about RCV from University of Illinois Springfield: https://blogs.uofi.uis.edu/view/8598/1650413886
Sat, 06 May 2023
Last week, Idaho Reports was invited to interview Gov. Brad Little at his home and ranch in Emmett. In part two of our two-part interview, Gov. Little shared his thoughts on education initiatives the legislature passed this year, the state's economic prospects, and whether he plans to run for a third term as governor.
Sat, 06 May 2023
Last week, Idaho Reports was invited to interview Gov. Brad Little at his home and ranch in Emmett. In part one of our two-part interview, Gov. Little shared his thoughts on Medicaid, ongoing discussions about Idaho’s abortion ban, the vetoed library bill, and the property tax compromise.
Sat, 06 May 2023
This week, we sit down with Gov. Brad Little for the second part of a two-part interview discussing his views on the 2023 legislative session, as well as what the coming years may bring. Plus, a voter initiative has been filed that may change the way Idaho holds elections.
Thu, 04 May 2023
St. Luke's Health System chief physician executive Dr. Jim Souza and maternal fetal medicine physician Dr. Lauren Miller join Ruth Brown to talk about issues around recent abortion-related legislation and legal opinions the state issued this year.
Sat, 29 Apr 2023
We’ve heard the lawmakers’ takes on this year’s legislative session. Now it’s the governor’s turn to weigh in. Idaho Reports was invited to interview Gov. Brad Little at his home and ranch in Emmett and talk about the legislative session. "I always reflect back on my State of the State and what we talked about," Little told host Melissa Davlin. "My education initiative, my Launch initiative, our infrastructure initiative - all of those things were done, most of them with very little deviation from what I proposed, so I was pleased."
Thu, 27 Apr 2023
Katie Sanders, the managing editor of PolitiFact, was in Idaho earlier this year as the keynote speaker for the University of Idaho's annual Oppenheimer Ethics Symposium. She joined Idaho Reports host Melissa Davlin at KUID in Moscow for a conversation on misinformation, conspiracy theories, and editorial judgement in media.
Sat, 22 Apr 2023
Snow and rain has relieved recent drought, but likely won’t ease the upcoming fire season. This week, University of Idaho professor Garth Taylor joins Melissa Davlin to discuss this year in Idaho agriculture. Then, Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke talks about water and education issues, as well as his new role in this year’s legislative session. Plus, federal officials visit Idaho to announce investments in conservation partnerships and preview the upcoming fire season.
Fri, 21 Apr 2023
This past fiscal year, just like for everyone else, expenses rose for Idaho agriculture, up 20 percent. But good news: the industry saw even higher cash receipts and total revenues, with cash receipts up 28 percent, a record 11 billion dollars. University of Idaho associate professor Garth Taylor from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences joined Melissa Davlin in March at KUID in Moscow to discuss water trends, the effects of the war in Ukraine, and how this year treated Idaho agriculture.
Fri, 21 Apr 2023
U.S. Fire Administration head Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell and principals of America’s national fire service organizations traveled to the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, ID as part of a western tour acknowledging America’s fire problem. During the visit, Idaho Reports producer Ruth Brown sat down with Moore-Merrell to discuss her agency's work and what can be done to reduce fire risk and implement resilient communities. "We can't just look at last year, we have to look at the last five years. In the last five years, we have burned 68% more acreage than we did in the last three decades," Moore-Merrell told Idaho Reports. "That's the important part. Look longer term, understand this beautiful precipitation today will not get us out of the woods."
Thu, 20 Apr 2023
National news has focused recently on federal court action regarding mifeprisone, a medication that can be used to facilitate abortion in early pregnancies. Reproductive rights reporter Kelcie Moseley-Morris from States Newsroom joins Logan Finney this week to lay out the arguments in the cases, as well as how Idaho and our neighboring states are involved. Articles referenced in this episode: "In Washington, FDA lawsuit is part of larger strategy to preserve abortion access" by Kelcie Moseley-Morris https://idahocapitalsun.com/2023/04/17/in-washington-fda-lawsuit-is-part-of-larger-strategy-to-preserve-abortion-access/ "How to make a state abortion ban go national" by Sophia Resnick https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/how-make-state-abortion-ban-go-national "DOJ warns Supreme Court of ‘significant chaos’ in health care if abortion pill rulings stand" by Jennifer Shutt https://idahocapitalsun.com/2023/04/14/doj-warns-supreme-court-of-significant-chaos-in-health-care-if-abortion-pill-rulings-stand/ "Planned Parenthood Northwest sues Idaho AG over abortion-related legal opinion" by Kelcie Moseley-Morris https://idahocapitalsun.com/2023/04/05/planned-parenthood-northwest-sues-idaho-ag-over-abortion-related-legal-opinion/
Sat, 15 Apr 2023
In March, lead producer Melissa Davlin sat down with Bob Collier from the University of Idaho’s Department of Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences to discuss the state of veterinary medicine in Idaho, how our needs reflect the national trends, and what can be done to address the issue.
Sat, 15 Apr 2023
Election security and voter integrity have been at the top of lawmakers’ minds for several years now, and this session was no different. Secretary of State Phil McGrane joins Logan Finney to review which voting changes passed and which failed, and what voters need to know the next time they head to the polls. Plus, Bob Collier from the University of Idaho joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the state of veterinary medicine in Idaho.
Sat, 08 Apr 2023
Melissa Davlin sat down in late March with the University of Idaho’s Markie McBrayer at KUID in Moscow to discuss the history of morality politics, as well as laws that use civilians to enforce policy in civil court.
Sat, 08 Apr 2023
The legislature has adjourned for the year, but not before failing to override a veto on a controversial bill concerning content in libraries. But that isn’t the end of the conversation around materials deemed “harmful to minors” or obscene. This week, we take a look at the months-long debates over collection policies in Idaho libraries, and what more, if anything, those libraries should do to prevent minors from checking out potentially obscene materials. Markie McBrayer from University of Idaho’s Department of Politics and Philosophy joins us to discuss the history of morality politics and civil enforcement mechanisms in law. Finally, Katie Ball from the University of Idaho’s College of Law, Rep. Brent Crane, and Meridian Library board trustee Jeff Kohler discuss civil enforcement, as well as what we may see in coming months in the library debate.
Thu, 06 Apr 2023
The state of Idaho has become a thriving place for surrogacy, largely due to the fact that it did not have any laws governing the practice and allowed the industry to operate without any regulation. Last week, Gov. Brad Little signed a bill by Rep. Brooke Green, D-Boise, Rep. Dori Healey, R-Boise, and Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, which sets out legal processes and recognition of parental rights under gestational carrier agreements for the first time in state law. Green and Nicole Williamson from surrogacy agency A Host of Possibilities joined Logan Finney to talk about the new law and its practical impacts for intending parents and gestational carriers moving forward. Learn more about surrogacy and the PBS documentary "Made in Boise" in this episode of Dialogue, also featuring Williamson: https://video.idahoptv.org/video/made-in-boise-ynhhag/ Read more coverage of HB 264 from the Idaho Capital Sun: https://idahocapitalsun.com/2023/03/02/idaho-is-a-surrogacy-hub-a-new-bill-would-set-legal-best-practices-for-the-first-time/
Sat, 01 Apr 2023
This week, lawmakers wrapped up their remaining work at the capitol and recessed to allow for any remaining vetoes. Dr. Jaclyn Kettler and Dr. Stephanie Witt from Boise State University’s School of Public Service and Kevin Richert from Idaho Education News join the pundits to discuss the politics of the week and the closing days of the legislative session.
Thu, 30 Mar 2023
Gov. Brad Little issued a surprising veto on Monday, rejecting the property tax bill that lawmakers have been working on all session. Specifically, Little pointed to how the bill would have changed the way Idaho handles its sales tax revenue, potentially jeopardizing millions of dollars in transportation bonding. It's a highly technical concern, so Margaret Carmel of BoiseDev joins Logan Finney to spell out how transportation funding got in the way of property tax relief.
Fri, 24 Mar 2023
House party caucus chairmen Rep. Ned Burns and Rep. Dustin Manwaring talk about their new leadership roles and the end-of-session debates. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University’s School of Public Service discuss education budgets and debates, as well as a legal fight between the attorney general and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
Sat, 18 Mar 2023
This week, the House passed a massive property tax proposal that sets aside more than $300 million for two projects: helping school districts pay down their existing bonds and levies, and providing tax credits for property tax payers who qualify for the homeowners exemption. The bill is a combination of three prior proposals from the House and Senate. The Senate Local Government and Taxation committee approved the bill Thursday, getting it one step closer to the governor’s desk. But one part of the bill makes school districts nervous. The proposal would also do away with a March election date that is reserved for school districts to ask voters for supplemental bonds and levies. On Friday, Logan Finney sat down with deputy director Quinn Perry of the Idaho School Boards Association to get her take.
Sat, 18 Mar 2023
Lawmakers are eyeing the calendar to adjourn soon, but there are still issues and budgets to tackle. Logan Finney discusses the implications of a property tax relief bill with Quinn Perry from the Idaho School Boards Association. Ruth Brown talks to Ritchie Eppink from the ACLU of Idaho and Seth Grigg from the Idaho Association of Counties about a proposal to overhaul public defense in Idaho.
Thu, 16 Mar 2023
Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, has spent several years trying to bring a Clean Slate Act - legislation that allows for minor criminal offenses to be sealed or expunged - to Idaho. She sat down this week with producer Ruth Brown to talk about a bill that passed this year with overwhelming bipartisan support and the compromises it took to achieve it.
Tue, 14 Mar 2023
What happens when people decide to stop arguing and start listening? Philanthropist Greg Carr and Boise State University wanted to find a way to encourage people to engage in respectful listening, to get to know each other beyond labels or superficial impressions. Eleven ordinary Idahoans came to the BSU campus in fall 2022 to share stories about their lives in Idaho, and the audience had to agree to listen without interruption, without questions, without cheers or jeers. IdahoPTV documented the Idaho Listens project, and what the Idaho “listeners” took away from the project. The resulting documentary, Idaho Listens, airs Friday, March 24, at 8:30 PM on Idaho Public Television.
Sat, 11 Mar 2023
This week, we take a look at the life and career of Gov. Phil Batt, who died Saturday, March 4th, on his 96th birthday. Then, Gov. Dirk Kempthorne, Sen. Jim Risch, Gov. Butch Otter, and Gov. Brad Little join the show to share memories of their friend and mentor. Plus, Republican and Democratic leadership review the progress - or lack thereof - made so far this legislative session.
Wed, 08 Mar 2023
Former Idaho Gov. Phil Batt passed away this week, and will lie in state at the capitol before a public funeral. His former chief of staff Jeff Malmen joined Melissa Davlin to remember the former governor.
Sat, 04 Mar 2023
Idaho Reports examines a proposal to provide driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants. Then, Sen. Ben Adams, Sen. Scott Herndon, Sen. Janie Ward-Engelking, and Rep. Lance Clow discuss what might be next in the school choice debate, and whether this is the year the Idaho Legislature will find a compromise.
Thu, 02 Mar 2023
The Idaho Senate rejected a high-profile education savings account proposal on a 12-23 vote after a lengthy debate on Monday. CEO Terry Ryan from the charter school nonprofit Bluum sat down with Logan Finney last week to talk about some of the issues he saw with the bill, the lessons he has learned from his career in the school choice policy arena, and what lawmakers should keep in mind as they negotiate the next ESA bills. Read more about the demise of SB 1038 here: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2023/02/27/senate-rejects-education-savings-account-proposal/ Read about new ESA bills introduced in the House here: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2023/02/28/house-education-previews-esa-bills-says-no-to-sboe-elections/
Sat, 25 Feb 2023
According to the calendar set by legislative leadership, the lawmaking session is just over halfway done. This week, Governor Brad Little addresses reporters’ questions about the session so far. Then, Senate Assistant Majority Leader Sen. Abby Lee discusses removing ineligible participants from Medicaid and a bill she is sponsoring regarding mistreatment of vulnerable adults.
Wed, 22 Feb 2023
Election bills are surfacing this legislative session on many topics, from voter identification and absentee ballots to safety at the polls. Secretary of State Phil McGrane sat down with producer Ruth Brown on Tuesday afternoon to walk through some of the bills moving around the statehouse, and his priorities as the state's chief elections officer.
Sat, 18 Feb 2023
The Senate Education Committee has passed a bill to create education savings accounts. It's been described as school choice, education freedom, and of course, vouchers. Chairman Sen. Dave Lent and Sen. Lori Den Hartog join Logan Finney this week to talk about the $45 million proposal. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Kaye Thornbrugh of the CDA Press discuss a recent request that North Idaho College show concrete evidence its accreditation should not be revoked.
Thu, 16 Feb 2023
You're used to filling out liability waivers regularly in your everyday life, but thanks to a quirk in case law, those waivers are not enforceable in an Idaho court if they come from an outdoor recreation guide or outfitter. The Senate Judiciary & Rules Committee this week took up a piece of legislation that seeks to remedy the situation.
Sun, 12 Feb 2023
House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel is the co-chair of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee, which currently oversees the Office of Performance Evaluations. Associate Producer Logan Finney sat down with Rep. Rubel on Friday morning to discuss her opposition to a bill that would eliminate the committee, as well as her views on the Idaho Launch program and the Democrats’ impact on important House votes.
Sat, 11 Feb 2023
House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel shares her concerns over some of this session’s proposals, including bills to change oversight of the Office of Performance Evaluations and to ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth. Then, Rep. Wendy Horman and Sen. C. Scott Grow, co-chairs of the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee, discuss changes to how the committee will vote in the future.
Thu, 09 Feb 2023
The House Transportation & Defense Committee passed a bill last week that would give the state authority over any long-term changes made to the block of streets around the capitol building. BoiseDev senior reporter Margaret Carmel joins Logan Finney this week to discuss why the bill has caught the attention and ire of local officials in Boise and Ada County. Read Margaret's story: https://boisedev.com/news/2023/02/01/achd-5th-6th-goldthorpe/
Sun, 05 Feb 2023
After serving as the Idaho House Majority Leader for 16 years, Rep. Mike Moyle, R-Star, became Speaker of the House in December. Already, he’s trying to make some big changes, both in public policy and in how the legislature runs. He sat down with Melissa Davlin this week to discuss his vision for the legislature and the state in a wide-ranging interview covering property taxes, budgets, education, Medicaid, and much more.
Sat, 04 Feb 2023
Things are finally picking up at the legislature, with new proposals introduced on property tax relief, education savings accounts, and absentee voting. Plus, Idaho’s new House Speaker Mike Moyle discusses his vision for the legislature and the state in a wide-ranging interview covering property taxes, budgets, education, Medicaid, and much more.
Thu, 02 Feb 2023
The Idaho Division of Veterans Services operates several skilled nursing homes across the state and helps Idaho veterans access resources and services. Chief administrator Mark Tschampl joins Logan Finney this week to discuss the staffing challenges faced by his agency, and plans to renovate Idaho's state-run veterans homes.
Sat, 28 Jan 2023
It was education week at the statehouse, with budget pitches for K-12 and higher education. We look at some heated debates around funding needs across the state, including recruiting and retaining employees. Then, Idaho State University President Kevin Satterlee, College of Eastern Idaho President Rick Aman and College of Western Idaho President Gordon Jones discuss challenges in higher education.
Thu, 26 Jan 2023
Idaho's newly elected Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield joins host Melissa Davlin to discuss her budget presentation to JFAC this week, priorities for the legislative session, combatting pandemic learning loss, and the ongoing school choice debate.
Sat, 21 Jan 2023
Power substations across the U.S. have sustained attacks recently, leaving thousands without power. How vulnerable is Idaho and what’s being done to prepare for the future? Plus, Senate Majority Caucus Chair Mark Harris discusses administrative rules, and Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the Idaho Capital Sun talks about how Idaho GOP leaders’ priorities may differ from those of some Republican lawmakers.
Wed, 18 Jan 2023
Producer Ruth Brown sits down with Rep. Bruce Skaug, the new chairman of the House Judiciary, Rules & Administration Committee, to discuss the issues that will come before the committee this session, which range from execution procedures and judicial appointments to gender-affirming care for transgender minors and mandatory minimums for drug crimes.
Sat, 14 Jan 2023
This week, producer Ruth Brown examines a report regarding abuse endured by Idahoans with disabilities and what the state could do to remedy the situation. Then, Chris Cargill of the Mountain States Policy Center and Alex LaBeau of the Idaho Association for Commerce and Industry join Melissa Davlin to discuss Gov. Brad Little’s legislative priorities.
Thu, 12 Jan 2023
It's the first week of the legislative session in Boise, and lawmakers are hitting the ground running. Associate producer Logan Finney speaks with Jayson Ronk, vice president for public affairs at Blue Cross of Idaho, about the different kinds of lobbyists at the statehouse and what the job entails.
Mon, 09 Jan 2023
Governor Brad Little lays out his priorities for the 2023 legislative session in the first state of the state and budget address of his second term. Melissa Davlin is joined by pundits Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, Dr. Stephanie DeWitt of Boise State University and Alex Adams of the Division of Financial Management.
Sat, 07 Jan 2023
Idaho’s statewide officers are sworn in and lawmakers are busy gearing up for the session. This week, we get a preview of the governor’s priorities for the upcoming legislative session, as well as how well those goals mesh with what House and Senate leaders have in mind. Ruth Brown sits down with freshmen Reps. Jaron Crane and Soñia Galaviz, then David Leroy and Andy Brunelle discuss the historical significance of Friday’s public inauguration ceremony.
Fri, 06 Jan 2023
Idaho's constitutional officers are sworn in, including Gov. Brad Little, Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, Attorney General Raúl Labrador, Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Superintendent Debbie Critchfield, Controller Brandon Woolf, and Treasurer Julie Ellsworth. Melissa Davlin discusses the significance of public inaugurations with former Lt. Gov. David Leroy and former Gov. Andrus staffer Andy Brunelle.
Thu, 05 Jan 2023
Just before the end of the year, the newly formed Mountain States Policy Center released the results of a public policy survey they conducted shortly after the November election. MSPC President Chris Cargill joins Melissa Davlin this week to discuss those results, as well as the think tank’s priorities for the legislative session that starts next week.
Sat, 17 Dec 2022
For decades, much of the discussion around higher education has focused on universities. But the Idaho Department of Labor is trying to show kids that there are other options, like apprenticeships, and they’re using a unique way to reach them. Kevin Richert joins us to discuss the latest news from North Idaho College, plus more about what the conversation around school choice might look like this upcoming legislative session. Then, Director Jani Revier of the Idaho Department of Labor talks about the department’s efforts to educate students about apprenticeship programs.
Sat, 10 Dec 2022
Idaho is one of the only states that provides no general funds for local domestic violence services, and providers rely almost entirely on federal funding. This week, producer Ruth Brown explores funding challenges for rural domestic violence programs. Then, outgoing attorney general Lawrence Wasden joins Melissa Davlin to discuss his career and the transition to the incoming Raúl Labrador administration.
Thu, 08 Dec 2022
Last week on the Friday show, we featured a segment about the environmental cleanup in the Bunker Hill Superfund site, which stretches all the way from the Montana state border in Shoshone County past the Washington state border in Kootenai County. To dig a little deeper into North Idaho’s Silver Valley this week, associate producer Logan Finney is joined by Idaho Public Television executive producer Bill Manny, who put together a new documentary that premiered this weekend on Idaho Experience: “Remembering the Sunshine Mine Disaster.” ----- "Remembering the Sunshine Mine Disaster" from Idaho Experience: https://video.idahoptv.org/video/remembering-the-sunshine-mine-disaster-50lk8m/ Learn more about the region's economic transformation in "Silver Valley Rising" from Outdoor Idaho: https://video.idahoptv.org/video/outdoor-idaho-silver-valley-rising/ Learn more about Coeur d'Alene Basin water quality testing in "Health of Our Lakes" from Outdoor Idaho: https://video.idahoptv.org/video/outdoor-idaho-health-our-lakes/
Sat, 03 Dec 2022
For the first time in a decade, the Idaho House of Representatives has a new speaker, and the rest of the lawmakers have their new committee assignments. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press break down what that means for Idahoans. Plus, a new chapter in the decades-long effort to clean up historic mining waste in the Bunker Hill Superfund site.
Fri, 02 Dec 2022
This week, the Idaho Legislature convened in Boise for an organizational session at the state capitol in preparation for the 2023 session. Associate producer Logan Finney spoke with several newly elected members about their experiences transitioning from candidate to legislator, what they learned this week at orientation, and what they expect to see during the session in January.
Sat, 19 Nov 2022
It’s no surprise that if you’re in rural Idaho and get hurt, it may take a while for first responders to get you to a hospital. But some EMS directors say Idaho’s policies on funding emergency medical services are making it even more difficult for them to help Idahoans. This week, we explore funding for emergency medical services in rural Idaho, and what policy changes might help those communities. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Kaye Thornbrugh of the Coeur d’Alene Press discuss the recent heated trustee elections at the College of Western Idaho and North Idaho College and what the races’ outcomes mean for Idaho’s students. We’ll also discuss the horrific events at the University of Idaho, and what role a university has when students are victims of crimes that happen off campus.
Thu, 17 Nov 2022
This week, producer Ruth Brown is joined by Director Lee Flinn of the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline to discuss the state's transition from the existing suicide hotline to the new nationwide crisis number 9-8-8. They discuss the resources available for Idahoans who call the new behavioral health crisis line, the increased call volume seen since the launch of the new number, and the next steps for suicide and mental health crisis prevention in Idaho. Visit www.call988idaho.com for resources and more information about the hotline.
Sat, 12 Nov 2022
This week, Betty Richardson, Ken Burgess, and Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University join Melissa Davlin to break down congressional, statewide and legislative election results. Our panelists look at Tuesday’s election outcome and what those results say about the political climate in Idaho. We’ll also hear from winning statewide candidates about their visions for the state in the next few years.
Thu, 10 Nov 2022
U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo addresses supporters at the Idaho Republican Party election night celebration Nov. 8, 2022 in downtown Boise.
Thu, 10 Nov 2022
Idaho Gov. Brad Little addresses supporters at the Idaho Republican Party election night celebration Nov. 8, 2022 in downtown Boise.
Mon, 07 Nov 2022
Tuesday, November 8th, follow Idaho Reports online for live coverage of the general election. The Idaho Reports team will be on the ground throughout the day bringing you updates online. Plus, statewide and legislative results after the polls close, and political analysis of what it means for our state.
Sat, 05 Nov 2022
The race for Idaho governor is a bit different this year, with incumbent Gov. Brad Little refusing to debate while facing challenges from both the left and right. This week, gubernatorial candidates Stephen Heidt and Ammon Bundy sit down to share their visions for Idaho. We also bring you up to speed on the fighters supporting and opposing the constitutional amendment on Tuesday’s ballot.
Thu, 03 Nov 2022
Stephen Heidt is the Democratic candidate running for Idaho Governor. His opponent, incumbent Gov. Brad Little, declined an invitation from Idaho Public Television to participate in The Idaho Debates. Heidt spoke with Idaho Reports on Nov. 2.
Thu, 03 Nov 2022
Ammon Bundy is an independent candidate running for Idaho Governor. His opponent, incumbent Gov. Brad Little, declined an invitation from Idaho Public Television to participate in The Idaho Debates. Bundy spoke with Idaho Reports on Nov. 2.
Thu, 03 Nov 2022
This week, Logan Finney is joined by Margie Gonzalez, Executive Director of the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs, to discuss Hispanic voter outreach in Idaho, recent improvements and difficulties in that arena, and where Latino Idahoans can find election resources and assistance at polls. Visit https://contamosidaho.org/ for more bilingual voter information and resources.
Sat, 29 Oct 2022
Candidates for Idaho Lieutenant Governor debate ahead of the November 8th general election. Scott Bedke and Terri Pickens Manweiler answer questions from Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press and Ryan Suppe of the Idaho Statesman, moderated by Melissa Davlin.
Thu, 27 Oct 2022
When people think of politicians and elections, they're not usually thinking of a judge in a courtroom -- but the Idaho Constitution stipulates that judges shall be elected in the state. Jeff Brudie, interim executive director of the Idaho Judicial Council, joins Logan Finney this week to discuss the judicial elections that Idahoans will see on this year’s general election ballot, and the special considerations that judges face while campaigning that other candidates do not.
Tue, 25 Oct 2022
Candidates for Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction debate ahead of the November 8th general election. Debbie Critchfield and Terry Gilbert answer questions from Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio, moderated by Melissa Davlin.
Sat, 22 Oct 2022
You know you’re voting for lawmakers and state offices - but what about the constitution? This week, Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder and House Assistant Minority Leader Lauren Necochea talk about the constitutional amendment that, if passed, would allow the Legislature to call itself back into session. Legislators have wanted that power for years, but the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated health orders and emergency declarations pushed it to the top of the priority list.
Sat, 22 Oct 2022
Republican Julie Ellsworth is running for her second term as Idaho State Treasurer and sat down with Idaho Reports on Oct. 20. Her opponent, Democrat Deborah Silver, declined an invitation from Idaho Public Television to participate in The Idaho Debates.
Fri, 21 Oct 2022
Republican Phil McGrane is running for his first term as Idaho Secretary of State. His opponent, Democrat Shawn Keenan, didn’t respond to an invitation from Idaho Public Television to submit materials for consideration for The Idaho Debates. McGrane spoke with Idaho Reports on Oct. 20.
Fri, 21 Oct 2022
Republican Brandon Woolf is running for his third term as Idaho Controller. His opponents, Democratic party candidate Dianna David and Constitution party candidate, Miste Gardner, didn’t respond to invitations from Idaho Public Television to submit materials for consideration for The Idaho Debates. Woolf sat down with Idaho Reports on Oct. 20.
Thu, 20 Oct 2022
Top of the ticket races get the most coverage in any given election cycle, but those elected in down-ticket legislative and local races also make critical decisions that affect the everyday lives of Idahoans. Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University’s School of Public Service joins Melissa Davlin this week to discuss some of this year’s hot legislative face-offs.
Wed, 19 Oct 2022
Kaylee Peterson is a Democrat running to represent Idaho's First Congressional District. Her opponent, incumbent Rep. Russ Fulcher, declined an invitation from Idaho Public Television to participate in The Idaho Debates. Peterson spoke with Idaho Reports on Oct. 12.
Wed, 19 Oct 2022
Wendy Norman is a Democrat running to represent Idaho's Second Congressional District. Her opponent, incumbent Rep. Mike Simpson, declined an invitation from Idaho Public Television to participate in The Idaho Debates. Norman spoke with Idaho Reports on Oct. 14.
Sat, 15 Oct 2022
This week, we sit down with Kaylee Peterson, who is challenging incumbent Rep. Russ Fulcher in the First Congressional District, and Wendy Norman, who is challenging incumbent Rep. Mike Simpson in the Second Congressional District. Both Democrats, Peterson and Norman did not have the chance to debate this election cycle because the incumbent candidates declined to participate in the Idaho Debates.
Thu, 13 Oct 2022
Stephen Miller from the University of Idaho College of Law joins Logan Finney this week to discuss Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. This case was the first of the high court's new term and was heard last Monday. It begins with the Sacketts, who are a couple that purchased a piece of property in 2004 near Priest Lake, Idaho, in the northern panhandle. The Sacketts began to build a home on their lot in 2007, but construction was stopped by the EPA because, according to the agency, the property contains wetlands that are regulated under the federal Clean Water Act. Under existing court precedent, “jurisdiction over wetlands depends upon the existence of a significant nexus between the wetlands in question and navigable waters in the traditional sense.” However, the Sackets ask the court to consider whether that is the proper test for determining whether wetlands are “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.
Sat, 08 Oct 2022
It’s been a busy summer for abortion law in Idaho – and the election is just a month away. Dr. Stephanie Witt of Boise State University and former U.S. Attorney for Idaho Bart Davis join Melissa Davlin to discuss this week’s election debates. Then, Sen. Melissa Wintrow and House Majority Caucus Chair Megan Blanksma sit down with Ruth Brown to discuss Idaho Supreme Court oral arguments over three separate lawsuits concerning abortion bans that went into place this past summer.
Thu, 06 Oct 2022
Candidates for Idaho’s seat in the U.S. Senate debate ahead of the November 8th general election. Incumbent Mike Crapo and challengers David Roth and Scott Cleveland answer questions from Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, Margaret Carmel of BoiseDev.com, and Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun, moderated by Melissa Davlin. The Idaho Debates is a collaborative effort among the Idaho Press Club, Boise State University’s School of Public Service, University of Idaho’s McClure Center, Idaho State University’s Department of Political Science, League of Women Voters’ Voter Education Fund, and Idaho Public Television. Our goal is to give the public an unbiased platform to hear the views of congressional candidates on the ballot. We do not support or oppose political parties or candidates. Visit https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahodebates/ to learn more.
Wed, 05 Oct 2022
Candidates for Idaho Attorney General debate ahead of the November 8th general election. Raúl Labrador and Tom Arkoosh answer questions from Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the Idaho Capital Sun and Jake Garcia of KIVI, moderated by Melissa Davlin. The Idaho Debates is a collaborative effort among the Idaho Press Club, Boise State University’s School of Public Service, University of Idaho’s McClure Center, Idaho State University’s Department of Political Science, League of Women Voters’ Voter Education Fund, and Idaho Public Television. Our goal is to give the public an unbiased platform to hear the views of congressional candidates on the ballot. We do not support or oppose political parties or candidates. Visit https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahodebates/ to learn more.
Fri, 30 Sep 2022
Late last week, general counsel for the University of Idaho sent an email to all employees advising them not discuss, promote, or make referrals for abortion or birth control, lest they run afoul of the No Public Funds For Abortion Act, a state law passed in 2021 that prohibits the use of public assets or employees to promote or provide abortion services. Former Idaho Supreme Court Justice and former Idaho Attorney General Jim Jones joins Melissa Davlin on the podcast this week to discuss the memo and its first amendment implications.
Thu, 22 Sep 2022
On Tuesday morning, the Idaho State Board of Land Commissioners approved $6 million for a Minidoka County property and $17.2 million for construction costs for the University of Idaho's Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment. The planned facility would be the largest research dairy in the United States. Mark McGuire, Director of the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station & Associate Dean of Research at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, joins the podcast this week to discuss the landmark step in the decades-long CAFE project.
Thu, 15 Sep 2022
For the past several days the air quality in Idaho has been deemed “seriously unhealthy,” “unhealthy” or “unhealthy for sensitive groups” across the state. The EPA issued “hazardous” air warnings for some areas. Some Idaho high schools canceled outdoor sporting events due to poor air quality. Mike Toole from the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality joins Melissa Davlin on the podcast this week to discuss the air quality index, seasonal wildfire smoke, and the impacts of unhealthy air quality. The DEQ has an interactive map of Idaho’s air quality at airquality.deq.idaho.gov on its website. The information is also available at the airnow.gov website or through the AirNow app.
Wed, 07 Sep 2022
Last Thursday, the Idaho Legislature convened in a one-day special session to pass a wide-ranging bill with $500 million in one-time tax rebates, $150 million in ongoing tax cuts, and more than $400 million in ongoing education spending. Miguel Legarreta, president of the Associated Taxpayers of Idaho, joins the podcast this week to breaks down the tax components of the bill. Then Kelley Packer, executive director of the Association of Idaho Cities, explains how the education component may affect sales tax distribution to local governments, and what her organization wishes the governor had proposed instead.
Sat, 03 Sep 2022
$500 million in tax rebates, $150 million in ongoing tax cuts, and more than $400 million in ongoing education spending. It took just ten hours to pass a wide-ranging bill with a historic price tag attached, and while the overwhelming majority of lawmakers voted yes, we heard a lot of misgivings about the bill, and the process. We’ll break down how the changes affect you. Sen. Steven Thayn and Reps. Julie Yamamoto, Gayann Demordaunt and Sally Toone share their takes on the special session, then Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins us to break down the education components.
Wed, 31 Aug 2022
Governor Brad Little has called the legislature back for a special session to be held on Sept. 1, 2022. Join us on Idaho Public Television at 8 p.m., Friday, September 2nd, for a half-hour Idaho Reports special on the session. Or go to idahoptv.org/idahoreports to watch it on demand after the broadcast.
Thu, 25 Aug 2022
This week, Gov. Brad Little announced he is calling a special legislative session for September 1. The governor has proposed a wide-ranging piece of legislation that would provide record-setting tax cuts and investments in education. Alex Adams, the administrator for the Division of Financial Management, joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the proposal.
Thu, 18 Aug 2022
Ruth Brown is joined this week by Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press to discuss drafting disputes surrounding the tax effects of an education proposition set to be on the November ballot. Read the full story here: https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/claims-unfounded-why-school-funding-initiative-wouldnt-have-higher-than-advertised-price-tag/article_19a1992d-ac3a-5c20-8c8b-b64b0b26708f.html
Wed, 10 Aug 2022
Idaho Voices for Children director Christine Tiddens joins Melissa Davlin to talk about the new KIDS COUNT Data Book, an annual report that examines child wellbeing state-by-state in four indicator categories. This year's report shows that mental health challenges are still a struggle for Idaho youth, despite overall improvements over the past decade. View the full report here: https://www.aecf.org/resources/2022-kids-count-data-book
Thu, 04 Aug 2022
Idaho Governor Brad Little joins Melissa Davlin for a web-exclusive episode of Idaho Reports. They discuss Idaho’s abortion trigger law, the state’s ongoing budget surplus, high gas prices, the primary election system, marriage equality, education, highway safety, and much more.
Thu, 28 Jul 2022
COVID-19 numbers are again creeping up in Idaho and across the country, with test positivity rates above 15% in many parts of the state. Public Information Officer Katherine Hoyer from the Panhandle Health District joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the current COVID-19 wave, how it's different than previous ones, and how hospitals are coping.
Wed, 20 Jul 2022
Logan Finney is joined by Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner for a web-exclusive episode of Idaho Reports. They discuss INL's net-zero carbon emission goals, the lab's work in cyber security, and where nuclear power fits in global and regional energy policy.
Thu, 14 Jul 2022
Far-right gubernatorial candidate Ammon Bundy and his associate Diego Rodriguez did not appear in court Tuesday after failing to cooperate in a lawsuit filed by the state’s largest hospital system. Audrey Dutton of the Idaho Capital Sun joins Ruth Brown to discuss the origins of the case and the latest developments in court. St. Luke’s Health System and its providers filed a lawsuit against Bundy and Rodriguez in May stating he and his supporters made false claims against the hospital and led protests that resulted in a temporary lockdown at one facility. The lockdown resulted in ambulances being diverted to other hospitals. It also alleges the defendants disparaged St. Luke’s, its CEO Chris Roth and a St. Luke’s physician and nurse practitioner. Read more: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2022/07/12/defendants-are-no-shows-in-lawsuit-stemming-from-st-lukes-hospital-lockdown/
Wed, 06 Jul 2022
We're taking a break from the podcast this week in observation of the 4th of July holiday. In the meantime, visit idahoptv.org/idahoreports for links to all our coverage and to sign up for our weekly email newsletter.
Thu, 30 Jun 2022
Long-term construction projects are nothing new to Idaho residents, especially those who drive mountain roads where road engineering is a bit more complex. And the risk of rock slides makes competent engineering all the more critical. Earlier this week, Margaret Carmel and Autumn Robertson of BoiseDev.com released the results of a six-month investigation into major rockslides at a construction site on Highway 55 near Smiths Ferry. Today, Margaret joins us to discuss their work.
Thu, 23 Jun 2022
The Idaho Democratic Party held their annual state convention last weekend in downtown Boise. Rep. Colin Nash joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the convention, their newly adopted platform, and the health of the party.
Thu, 16 Jun 2022
Homeowners across the state of Idaho started receiving their property assessments last week, once again reigniting the state's conversation on property taxes. Mayor Dan Johnson of Lewiston, who is a state senator, and Mayor Kevin England of Chubbuck, who is the president of the Association of Idaho Cities, join Logan Finney this week to discuss rising property values, the taxes that come along with them, and what can be done about it. Idaho State Tax Commission property tax estimator: https://tax.idaho.gov/i-1072.cfm
Wed, 15 Jun 2022
Idaho made national news over the weekend for the Coeur d'Alene arrest of 31 men affiliated with the white nationalist group Patriot Front who law enforcement say planned to riot downtown. Logan Finney is joined by Coeur d'Alene Press reporter Kaye Thornbrugh to go over the incident and what has been learned since.
Thu, 09 Jun 2022
This week, Rachel Cohen of Boise State Public Radio joins Logan Finney to discuss a proposed wind farm in south-central Idaho that, if constructed, would be the largest wind facility in the state. As the federal government pushes for more domestic renewable energy production, Idahoans are mixed on supporting clean energy and job creation while voicing concerns about possible environmental and cultural impacts.
Thu, 02 Jun 2022
About a week after the May primary election, the Idaho Secretary of State's office announced a group of eight counties that would be examined in the first post-election integrity audit conducted by the state under a new law passed this legislative session. This week, elections directors Helena Welling from Bonneville County and Cy Lootens from Jerome County join Logan Finney to discuss what the audit was like for their staff and what they learned in the process.
Sat, 28 May 2022
Idaho Reports is the longest-running public policy show in the West, and we are celebrating our 50th anniversary this year! Many of the debates at the statehouse have stayed the same over the past five decades, but a lot has changed. Plus, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, and Chief Deputy Secretary of State Chad Houck discuss election audits and more.
Thu, 26 May 2022
News of a shooting this week at an elementary school in Uvalde, TX has drawn reactions across the country and the state, including protests by high school students in Boise. Following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, FL in 2018, Idaho Reports talked to students protesting gun violence at the statehouse, then hosted a roundtable discussion with House Speaker Scott Bedke, Idaho Freedom Foundation President Wayne Hoffman, then-Boise School District trustee Beth Oppenheimer and then-Boise High School senior Will Tanguy.
Sat, 21 May 2022
The dust settles after a long-fought primary that divided conservatives and drew national attention. Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, Kevin Richert of Idaho Ed News, former Secretary of State Ben Ysursa, and Rep. Jason Monks discuss the factors behind Tuesday night’s wins and losses, including the seismic turnover in the Idaho House and Senate and what it means for the next legislative session.
Thu, 19 May 2022
Tuesday, May 17 was Idaho's primary election for statewide and legislative offices. Between the retirement of prominent lawmakers and defeat of multiple others, the Senate is going to be more conservative next year. No one in legislative leadership lost their primary races, though multiple committee chairs and vice chairs lost. No one section of the state was particularly worse for incumbents than the others, with challengers seeing victories in the north, central, west and eastern parts of the state. And while a handful of extremely conservative House members lost their races, other conservative challengers beat more moderate Republicans. Read more: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2022/05/18/primary-analysis-a-bad-night-for-incumbents/ https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/category/elections/
Sat, 14 May 2022
Tonight on Idaho Reports, we take a look at the state’s booming economy and what it means for revenues. Plus, a preview of the Tuesday primary election, Republican infighting, and advice for Idaho families struggling to find baby.
Thu, 12 May 2022
This week, reporters James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio and Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the Idaho Capital Sun join Logan Finney ahead of next week's primary election for a dive into campaign finance reporting: who's raising donations, where is it all coming from, and why is it so difficult to keep track of it all? Read James's story: https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/politics-government/2022-05-09/far-right-activists-set-to-spend-big-on-state-legislative-races/ Read Kelcie's story: https://idahocapitalsun.com/2022/05/11/something-were-going-to-see-more-of-how-pacs-are-influencing-idahos-may-17-primary/ Find official election information: https://idahovotes.gov/
Fri, 06 May 2022
A leaked draft opinion indicates the U.S. Supreme Court is poised to overturn Roe v Wade. If the court overturns the precedent, an Idaho trigger law would criminalize nearly all abortion with exceptions for rape, incest, and the life of the mother. Rep. Brent Crane and Rep. Lauren Necochea discuss how Idaho might move forward once an opinion is finalized. Then, Marc Johnson provides a historical perspective on the state’s legislative abortion battles over the past few decades.
Thu, 05 May 2022
This week, Idaho Department of Lands Fire Management Bureau Chief Josh Harvey joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the upcoming fire season, how the trends and statistics have changed in past years, and what individuals can do to avoid accidentally sparking a blaze this summer.
Sat, 30 Apr 2022
House Majority Caucus Chair Rep. Megan Blanksma looks back at the 2022 legislative session, and discusses how the upcoming primary election could change next year’s dynamics at the statehouse. Then, Stephanie Witt of Boise State University and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press review the week’s statewide primary debates and heated races.
Thu, 28 Apr 2022
Power County Clerk Sharee Sprague and Oneida County Clerk Lon Colton join associate producer Logan Finney to discuss election security, voting policy at the legislature, and what county elections offices are doing to prepare for the 2022 spring primary. Find election information at https://voteidaho.gov/ Find candidate debates at https://www.idahoptv.org/elections/ Listen to our previous coverage of some election bills introduced in the Legislature: https://soundcloud.com/idaho-reports/episode-election-bills-galore/
Wed, 27 Apr 2022
Republican candidates for Idaho Secretary of State debate ahead of the May 17th primary election. Ada County Clerk Phil McGrane, Sen. Mary Souza, and Rep. Dorothy Moon answer questions from Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, Ryan Suppe of the Idaho Statesman, and Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the Idaho Capital Sun, moderated by Melissa Davlin of Idaho Reports.
Tue, 26 Apr 2022
GOP candidates for Superintendent of Public Instruction debate ahead of the May 17th primary election. Incumbent Superintendent Shrerri Ybarra, former state senator Branden Durst, and former Board of Education president Debbie Critchfield respond to questions from Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, Jakob Thorington of the Post Register, and Kevin Richert of Idaho Ed News, moderated by Aaron Kunz of Idaho Public Television.
Sat, 23 Apr 2022
Ruth Brown speaks with Twin Falls Housing Authority executive director Sunny Shaw about the growing issue of Idaho’s affordable housing shortage and what role the state could take in addressing it. Madelyn Beck of Boise State Public Radio details some of her recent reporting about people living on public lands. Then, Logan Finney is joined by Stephanie Witt and Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University for a look back at this week's attorney general debate and ahead to the rest of the primary election season.
Wed, 20 Apr 2022
Republican candidates for Idaho Attorney General debate ahead of the May 17th primary election. Incumbent Attorney General Lawrence Wasden, former Congressman Raul Labrador, and attorney Arthur “Art” Macomber respond to questions from James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio, Morgan Romero of KTVB, and Keith Ridler of the Associated Press, moderated by Melissa Davlin of Idaho Reports.
Sat, 16 Apr 2022
Months after news broke of foster children needing to stay in hotels because of a lack of foster families, lawmakers made new investments in the system for recruitment and retention. But is it enough to fix the problems? This week, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press discusses election debates and the latest in the lawsuit over Idaho’s new abortion law. Then, Family and Community Services Administrator Cameron Gilliland and Program Specialist Julie Sevcik from the Department of Health and Welfare discuss this legislative session’s investments in the child welfare system.
Thu, 14 Apr 2022
North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene faced a regional accreditation review this past year after complaints about conduct by its board of trustees. The school held on to its accreditation, but not without a warning to get its governance in order. Now, enough trustees have resigned that NIC is left without a functional board. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney to break down the latest. Read Kevin's stories here: https://www.idahoednews.org/news/analysis-elections-have-consequences-and-nic-is-facing-them/ https://www.idahoednews.org/news/a-polarizing-presence-at-the-center-of-nics-dysfunction/
Sat, 09 Apr 2022
Public defense has long been a fraught issue in Idaho. How far have we come, and how much more work is left? This week, Idaho State Appellate Public Defender Eric Fredericksen and Idaho Association of Counties executive director Seth Grigg discuss recent changes to public defense funding. Then, Boise State University hydrologist Alejandro Flores discusses this year's drought and what it means for fire season and agriculture.
Thu, 07 Apr 2022
New funding for Idaho schools to move their employees on to the state health insurance plan was touted as a "game changer" for education this legislative session. Blake Jones from Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney to discuss why some districts are hesitant to switch over for fear that the funding won’t cover the full costs. Read the Idaho Ed News article: https://www.idahoednews.org/news/schools-hesitant-to-join-idahos-health-insurance-plan-with-incoming-funding-boost/
Sat, 02 Apr 2022
The 2022 legislative session is officially finished. We bring you the latest on criminal justice and what the legislature managed to accomplish on property taxes. Ruth Brown discusses criminal justice issues with Reps. Greg Chaney and Colin Nash, then Logan Finney reviews legislation to revamp the public defense system with executive director Kelley Packer from the Association of Idaho Cities.
Thu, 31 Mar 2022
This week, Logan Finney is joined by Rep. Dustin Manwaring, R-Pocatello, to discuss House Bill 583 or the Digital Assets Act. The new law — which Manwaring sponsored and Gov. Brad Little signed into law this week — provides definitions for digital assets, lays the framework for their use in the financial sector, and outlines how these assets fit into existing Idaho property law.
Sat, 26 Mar 2022
Lawmakers saw more starts and stops this week as they tried to wrap up the session by Friday. But a resurrected library debate stalled adjournment plans, at least temporarily. We’ll have the latest with Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press. Plus, Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett gives us her take on the session.
Sat, 26 Mar 2022
The statewide test positivity rate dropped to an all-time low of 1.5%. The longtime goal of the Department of Health and Welfare is to keep the rate below 5%. Only one county, Benewah, currently has a moderate transmission risk, while the other forty three counties are currently at low risk. More than half of Idaho’s counties have seven day moving average case rates of 3 or less per 100,000 people. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions are also at the lowest point since June 2021. While officials have said more surges are possible in the future, especially with new variants, COVID-19 treatments are continually improving, which decreases death rates and hospitalizations. With that good news, this is our last broadcasted weekly COVID-19 update. We’ll continue to follow COVID-19 news online, including any future surges or public policy changes.
Thu, 24 Mar 2022
This week, Kelsey Mosley-Morris from the Idaho Capital Sun talks to Ruth Brown about a controversial bill speeding through the capitol that could change the way judges are appointed.
Sat, 19 Mar 2022
The clock is ticking on this year’s legislative session, and lawmakers are rapidly passing a number of bills. What’s left for them to address? Major property tax relief and full day kindergarten – some of the biggest talkers of the last few months. Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press helps break down the week, and Rep. Fred Wood gives his take on the state of rural health care.
Sat, 19 Mar 2022
The state saw more good news this week, as the statewide test positivity rate dropped to 2.5%. That’s the lowest the positivity rate has been since the pandemic began in 2020. The longtime goal of the Department of Health and Welfare was to keep the rate below 5%. The state’s all-time high test positivity rate was nearly 38% back in January. With the decrease in positive cases, the state is also reporting a decrease in COVID hospitalizations. On a media call Tuesday, the Department of Health and Welfare urged that this was progress, but the pandemic was not yet over and case counts could rise again. Ada County hit a grim milestone this week, marking 1,000 COVID-19 related deaths since the pandemic began. Statewide, the COVID vaccine is still widely available to those who want it. Only 76% of the population 65 and older are fully vaccinated in Idaho.
Fri, 18 Mar 2022
Friday evening was the candidate filing deadline for statewide and legislative offices. Melissa Davlin and Ruth Brown break down the early results, from familiar names on the ballot to future impacts at the statehouse.
Sat, 12 Mar 2022
A number of controversial legislative proposals are dying quiet deaths without hearings in the Idaho Senate. Plus, Garth Taylor of the University of Idaho explains how the war in Ukraine is affecting Idaho agriculture, and Sen. Peter Riggs discusses his proposed changes to civil commitment.
Fri, 11 Mar 2022
The state saw encouraging news this week as the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported Thursday that the statewide test positivity rate had dropped to 3.7%, down from last week’s 6.2%. That meets the state’s longtime goal of keeping the rate below 5% and is the lowest the rate has been at since June of 2021. The state’s all-time high test positivity rate was nearly 38% back in January. Gov. Brad Little announced this week that he plans to lift the state’s emergency disaster declaration on April 15. That comes after having a declaration in place since 2020. The declaration made Idaho eligible for federal emergency assistance in a time of crisis. While infection numbers are dropping, Idaho nears a grim milestone. The state nears 5,000 COVID-19 deaths, reporting 4,814 deaths as of Thursday. Nationwide, the death toll nears 1 million, as more than 965,000 COVID deaths had been reported across the country on Thursday.
Tue, 08 Mar 2022
Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder, Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett, and House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel answered questions from reporters about sales and property taxes, higher education funding They also covered controversial bills regarding libraries and gender-affirming healthcare for minors.
Sat, 05 Mar 2022
It’s been a big legislative session for education issues, but some major proposals, like full-day kindergarten, still don’t have consensus. Rep. Judy Boyle, Rep. John McCrostie, and Sen. Jim Woodward join us to give us their take.
Sat, 05 Mar 2022
In a sign of good news, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported Thursday that the statewide test positivity rate had dropped to 6.2%, down from last week’s 10%, nearly meeting the goal of keeping the rate below 5%. The state’s all-time high was nearly 38% in January. The number of available ICU beds statewide has also increased. On Thursday, there were 48 available ICU beds in Idaho. Back on Feb. 24 there were just 10 available ICU beds. Gov. Brad Little told the Idaho Press Club this week that he hopes to end the state’s emergency disaster declaration soon, but Idaho still needs the federal emergency resources that assist with health care staff and other labor shortages. As of Friday, the declaration was still active. But, the Idaho Legislature is trying to shut it down through a concurrent resolution, but some lawmakers are concerned it would jeopardize needed federal emergency funding. For more on that, visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports
Wed, 02 Mar 2022
On Wednesday morning, Gov. Brad Little met virtually with members of the Idaho Press Club. He answered questions from the press ranging from coronavirus issues to election laws and pending legislation.
Sat, 26 Feb 2022
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported Thursday that the statewide test positivity rate had dropped to 10%, down from last week’s updated 16.4%. This is progress, despite still being above the state’s goal of keeping the rate at 5% or less. While the state is not operating under crisis standards of care, the number of open ICU beds at Idaho hospitals remains low. On Thursday, the state only had 10 available ICU beds statewide. The state also announced this week that less than half of Idaho Medicaid participants are vaccinated for COVID, so testing is critical. Up to 12 tests per person per month are covered by Medicaid, according to the state. The COVID-19 vaccine is free to everyone, regardless of health insurance status.
Fri, 25 Feb 2022
“I can’t believe we’re here,” more than one legislator noted this week while discussing COVID vaccines and business interests. Idaho reporters will fill you in on what we might expect out of this legislative session: Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio, and Bill Spence of the Lewiston Tribune join Logan Finney to discuss wide ranging legislative proposals.
Thu, 24 Feb 2022
Last week, Facebook’s parent company Meta announced it has plans to build a new data center in the Treasure Valley. BoiseDev senior reporter Margaret Carmel joins Logan Finney to answer questions about the project, covering everything from Idaho's urban renewal and tax incentives to the possible economic and environmental impacts.
Sat, 19 Feb 2022
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare deactivated crisis standards of care for hospitals in three of Idaho’s seven public health districts. The department had activated crisis standards of care on Jan. 15 due to a shortage of healthcare workers and blood supply. The department did warn that the test positivity rate is still much higher than what is safe and hospitals are still stressed. The statewide test positivity rate Thursday was at 17%, down from last week’s 25.1%. The state’s goal is to keep the rate at 5% or less. Canyon County still has the highest number of new coronavirus infections in the state, followed by Ada, Kootenai, Twin Falls and Bannock counties. The Department Health and Welfare continues to recommend that Idahoans get vaccinated and boosted, wear a mask in public places, and stay home if you feel sick. Visit coronavirus.idaho.gov for more information.
Fri, 18 Feb 2022
This week, Rep. Wendy Horman and Sen. Janie Ward-Engelking discuss school choice, full day kindergarten, and other education policy and funding issues in front of the legislature this year. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News join us on the panel to give us a run-down on a whirlwind week at the statehouse.
Thu, 17 Feb 2022
This week on the Idaho Reports podcast, producer Ruth Brown is joined by Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun to discuss the latest bills introduced in the Legislature and how they could change the laws around elections and voting. A number of election bills have been introduced, covering a range from absentee ballot rules to so-called ballot harvesting, when unaffiliated voters can join a political party, use of student IDs, same-day registration, and more.
Sat, 12 Feb 2022
This week, mayors give us their take on the legislature and property taxes. Plus, grocery tax fights! Whether it’s rising property taxes, a shortage of affordable housing, or the weekly grocery bill, the cost of living is high for Idahoans. So what can the legislature do to help? Kelley Packer, Garden City Mayor John Evans and Greenleaf Mayor Bradley Holton discuss property taxes and city budgets. Then, Idaho Housing and Finance Association CEO Gerald Hunter updates us on Idaho’s housing shortage.
Sat, 12 Feb 2022
COVID-19 Update: February 11, 2022 by Idaho Public Television
Thu, 10 Feb 2022
Logan Finney is joined by producer Ruth Brown to discuss the case of Gerald Pizzuto Jr., a man who’s been on Idaho’s death row for more than 35 years. A decision was made in his case late Friday that questioned the constitutionality of the governor’s decision to deny a commutation recommendation that came from the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole. Read more: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2022/02/04/judge-sides-with-pizzuto-over-commutation-denial/ Update: the attorney general’s office on Wednesday appealed the decision to the Idaho Supreme Court. https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/crime/article258251090.html#eId=1136c1c1-5929-49d6-b861-1d3da64db469
Sat, 05 Feb 2022
The income tax bill is over the finish line, but big questions still remain on what the legislature will do about property taxes, and whether it will be enough to provide relief for Idahoans. This week, Ruth Brown interviews Rep. Brandon Mitchell on his experiences with the foster care system, and what he thinks Idaho can do to help recruit and retain more foster parents. Then, Gooding County Assessor Justin Baldwin and Shoshone County Assessor Jerry White join Melissa Davlin to discuss Idaho’s rising property taxes.
Sat, 05 Feb 2022
On Monday, Gov. Brad Little activated the Idaho National Guard to assist with staffing shortages due to COVID-19 at Primary Health Medical Group and the Idaho Department of Correction. This is the fourth time the guard has been activated in Idaho to assist with COVID-related issues. Little’s decision came as three of southern Idaho’s public health districts remain under crisis standards of care. The declaration, which spans across 18 counties, was largely due to a critical shortage of healthcare staff, as well as blood products used for transfusions and certain treatments. This week, the statewide COVID test positivity rate dropped modestly, down to 34 percent from last week’s 39 percent. Pediatric hospitalizations are on the rise this week, and Idaho recorded its second pediatric death due to COVID-19.
Thu, 03 Feb 2022
This week, producer Ruth Brown is joined by director Rakesh Mohan and senior evaluator Casey Petti from the Office of Performance Evaluation. Petti presented a report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Monday outlining the conditions and funding mechanisms of K-12 public school buildings in Idaho. They dive into the report's findings, the history of school building funds, local reliance on bonds and levies, and OPE's policy recommendations for lawmakers. Visit https://legislature.idaho.gov/ope/reports/r2107 to read the full report.
Sat, 29 Jan 2022
The legislature’s joint budget committee heard budget requests and presentations from Idaho’s higher education institutes this week. President Gordon Jones of College of Western Idaho and President Cynthia Pemberton of Lewis-Clark State College join Melissa Davlin to discuss staff retention and student outcomes in higher education. They also talk about career technical education, and the future of education in Idaho.
Sat, 29 Jan 2022
Two years into the pandemic, how are Idaho’s public colleges and universities faring? Presidents Gordon Jones of College of Western Idaho and Cynthia Pemberton of Lewis-Clark State College discuss staff retention and student outcomes in higher education. The Department of Health and Welfare reactivated crisis standards of care for three public health districts. Associate producer Logan Finney gives us an update on the Supreme Court decision on Idaho’s legislative redistricting map.
Sat, 29 Jan 2022
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reactivated crisis standards of care for three of southern Idaho’s public health districts due to a critical shortage of healthcare staff, as well as blood products used for transfusions and certain treatments. The affected health districts include Southwest Public Health, Central District Health, and South Central Public Health. IDHW says the rest of the state may fall under crisis standards of care if trends don’t soon change. Idaho continues to break daily case count records, with thousands of new cases recorded every day, and more than 40,000 backlogged positive laboratory results that haven’t yet been logged. Hospitalizations continue to rise, including among pediatric patients. The state’s test positivity rate is at 38 percent, with East Idaho Public Health District reporting a positivity rate near 50 percent.
Thu, 27 Jan 2022
This week, Dr. Walter Kelley, medical officer for the American Red Cross Lewis and Clark and Arizona regions, joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the emergency blood shortage affecting Idaho and the rest of the nation. That blood shortage is a key reason the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare re-activated crisis standards of care for three public health districts in southwestern Idaho on Monday. This activation is different than the delta-driven surge in the fall, when hospital capacity was a key factor. Hospitalizations are rising, but what’s putting so much strain on the healthcare system is the combination of the blood shortage and healthcare workers getting sick with the omicron COVID-19 variant.
Sat, 22 Jan 2022
This week, Ruth Brown is joined by Reps. Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls, and Sally Toone, D-Gooding, for a discussion on education content standards and the prospect of all-day kindergarten. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins Logan Finney to break down the budgets and the debates.
Sat, 22 Jan 2022
On Thursday, the statewide test positivity rate climbed to a record-breaking 34.1 percent, meaning that one in every three COVID tests came back positive last week. Public health officials’ goal is to keep that positivity rate below 5 percent. Eastern Idaho Public Health District had the highest infection rate this week, coming in at 44.7 percent. In Madison County, the positivity rate exceeded 58 percent. On Tuesday, Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen said he believes it’s likely that hospitals may be forced back into crisis standards of care soon due to increasing numbers of healthcare workers out of work due to illness. Hospitalizations also increased this week. The state reports there are at least 33,500 positive tests backlogged in the public health districts. As of Thursday, 4,317 Idahoans had died of COVID-19.
Thu, 20 Jan 2022
For the first time in more than a decade, with the support of the governor, the Idaho Department of Correction is asking lawmakers for funding to build a new prison. On Tuesday, IDOC Director Josh Tewalt pitched his $333 million budget request to the Joint Finance Appropriation Committee, outlining some of the department’s greatest needs. Those requests included $112.4 million for a new 848-bed minimum custody women’s prison at the Idaho Department of Correction complex in Kuna. Logan Finney and Ruth Brown discuss the IDOC budget request and the need for more prison bed space. Then, Rachel Cohen of Boise State Public Radio joins Ruth to discuss a recent report that revealed Idaho has the highest female incarceration rate in the country. Read Ruth Brown's coverage on the blog: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2022/01/18/idaho-department-of-correction-hopes-to-build-new-womens-prison/ Read Rachel Cohen's coverage at Boise State Public Radio: https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2022-01-13/idaho-has-the-highest-female-incarceration-rate-in-the-country Learn more about ACEs, or adverse childhood experiences: https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/specials/resilience/
Sat, 15 Jan 2022
It's the first week back at the statehouse, and lawmakers are already pushing for big income tax cuts. House Speaker Scott Bedke and Assistant Minority Leader Lauren Necochea join Logan Finney to discuss tax policy priorities and the start of the 2022 legislative session. Meanwhile, the omicron variant of COVID-19 is spreading rapidly across the state. Read more about HB 436 on the blog: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2022/01/12/tax-relief-bill-introduced-in-house-committee
Sat, 15 Jan 2022
Currently, public health districts across the state are overwhelmed with positive coronavirus cases, driven by the highly transmissible omicron variant. As of Thursday afternoon, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported a backlog of almost 18,000 positive laboratory results that hadn’t yet been processed. That’s in addition to the thousands of positive cases the state officially recorded this week. The statewide test positivity rate broke an all-time record high last week, at 25.7 percent. That rate varies by region, with 27 percent in north Idaho’s Panhandle Health District, 26 percent in Central District Health, and 31 percent in Eastern Idaho Public Health District. No district in the state fell below 18 percent. Hospitalizations are also going up, though not as rapidly. This week, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen warned that hospitals could soon see a return to crisis standards of care, due to a combination of the rise in cases and so many healthcare workers calling in sick.
Thu, 13 Jan 2022
Logan Finney is joined by Kelcie Moseley-Morris of the Idaho Capital Sun to discuss issues within Idaho's child welfare system, including a shortage of social workers and foster families, and what's being considered to reform the system.
Tue, 11 Jan 2022
Governor Brad Little lays out his priorities for the 2022 legislative session, with focuses on education and infrastructure investments. Melissa Davlin then breaks down the proposals with pundits Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, Dr. Stephanie DeWitt of Boise State University and Alex Adams of the Division of Financial Management.
Sat, 08 Jan 2022
Gov. Brad Little and legislative leadership give us a preview of what we might see during the first few weeks of the 2022 legislative session. And no surprise: Taxes, education, and transportation are at the top of the list. Then, Senators Lori Den Hartog and Melissa Wintrow join Melissa Davlin to discuss their priorities for the upcoming session.
Sat, 08 Jan 2022
Treasure Valley hospital officials told reporters on Thursday they’re preparing for another surge driven by the highly transmissible omicron variant. Idaho has seen a slight increase in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, as well as an increase in ICU admissions. The state positivity rate has risen to 17 percent, up from 8.6 the previous week. That’s the fastest one-week rise on record in the pandemic. That varies by district, with 19.5 percent in southern Idaho’s public health district 4, and 10.6 in southeastern Idaho. Just before Christmas, the state deactivated crisis standards of care for the Panhandle Health District, the final remaining district that was still operating under crisis standards. The counties with the highest seven day rolling average case rates are Blaine, Teton, Bonneville, Madison and Franklin.
Wed, 05 Jan 2022
This week producer Ruth Brown is joined by Rebecca Boone of the Associated Press to discuss the death penalty in Idaho. On Friday, Gov. Brad Little the commutation recommendation issued for Gerald Pizzuto Jr., who has been on death row for more than 35 years for two murders. The Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole voted 4-3 to recommend life without parole for Pizzuto, but the governor denied the move. Should the state move forward, this will be the first execution in Idaho in nearly 10 years. The last executions conducted in Idaho were those of Paul Ezra Rhoades in November 2011 and Richard Leavitt in June 2012. The only form of execution allowed in Idaho is death by lethal injection. Read more Idaho Reports death penalty coverage: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/category/justice/deathpenalty This podcast’s conversation was recorded the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 4. On Jan. 5, a hearing was scheduled by Idaho District Judge Jay Gaskill in Mr. Pizzuto’s case. Pizzuto’s next court hearing before Judge Gaskill is scheduled for 3 p.m. Jan. 20. As of roughly 10:30 a.m., Jan. 5, a new death warrant has not been issued for Mr. Pizzuto and he remains in IDOC custody.
Wed, 22 Dec 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced it has deactivated crisis standards of care for the Panhandle Health District, meaning the entire state is no longer operating under crisis standards of care. You can visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports for more details. While you’re there, sign up for our newsletter to get weekly Friday news roundups delivered straight to your inbox. We’re off the air until January to celebrate the holidays. You can stream our TV episodes any time on our website, or download the PBS app. Thanks again for listening, and have a happy and safe holiday season. Idaho Reports returns on Friday, January 7th to preview the 2022 legislative session.
Sat, 18 Dec 2021
This week on Idaho Reports, Ruth Brown speaks with Deputy Attorney General Brett DeLange and Idaho Department of Health and Welfare substance abuse program manager Rosie Andueza about what recent nationwide opioid settlements mean for Idaho. Then, University of Idaho McClure Center director Dr. Katherine Himes tells Logan Finney about a new report on climate change and the state's economy.
Sat, 18 Dec 2021
The state has recorded 1,000 COVID-19 deaths in long term care facilities, meaning that roughly one in every four documented COVID deaths in Idaho has occurred in assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes. Because of high vaccination rates in older Idahoans, the mortality rate in these facilities has decreased by half since last year, when vaccines weren’t available. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare stresses the need for boosters in adults of all ages. The test positivity rate has dropped slightly to 6.5 percent, from 7.3 percent last week. That varies by region, ranging from 11.1 percent in East Idaho Public Health District to 5.3 percent in Central District Health. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions have plateaued statewide, though are still higher than public health officials would like to see. The Panhandle Health District remains under crisis standards of care.
Thu, 16 Dec 2021
Logan Finney is joined by Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News to discuss recent issues facing North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. The school is facing an accreditation review in January following local complaints against members of the NIC Board of Trustees. Finney and Richert review the clash between rival trustee factions, the Idaho State Board of Education weighing in, and what it could all mean for students if the school loses its accreditation.
Sat, 11 Dec 2021
This week, Idaho surpassed 4,000 recorded deaths due to COVID-19. Producer Ruth Brown sits down with Rep. Brent Crane to discuss changes to House ethics rules after a contentious year at the Idaho Legislature. Then, Idaho Fish and Game Director Ed Schriever joins Melissa Davlin to discuss the discovery of chronic wasting disease in Idaho, and how it may affect hunting policy in the coming years.
Sat, 11 Dec 2021
December 10, 2021, Weekly Idaho Coronavirus Update | #IdahoCOVID19 Central District Health has announced it has detected the state’s first case of the highly transmissible omicron variant. The health district detected the case in an Ada County resident who recently traveled out of the state. The patient is older than 50, is fully vaccinated, and has experienced mild symptoms. Currently, all adults are eligible to get booster shots, which are recommended to slow the spread and severity of both the Delta and Omicron variants. On Wednesday, Idaho surpassed 4,000 recorded deaths due to COVID-19. The state hit 3,000 deaths on Sept. 28, meaning the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare recorded 1,000 additional COVID deaths in just 72 days. In comparison, it took 263 days for Idaho to hit its first 1,000 deaths. Statewide, the test positivity rate rose slightly to 7.1 percent, from 6.9 percent. This comes after weeks of falling rates, and may be due at least in part to Thanksgiving gatherings in late November. The positivity rate continues to vary by region, with 11.8 percent in East Idaho Public Health District, and 5.6 in Central District Health. Hospitalizations have stayed roughly steady, and statewide ICU admissions are dropping slightly. The Panhandle Health District remains under crisis standards of care.
Thu, 09 Dec 2021
After two high profile hearings in 2021, the Idaho Legislature's Committee on Ethics and House Policy met this week to discuss possible changes to their role and processes under House Rule 45. On Wednesday, Ruth Brown talked more in-depth about those details with committee member Rep. Brent Crane, R-Nampa. Read more on the blog: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/12/07/ethics-committee-weighs-changes-to-hearing-policy-transparency/
Sat, 04 Dec 2021
Idaho’s on track to hit a $1.6 billion surplus, and there are a lot of eyes on that money. This week, Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra joins Melissa Davlin to discuss staff shortages and her 2022 legislative priorities. Then, Miguel Legarreta, president of the Associated Taxpayers of Idaho, talks about his organization’s 2021 conference and what we might see from the upcoming legislative session.
Sat, 04 Dec 2021
Cases and hospitalizations continue to fall throughout most of the state. While epidemiologists nationwide are watching for signs of the omicron variant of COVID-19 spreading in the United States, as of Friday afternoon, no cases of the highly transmissible variant had been reported in Idaho. Statewide, the test positivity rate is at 7 percent. That varies by region, with 5.4 percent in Public Health District Four, and 10 percent in the Panhandle Health District. Currently, the Panhandle Health District is the only part of the state still under crisis standards of care. The five counties with the highest seven day moving average case rates are Benewah, Lincoln, Lewis, Franklin, and Shoshone. Nearly 20,000 Idaho children between the ages of 5 and 11 have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. 57 percent of Idahoans ages 12 and older are fully vaccinated. Currently, all adults are eligible to get booster shots, which are recommended to slow the spread and severity of both the Delta and Omicron variants.
Fri, 03 Dec 2021
Lawmakers and lobbyists regard the Associated Taxpayers of Idaho conference, held each year at the beginning of December, as the unofficial start of the legislative season. Logan Finney attended the conference for Idaho Reports and sat down with Ruth Brown to break down the discussions around Idaho tax policy and what we might expect in the 2022 legislative session. Read more on the blog about Gov. Little's look ahead to 2022: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/12/01/little-gives-brief-glimpse-at-2022-priorities-at-wednesday-speech/
Sat, 27 Nov 2021
This week, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare deactivated crisis standards of care for six of Idaho’s seven health districts, thanks to decreasing hospitalizations and test positivity rates. Only the Panhandle Health District remains under crisis standards of care, due to a large number of cases and hospitalizations, particularly in Bonner County. Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen said hospitals are still stressed, and most are working under contingency standards of care. Jeppesen urged Idahoans to continue wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and to choose to get vaccinated. Currently, Benewah, Bonner, Lincoln, Butte, and Clark counties have the highest seven day rolling average case rates. COVID hospitalizations and ICU admissions are now at the same levels they were in early August. Fifty nine percent of Idahoans ages 18 and older are fully vaccinated. About 15,000 Idaho children ages 5-11 have now received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
Fri, 26 Nov 2021
The Idaho Supreme Court said that parents who sued over fees for full day kindergarten have standing in that lawsuit. Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press discuss early childhood education and the latest election news. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced it has deactivated crisis standards of care in six of the state’s seven health districts.
Thu, 25 Nov 2021
The Idaho Reports podcast is taking a break from our Wednesday episode this week to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. On Tuesday, we recorded a conversation with our pundits, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News for our Friday broadcast show on early childhood education, election news, and the state deactivating crisis standards of care. You can watch the full show Friday night at 8 on Idaho Public Television, or listen here on the podcast feed. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday.
Sat, 20 Nov 2021
This week, the Idaho Legislature returned to the statehouse in Boise after an already extraordinarily long legislative session this spring. The House was back with a lot on their minds, but with some push back from the Senate. The action started Monday morning when lawmakers introduced 36 pieces of legislation, just one of which made it across the finish line. Plus, the latest legal challenge to the redistricting commission’s legislative map.
Sat, 20 Nov 2021
This week, the Idaho Legislature attempted to pass several bills regarding vaccine mandates and masking requirements, but all failed to pass the Senate. Extensive misinformation was shared in the statehouse this week, but the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare continues to provide accurate information on the state’s current health crisis at coronavirus.idaho.gov. The statewide test positivity rate dropped to 7.2%, down from 9% last week. That’s still above the state’s goal of keeping the rate below 5%. But some counties, such as Madison County, still report test positivity rates as high as 14.3%. As of Thursday, 10,056 children between the ages of 5 and 11 in Idaho have received their first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Idaho’s vaccination rates continue to lag behind national numbers. Nationwide, 81.7 percent of adults ages 18 and older have received at least one dose. In Idaho, that number is just 64.5 percent. Visit the Idaho Reports blog for the latest information on how Idaho plans to address President Biden’s recent vaccination and testing executive orders.
Thu, 18 Nov 2021
On Monday, the legislature reconvened to consider bills opposing vaccine and testing mandates from the Biden administration, as well as other proposals relating to COVID-19 and public health measures. Both chambers adjourned sine die Wednesday afternoon, when Melissa Davlin, Ruth Brown and Logan Finney sat down to review the end of the 2021 legislative session. Plus, the latest legal challenge to Idaho's redistricting plan. Visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports for more.
Wed, 17 Nov 2021
Commission for Reapportionment co-chairs Bart Davis and Dan Schmidt discuss the new legislative and congressional district maps, as well as criticisms the commission has faced. On Wednesday, Nov. 10, the redistricting commission held its final meeting to approve electoral maps and a final report. The commissioners finished their work before the legal deadline at the end of the month, and now the maps face likely legal challenges before eventually coming into play in the spring 2022 primaries.
Wed, 17 Nov 2021
Rudy Soto, chairman of the Idaho Democratic Party’s Native American Democrats Caucus, outlines his concerns with the state’s redistricting process and what the new maps mean for minority representation across the state. On Wednesday, Nov. 10, the redistricting commission held its final meeting to approve electoral maps and a final report. The commissioners finished their work before the legal deadline at the end of the month, and now the maps face likely legal challenges before eventually coming into play in the spring 2022 primaries.
Sat, 13 Nov 2021
This week, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare officials confirmed the first pediatric death from COVID-19 in Idaho. The infant lived in southwest Idaho, was younger than a year old, and passed away in October. The department didn’t release any other details to protect the family’s privacy. The news comes as COVID cases and hospitalizations are dropping statewide, with ICU admissions now at levels Idaho hasn’t seen since August. Those numbers are still higher than officials would like to see, but they’re trending in the right direction. Currently, the counties with the highest 7-day rolling average case rates are Benewah, Bonneville, Madison, Lewis, and Bonner counties. As of Friday, 4,701 children between the ages of 5 and 11 have received their first dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine. Idaho’s vaccination rates continue to lag behind national numbers. Nationwide, 80 percent of adults ages 18 and older have received at least one dose. In Idaho, that number is just 64 percent.
Fri, 12 Nov 2021
Lawmakers are ready to return to Boise, but what they will accomplish is anyone’s guess. This week, redistricting commission co-chairs Bart Davis and Dan Schmidt discuss challenges in creating the new electoral district maps. Rudy Soto outlines his concerns with minority representation under the new redistricting plan. Finally, House Speaker Scott Bedke, House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, and Senate Pro Tem Chuck Winder join us for a preview of the legislature’s return next week.
Wed, 10 Nov 2021
On Wednesday, Nov. 10, the redistricting commission held its final meeting to approve electoral maps and a final report. The commissioners finished their work before the legal deadline at the end of the month, and now the maps face likely legal challenges before eventually coming into play in the spring 2022 primaries. Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun joins Logan Finney to break down the process and what happens next.
Sat, 06 Nov 2021
This week the CDC gave its final approval for emergency use authorization of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11 years old. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare urges parents to consider the vaccine, saying it is both safe and effective. The children’s vaccine is available at your Idaho public health districts, or visit www.vaccines.gov to find a vaccine near you. The statewide test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, has dropped to 10.3 percent, down from this surge’s high of 17 percent. That’s the lowest that number has been since the beginning of August. Public health officials aim to keep the rate below 5%. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions continue to drop, but some hospitals in Idaho continue to operate under crisis standards of care, meaning there are more patients in need than there are resources to help everyone. On Nov. 4, the state reported that there were 19 available ICU beds statewide. As of Thursday, 3,629 Idahoans have died of COVID-19 related causes.
Fri, 05 Nov 2021
This week, producer Logan Finney explores the impact of local option sales tax on Idaho resort towns, and why other Idaho cities wish they had that option. Then, Dr. Jaclyn Kettler of Boise State University and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News give us a run-down of Tuesday’s election results, and whether we can draw any statewide conclusions from them.
Thu, 04 Nov 2021
Producer Ruth Brown is joined by University of Idaho College of Law Professor Shaakirrah Sanders to discuss the state’s recent decision to challenge President Biden’s executive order on vaccines. The state of Idaho has joined multiple other states in the lawsuit, led by Georgia, which challenges an executive order that would require employees of federal contractors be fully vaccinated by December 8, 2021, with few exceptions. The State Board of Education is also party to the lawsuit on behalf of Idaho universities. Sanders applies constitutional principles around executive authority, states' rights, and federal contracting to examine the issue.
Sat, 30 Oct 2021
It’s the start of our fiftieth season! Idaho Reports started in 1972 as a live program called “Statehouse Report” that was broadcast directly from the capitol in Boise. Over the coming months, we’ll be taking a look back at some of the highlights from the last five decades, while bringing you the latest Idaho political news on taxes, healthcare policy, education and more. This week, producer Ruth Brown explores a shortage of juvenile mental health care in rural north central Idaho. Dr. Chris Yates of Idaho State University's Department of Counseling discusses what they are doing to address those shortages, and what the state can do to help. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discusses vaccine mandates and the potential impact of next week’s school district elections. Watch the broadcast show Friday nights at 8pm on Idaho Public Television. Stream it online at www.idahoptv.org/idahoreports or on the PBS app.
Sat, 30 Oct 2021
On Friday, the FDA authorized COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 5 to 11. The CDC must still give the final approval before pediatricians can begin administering those shots, but that approval may come as soon as next week. The statewide test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, has dropped to 11.5 percent, down from this surge’s high of 17 percent. That’s the lowest that number has been since the beginning of August. Public health officials would like to see the percentage drop to 5 percent or lower. Still, north Idaho continues to see much higher levels of community spread, with a test positivity rate of 19.2 percent. Those rates are especially high in Boundary, Shoshone, and Bonner counties. In southern Idaho, Bonneville and Jefferson counties have the highest seven day rolling average case rates. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions continue to drop, though are still higher than they were at the peak of last December’s surge. A number of Idaho hospitals continue to operate under crisis standards of care, meaning higher nurse to patient ratios and cancelled procedures.
Thu, 28 Oct 2021
This week, Ruth Brown is joined by Idaho Press reporter Betsy Russell to discuss a recent allocation of funding by the Constitutional Defense Council. The council met Monday and approved the payment of nearly $152,000 for Reclaim Idaho’s legal fees after the state lost a lawsuit over a 2021 ballot initiative bill. The Idaho Supreme Court shot down the legislation, but also ordered the state to pay the legal bills of the plaintiffs. Read Ruth Brown's coverage: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/10/25/legal-fees-over-ballot-initiative-bill-will-cost-taxpayers-150000/ Listen to our past conversation with Betsy Russell about the case: https://soundcloud.com/idaho-reports/episode-supreme-court-overturns-initiative-law
Sat, 23 Oct 2021
The statewide test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, has dropped to about 12 percent, down from this surge’s high of 17 percent. That’s still higher than what public health officials would like to see, but this is the fifth week in a row those numbers have dropped. Hospitalizations have also dropped from a late September peak, though the number of patients currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 is still much higher than it was during last December’s surge. Some hospitals across the state continue to operate under crisis standards of care, and fully staffed adult ICU beds are still limited, with 15 or fewer available daily over the last week. North Idaho has the highest concentration of COVID cases right now, with public health district one reporting a test positivity rate of 20 percent. Currently, Boundary, Lewis, Power, Shoshone and Kootenai counties are reporting the highest seven-day rolling average case rates. This week, Idaho Reports spoke to a Nampa mother about her toddler’s fight against a nearly fatal COVID-19 infection. Visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports to read her story.
Thu, 21 Oct 2021
As Idaho sits on a nearly billion-dollar budget surplus, Melissa Davlin sits down with Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun and Ruth Brown of Idaho Reports to break down what happened — and what didn't happen — at the first day of the annual Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee interim budget meeting. Read Ruth's coverage: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/10/19/idaho-state-budgeting-committee-meets-surplus-nears-1-billion/
Sat, 16 Oct 2021
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is asking Idahoans to answer an anonymous survey about how the pandemic has impacted their life and mental health. The survey is open through Oct. 31 and can be found online at coronavirus.idaho.gov/behavioral-health. Some hospitals in Idaho continue to use crisis standards of care, as unvaccinated COVID-19 patients flood hospital beds. Statewide, on Thursday, there were only 15 open ICU beds for new patients. There have been no pediatric deaths due to COVID-19, as of Thursday, but there have been pediatric hospitalizations and serious illness due to the virus. Case positivity rates have dropped modestly, down to 13.2 percent, but that’s still well above the goal of keeping the rate below 5 percent. State health officials continue to stress that the best way to prevent hospitalization due to COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. Vaccinated people are 4 times less likely than unvaccinated people to contract the virus and if they do, they are 5 times less likely to need hospitalization, according to Central District Health on Thursday. Visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports to see our latest updates on COVID-19.
Thu, 14 Oct 2021
This week, producer Ruth Brown is joined by Audrey Dutton of the Idaho Capital Sun to discuss a complaint about the newest member of Central District Health’s board of health, Dr. Ryan Cole. Read Audrey's article here: https://idahocapitalsun.com/2021/10/11/it-should-be-stopped-idaho-medical-group-files-complaint-against-dr-ryan-cole/
Sat, 09 Oct 2021
The month of September marked a grim milestone with more coronavirus deaths in one month than any other month in the pandemic. The state of Idaho has now reported more than 3,000 coronavirus deaths statewide. In north-central Idaho, hospitals are reaching a breaking point. In Moscow, Gritman Medical Center’s COVID-19 patient care unit is at capacity, with the largest number of people with COVID-19 being admitted for inpatient treatment, the hospital announced Thursday. On Wednesday, Kootenai Health was reporting 150 COVID-19 patients hospitalized with 43 in critical care and 2 pediatric COVID patients. No Idaho child has died of causes related to COVID-19 as of Thursday, but there have been children with serious illness due to the virus. Case positivity rates have dropped modestly, down to 14.6 percent, but that’s still well above the goal of keeping the rate below 5 percent. State health officials continue to stress that the best way to prevent hospitalization due to COVID is to be vaccinated. Visit the Idaho Reports blog at idahoptv.org/idahoreports to see our latest update on the costs of transfers to other states for medical care amid a hospital bed shortage.
Thu, 07 Oct 2021
This week, our producer Ruth Brown sat down Tuesday morning with reporter Ryan Suppe of the Idaho Press to discuss labor shortages across Idaho and how the pandemic has impacted those in the workforce. Then, Ruth and Logan Finney looked at workforce issues in specific sectors of state government. But first, on Tuesday, Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin wasted no time exercising her temporary gubernatorial authority, issuing an executive order banning state agencies from requiring COVID testing and vaccines. She also contacted the Idaho National Guard to ask about deploying them to the US Mexico border -- a query that Major General Michael Garshak turned down, as no request for National Guard assistance had been submitted. McGeachin is acting governor while Gov. Brad Little is visiting the US Mexico border. Little said Tuesday he would immediately rescind all actions taken by McGeachin upon his return. For more, visit the Idaho Reports blog. Visit idahoptv.org/idahoreports to find the link.
Sat, 02 Oct 2021
COVID-related hospitalizations in Idaho continue to hit abnormal highs with hospitals operating under crisis care standards. On Thursday, 53 people were reported dead in one day due to COVID, setting a new single-day record, and the statewide death toll is now at more than 2,900 people. State officials continue to stress that the number of child infections is increasing. Weekly case counts are now increasing more rapidly in kids than case counts in adults, according to the Department of Health and Welfare. Nearly 1,700 cases were reported last week in children, most school districts in Idaho do not have mask mandates, and there has been an increase in pediatric hospitalizations due to the virus. No Idaho child has died of causes related to COVID-19 as of Thursday, but there have been children with serious illness due to the virus. Case positivity rates have dropped modestly, down to 15.4 percent, but that’s still well above the goal of keeping it below 5 percent. See our full coverage online and watch the latest episode at www.idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Thu, 30 Sep 2021
This week, School Safety and Security Program Manager Mike Munger joins producer Ruth Brown to discuss a post-incident review report on the May 6 shooting at Rigby Middle School, which covers lessons learned from the incident and safety recommendations for all Idaho schools. The 11-page report can be found here: https://schoolsafety.dbs.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/106/2021/09/Rigby-MS-Lessons-Learned-Final-Release-Copy.pdf
Sat, 25 Sep 2021
In this half-hour special on the ripple effects of crisis standards of care, hear how the surge in COVID patients is affecting the regional trauma center and emergency department at Saint Alphonsus, and get a glimpse behind-the-scenes on the coordination it takes to transport and find beds for rural patients across Idaho.
Sat, 25 Sep 2021
COVID-related hospitalizations in Idaho continue to reach record highs, with 760 patients hospitalized on Monday and more than 200 in the ICU. Additionally, more Idaho patients were ventilated this week than at any previous point in the pandemic, according to Idaho Department of Health and Welfare director Dave Jeppesen. Dr. Jim Souza, chief physician executive at St. Luke’s Health System, said patients in the St. Luke’s ICU have a higher mortality rate than during the December surge, with 43 percent dying after being admitted. Idaho has once again added more than 100 newly recorded deaths in the last week, including multiple people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. The areas of the state with the highest seven-day rolling average case rates are north central, Magic Valley, and east central Idaho. On Wednesday, Idaho Reports toured the Saint Alphonsus ICU in Boise, as well as the emergency department, trauma center, and Life Flight center. See our full coverage online and watch the episode at idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Thu, 23 Sep 2021
This week, Keith Ridler of the Associated Press joined Logan Finney to discuss a central Idaho grazing lease that was purchased by a conservation group and approved by the Land Board this week. But first, the COVID-19 surge continues to flood Idaho hospitals. Idaho Reports is airing a half-hour special Friday on the implications of crisis standards of care, with an inside look at how Saint Alphonsus Health System is accommodating the surge in COVID-19 patients as hospitals across the state are overwhelmed. “Idaho Reports: A Statewide Disaster” airs Friday night at 8 pm in both the Mountain and Pacific time zones on Idaho Public Television.
Sat, 18 Sep 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced it had activated crisis standards of care statewide as hospitals in southwest and south central Idaho became overrun with COVID-19 patients, nearly all of whom are unvaccinated. The crisis standards of care designation allows hospitals to operate with higher nurse-to-patient ratios and helps providers prioritize which patients receive limited resources, depending on how ill they are, and their chances of survival. It also means that some patients are being treated in makeshift patient care centers set up in classrooms or conference rooms. Crisis standards have been in place for north Idaho since Sept. 6. Idaho added more than 100 deaths to its statewide death toll in the last 3 days, though at least 30 of those occurred over the summer and are just now being added. While ICU bed availability varies hour by hour, as patients are admitted, discharged, or die, at multiple times over the last week, there were fewer than 10 fully staffed ICU beds available in the entire state of Idaho. We have more information on a special episode of the Idaho Reports Podcast, which you can find and subscribe to on all major podcast platforms.
Fri, 17 Sep 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced it had activated crisis standards of care statewide as hospitals in southwest and south central Idaho became overrun with COVID-19 patients, nearly all of whom are unvaccinated. Crisis standards for north Idaho have been in place since Sept. 6. The crisis standards of care designation allows hospitals to operate with higher nurse-to-patient ratios and helps providers prioritize which patients receive limited resources, depending on how ill they are, and their chances of survival. It also means that some patients are being treated in makeshift patient care centers set up in classrooms or conference rooms. This affects all patients seeking care, not just those infected with COVID. While ICU bed availability varies hour by hour, as patients are admitted, discharged, or die, at multiple times over the last week, there were fewer than 10 fully staffed ICU beds available in the entire state of Idaho.
Thu, 16 Sep 2021
This week, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press joins Melissa Davlin to discuss President Joe Biden's trip to Idaho where he visited the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise. They discuss the roundtable discussion with officials at NIFC, issues of transparency and media access, and the politics surrounding the event.
Tue, 14 Sep 2021
In this live special, Idaho Reports brings you up to speed as crisis standards of care have been declared for hospitals in the panhandle and north central Idaho. We are joined by healthcare representatives from across the state to discuss the statewide hospital crisis caused by surging COVID-19 cases in unvaccinated patients, and what that means for all Idaho patients in need of care.
Sat, 11 Sep 2021
Ten hospitals in north central Idaho and the panhandle have been authorized to operate under crisis standards of care since Monday, when Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene asked the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare for the designation after weeks of being overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. The crisis standards of care designation allows hospitals to operate with higher nurse-to-patient ratios and helps providers determine the order in which patients get limited resources. It also means that some patients are being treated in makeshift patient care centers set up in classrooms or conference rooms. On Thursday, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen told Idaho Reports that the rest of the state could see crisis standards of care very soon. Doctors from hospitals around the state told Idaho Reports they continue to see a wave of COVID-19 patients, most of them unvaccinated, and it is affecting their ability to care for other patients. If you missed our half-hour special, The Consequences of Crisis Care, you can catch it online at idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Thu, 09 Sep 2021
This week, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News joins us to discuss how the spread of the Delta variant has shaped the beginning of the fall semester for K-12 students in Idaho. But first, on Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced it had declared crisis standards of care for north Idaho, as mostly unvaccinated patients have overwhelmed hospitals. The declaration affects ten hospitals from Grangeville to the Canadian border. We’ll have more on Thursday, when Idaho Reports is airing a half-hour special on the consequences of crisis standards of care, airing at 8 pm in both the Mountain and Pacific Time Zones on Idaho Public Television. You can also catch it online after it airs at idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Sat, 04 Sep 2021
Hospital officials continue to implore Idahoans to get vaccinated as healthcare facilities are overwhelmed with unvaccinated COVID-19 patients. Staffing is stretched thin in hospitals throughout the state, and in the last week, the state has recorded more than 50 COVID-19 deaths, including multiple patients in their 20s, 30s and 40s. Nearly every ICU patient in Idaho is unvaccinated. But vaccine uptake is slowly rising, and this week, Idaho surpassed 1.5 million administered doses of the vaccine. 49 percent of eligible Idahoans ages 12 and older are fully vaccinated. Currently, the highest seven-day rolling average case rates are in north central Idaho, southwest Idaho, and Magic Valley. The statewide test positivity rate has risen to 14.2 percent. On Thursday, Idaho Reports is airing a second special on the statewide hospital crisis. The program will feature hospital representatives from around the state, and airs at 8 pm September 9th on Idaho Public Television.
Thu, 02 Sep 2021
This week, Logan Finney sat down with Idaho Capital Sun reporter Clark Corbin to preview the redistricting process that kicks off this week to draw new legislative and congressional district maps for future elections. But first, on Tuesday Gov. Brad Little announced the activation of up to 150 Idaho National Guard members to support health care facilities across the state, as hospitals are filled beyond capacity with unvaccinated COVID-19 patients. You can find more details, and Little’s full speech, on the Idaho Reports blog. On Thursday, September 9th, we’ll have a live special on “The Consequences of Crisis Care” with hospital representatives from around the state to update you on the COVID-19 surge, and the impacts it’s having on the delivery of healthcare services in every region of Idaho. Idaho Reports and the Idaho Capital Sun will follow this week’s redistricting meetings in detail, and future meetings as they’re announced.
Sat, 28 Aug 2021
Hospitals throughout the state continue to see record-breaking numbers of COVID-19 patients, many of whom are ending up in the intensive care units. Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene has converted a classroom to a patient care space, and could request the state to declare crisis standards of care within the next few days. Crisis standards of care are declared by the state only when a region’s healthcare system is depleted to the point where it cannot transfer patients elsewhere, nor can it provide healthcare services at a normal level. Other hospitals throughout Idaho say they may hit that point in the next couple of weeks. Nearly every ICU patient in Idaho is unvaccinated. Statewide, just 0.4 percent of vaccinated people have reported breakthrough cases, according to data from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Currently, the highest seven-day rolling average case rates are in north central Idaho and Magic Valley. The statewide test positivity rate has risen to 13.2 percent, the highest it’s been since January. If you missed our live Idaho Reports special on the state’s hospital crisis, you can catch it online at www.idahoptv.org/idahoreports. Our next special airs Thursday, September 9th at 8pm on Idaho Public Television.
Fri, 27 Aug 2021
In this Idaho Reports special, we bring you the latest on the statewide hospital crisis caused by the recent surge in COVID-19 cases. We are joined by healthcare representatives from across Idaho, so no matter where you’re listening, you’ll find out what’s happening in your part of the state.
Thu, 26 Aug 2021
The Idaho Supreme Court issued an opinion Monday ruling that a bill passed by the Idaho Legislature on voter ballot initiatives is unconstitutional. The high court found that initiatives and referenda are fundamental rights under the Idaho Constitution, and that the new law was a grave infringement on those rights. Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press joins Ruth Brown to break down the history and unique aspects of the decision.
Sat, 21 Aug 2021
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare officials warned this week that hospitals are close to being overwhelmed by this current COVID-19 surge, which could lead to rationing of health care. To be clear, that could affect everyone seeking medical care in Idaho, not just those with COVID-19. The Division of Public Health warns Idaho is on track to see as many as 30,000 new cases a week by mid-October. Officials say the surge is being driven by unvaccinated Idahoans. Almost every single Idahoan in the ICU because of COVID-19 is unvaccinated. Unvaccinated Idahoans make up more than 98 percent of new cases across the state. Public health officials are imploring Idahoans to get vaccinated. The highest case rates in the state right now are in north central Idaho, in Lewis, Idaho, Clearwater, and Nez Perce Counties. The statewide test positivity rate is up to 12.8 percent. Idaho Reports is airing a live special on the state’s hospital crisis, Thursday night at 8 pm on Idaho Public Television. Tune in to hear the latest on the status of the state’s healthcare systems, and get some answers to questions about COVID-19 vaccines.
Thu, 19 Aug 2021
This week, Ruth Brown is joined by Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen and Administrative Director of Idaho Courts Sara Omundson. They discuss recent recommendations made by the Idaho Behavioral Health Council, existing needs in the state behavioral health system, and what it will take to implement the recommendations moving forward.
Sat, 14 Aug 2021
The current COVID-19 surge has, once again, stressed the state’s hospital system. Two of Idaho’s major hospitals, St. Luke’s in southern Idaho and Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, have postponed non-emergency elective procedures that require overnight stays, and have reassigned nurses to help care for critically ill patients. COVID-19 ICU admissions are now at the same levels they were in November, and Dr. Jim Souza of St. Luke’s said this surge has the potential to be worse than what the state experienced in December, when Idaho came close to having to activate crisis standards of care. On Thursday, Gov. Brad Little implored Idahoans to get vaccinated to ease the strain on hospitals and to help ensure an uninterrupted school year for Idaho students. Since May 15, there have been 13 times as many COVID-19 hospitalizations and ten times as many deaths among unvaccinated people as there were in vaccinated people. The statewide positivity rate has risen to 12.8 percent, and the highest case rates were reported in Clearwater, Nez Perce, Twin Falls, Shoshone and Kootenai counties.
Thu, 12 Aug 2021
Heat, drought and population growth have dominated Idaho headlines this summer. This week, the director of Boise State University's Lab for Ecohydrological Applications and Forecasting (LEAF) Dr. Alejandro "Lejo" Flores joined Melissa Davlin to discuss water's role at the intersection of those topics, ranging from agriculture, housing and land use planning to the future of climate in Idaho. Learn more about LEAF at http://leaf.boisestate.edu
Sat, 07 Aug 2021
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced this week that the Delta variant of COVID-19 is now the most prominent variant in Idaho. Delta is nearly twice as transmissible as the original virus. Primary Health Medical Group reported a test positivity rate of 20% while Saint Alphonsus reported a test positivity rate of 17% on Wednesday. The state’s goal was to be below 5%. With the rise of Delta infections in Idaho, experts say childhood coronavirus infections have substantially increased in the state. Children ages 0 to 4 have seen a 200% increase in the number of infections over the last two weeks. There is not yet a vaccine approved for children younger than 12, and the CDC recently recommended that schools mandate masks be worn regardless of vaccination status. The Boise School District Board of Trustees on Tuesday announced masks would be required for students and staff in the next school year, regardless of vaccination status. Idaho does have COVID-19 vaccine doses widely available and health experts are seeing vaccination rates increase. Idaho just passed the benchmark of 50% of people 12 and older getting at least a first dose.
Thu, 05 Aug 2021
This week, the House Ethics Committee unanimously found that Rep. Priscilla Giddings behaved in a manner unbecoming of a representative, and voted to recommend she be censured by the House and removed from her post on the Commerce and Human Resources Committee. Two complaints asserted that Giddings, R-White Bird, acted inappropriately when she disseminated the identity and photo of an individual who reported sexual assault by former Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger, R-Lewiston, then misrepresented her actions to the Ethics Committee while under oath. Producer Ruth Brown sat down with our reporter Logan Finney to review the hearing, from witness testimony to the recommendation for censure and what it could mean for future legislative sessions. -------------------------------- Watch the committee discussion and outcome: https://youtu.be/ulAV0v1Qk80 Read Logan's coverage on the Idaho Reports blog - 1) What to expect in the Giddings ethics hearing: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/07/30/what-to-expect-in-the-giddings-ethics-hearing/ 2) Giddings combative as lawmakers question conduct: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/08/02/giddings-combative-as-lawmakers-question-conduct/ 3) Committee recommends censure for Giddings ethics violations: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/08/03/committee-recommends-censure-for-giddings-ethics-violations/
Sat, 31 Jul 2021
The state’s positivity rate has climbed to eight percent, and the number of confirmed cases with the Delta variant is now at 70, which is more than twice what it was last week. Every one of the state’s public health districts has seen an increase in the percentage of tests coming back positive, with the north central region seeing the highest positivity rate last week at 12.7 percent. Right now, the counties with the highest incidence rates in the state are Lewis, Adams, Twin Falls, Shoshone, and Boise. The number of patients admitted to the ICU with COVID-19 has more than doubled since the beginning of July, with hospitals reporting 49 patients statewide as of Monday. That number is still half of what it was during the pandemic’s peak in December, but those numbers are continuing to trend up, not down. Dr. Steven Nemerson of Saint Alphonsus told KTVB last week that all of the critically ill patients in his facility are unvaccinated. Currently, just 45.8 percent of Idahoans ages 12 and older are fully vaccinated. That’s compared to a national rate of 57.8 percent.
Thu, 29 Jul 2021
We know that Idahoans ages 18-24 make up 11 percent of Idaho’s population, but people in their late teens and 20s account for the plurality of COVID-19 cases so far during the pandemic, and it isn’t even close. This week, Melissa Davlin discusses efforts to get college students vaccinated with Chris Owens, Associate Vice President of Kasiska Division of Health Sciences at Idaho State University in Pocatello. Then, Alex Adams, administrator for the Idaho Division of Financial Management, joins to discuss Idaho’s record-breaking general fund revenues for fiscal year 2021, and what the state might do with the surplus.
Sat, 24 Jul 2021
In the last two weeks, nearly every COVID metric has worsened in Idaho, matching nationwide trends as the Delta variant spreads throughout the country. On Tuesday, officials with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare told reporters that hospitalizations and new cases continue to increase, and almost every single one of those patients is unvaccinated. ICU admissions have doubled since the beginning of July. The statewide test positivity rate has climbed to 5.7 percent, though some regions are seeing a higher percentage of tests coming back positive. Public Health District 6 in southeastern Idaho has a positivity rate of 8.4 percent, and Eastern Idaho's Public Health District 7 has a positivity rate of 9.9 percent. So far, 30 cases with the highly transmissible Delta variant have been identified in Idaho. State epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn said Tuesday that doesn’t mean the Delta variant isn’t more prevalent in the state, and state laboratories are continuing to ramp up their efforts to sequence more positive samples to identify variants. Currently, 52.2 percent of Idahoans ages 18 and older are at least partially vaccinated. Nationwide, that number is 68.6 percent.
Thu, 22 Jul 2021
Idaho is growing rapidly, and those growing pains aren't confined to Boise and the Treasure Valley. Last week, Logan Finney spoke with Madison Hardy of the Coeur d'Alene Press to get an update on the state of politics in Kootenai County, from a commissioner who's distancing himself from the local Republican party to a study group that's looking into restructuring the government of the state's third most populous county.
Sat, 17 Jul 2021
Don’t expect lawmakers to come back to Boise to prevent employers from requiring vaccinations as a condition of employment. Idaho Senate Republicans announced Friday they would rather work out disagreements without passing new laws, at least for the time being. Last week, three of Idaho’s largest health care providers announced they would require all employees to get vaccinated by this fall. Idaho’s test positivity rate rose again last week, as did the statewide seven day moving average case rate and COVID-related hospitalizations and ICU admissions. While the numbers are still much lower than the highs Idaho saw in December, they follow nationwide trends of rising cases as the highly transmissible Delta variant spreads among mostly unvaccinated people. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has confirmed just nine cases of the Delta variant in Idaho so far. Currently, 51.7 percent of Idahoans ages 18 and older are at least partially vaccinated. Nationwide, that number is 68 percent.
Thu, 15 Jul 2021
Idaho authorities are stressing the need for people to recreate responsibly, as Idaho is already seeing more than double the number of fires than the previous record. “Idaho is experiencing severe drought and unprecedented fire conditions across most of the state,” said Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller. “Extreme fire conditions are at an all-time high and weather forecasts indicate that no relief is in the weeks ahead.” Miller said during a press conference Tuesday at the National Interagency Fire Center that resources are already stretched thin and there is a significant shortage of people needed to fight fire. Portions of the state are under Stage I and Stage II fire restrictions, and fire managers expect to announce additional restrictions in more parts of the state. IDL has an interactive website that displays current restrictions and what they mean: https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/fire-restrictions-finder/ Read more on the Idaho Reports blog: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/07/13/idaho-sees-shortage-of-firefighters-amid-unprecedented-wildfire-conditions/ Watch the full press conference on the Idaho Reports YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Zo9ia3ZLI90
Sat, 10 Jul 2021
Three of Idaho’s largest health care providers announced this week they are requiring employees, volunteers and contractors to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by this fall. In a Friday media call, St. Luke’s President and CEO Chris Roth said nearly 80 percent of St. Luke’s employees are already vaccinated, and with the uptick in cases nationwide related to the Delta variant, hospital leadership felt it was the right time to add the COVID vaccine to the list of required immunizations already in place for hospital employees. The announcements drew criticism from conservative lawmakers across the state. The state’s test positivity rate remains low, but continues to creep up slightly at 3.6 percent. As of Friday morning, six cases of the Delta variant had been recorded in Idaho. Nationwide, the variant accounts for half of new cases recorded in the last week. Nearly 724,000 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. In the last week, providers have administered about 7,400 doses.
Thu, 08 Jul 2021
Last year, Idaho's three branches of government combined their efforts to address mental and behavioral health issues in the state through the formation of the Behavioral Health Council. Last week, they released a strategic action plan outlining recommendations for 2021-2024. Producer Ruth Brown joins Logan Finney to give an overview of the issues under consideration including substance use disorders, youth mental health and adverse childhood experiences, and how the plan might be implemented moving forward. Read Ruth's coverage of the plan on the Idaho Reports blog: https://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org/2021/07/02/behavioral-health-council-set-to-make-recommendations-to-governor-legislators-courts/ Learn more about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in Idaho: https://www.idahoptv.org/resilientidaho/
Thu, 01 Jul 2021
Sunny Shaw, executive director of the Housing Alliance and Community Partnership in Pocatello, sat down with Idaho Reports to talk about the CDC’s eviction moratorium which will expire at the end of July. The moratorium was issued to help slow the pandemic by keeping people in their homes and out of crowded or congregate settings like homeless shelters. Shaw also discussed rental and home affordability, growth, and the need she sees in Idaho for low-income housing funding. People who need rental assistance related to COVID-19 can visit http://www.idahohousing.com for information and applications from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association.
Sat, 26 Jun 2021
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has announced that Idaho’s laboratories will soon be able to test every positive COVID-19 sample for variants. The news comes as the Delta variant continues to spread throughout the nation. So far, Idaho has just one confirmed Delta case, but nationwide, the strain has accounted for 20 percent of new positives in the last week, almost all among unvaccinated people. State epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn said there isn’t evidence of large-scale undetected Delta spread in Idaho, as case counts and test positivity continue to drop. Last week, just 2.9 percent of the state’s tests came back positive. Still, the state wants to be prepared if and when the variant arrives, she said. While half of Idaho’s adults are now at least partially vaccinated, the majority of counties haven’t yet hit the 50 percent threshold, with rural counties in particular lagging behind the state’s metropolitan counties. Rural counties also report the state’s highest death rates due to COVID 19. We have much more information on the Idaho Reports blog. You’ll find the links on the Idaho Reports Facebook and Twitter pages.
Thu, 24 Jun 2021
This week, Idaho Voices for Children director Christine Tiddens joins Melissa Davlin to talk about the new KIDS COUNT Data Book, an annual report that examines child wellbeing state by state. This year's edition explores how families with children fared during the pandemic and broader trends since the Great Recession. "What we've seen is that the number of Idahoans struggling to get by has really sharply increased, due to a variety of factors including the pandemic's really far reaching health and economic impacts," Tiddens said. Davlin and Tiddens discuss the report, with wide-ranging data from educational outcomes and poverty rates to health insurance coverage and teen pregnancy rates, and the economic picture it paints for Idaho families. Tiddens also describes her organization's state and federal policy priorities, and what she thinks can be done to address trends that began long before the pandemic.
Sat, 19 Jun 2021
As of Friday, half of Idaho adults have had at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, and three fourths of Idahoans ages 65 and older have been fully vaccinated. Nearly 703,000 Idahoans ages 12 and older have received at least one dose. The statewide test positivity rate continues to drop, with 3.6 percent of COVID tests coming back positive last week. The seven day moving average incidence rate is down to a new low of 4.4 cases per 100,000 people. Eleven counties reported no new cases in the last week. Lewis County had the highest incidence rate. Ada, Canyon, and Kootenai counties had the highest raw numbers of cases. Variants continue to spread, especially among unvaccinated Idahoans, with the UK variant the most prevalent in the state. This week, Gov. Brad Little announced that state employees can receive four hours of paid time off to get their COVID vaccine, or four hours to use if they’ve already received it. Little encouraged private businesses to offer the same incentives for their employees.
Wed, 16 Jun 2021
This week on the Idaho Reports podcast, producer Ruth Brown sits down with Reclaim Idaho co-founder Luke Mayville to discuss his organization's new education funding initiative and their lawsuit against the state over increased ballot initiative requirements. Visit the Idaho Reports blog at http://blog.idahoreports.idahoptv.org to read more about the initiative as well as the confusion surrounding its certification process.
Sat, 12 Jun 2021
The state’s positivity rate, or percent of tests that come back positive, has fallen to 3.9 percent, the lowest Idaho has seen since June 2020. That’s down from a high of 19 percent in December. The seven day moving average incidence rate is also at its lowest point since last summer, at 5.6 cases per 100,000 people, down from a high of 90 in December. As of Friday, the state has administered 1,272,000 doses of the COVID vaccine, with 623,000 Idahoans fully vaccinated. The state’s highest vaccination rate is in Blaine County, with 67 percent of residents vaccinated, while the lowest is in Idaho County, with just 26 percent vaccinated. According to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, more than 90 percent of new COVID cases are among people who aren’t vaccinated. The Idaho Department of Correction reports that 4,288 people incarcerated by the state have contracted the virus since the first recorded case in the state’s prisons last year. That means about half of IDOC’s incarcerated people have been infected with COVID-19.
Sat, 05 Jun 2021
Idaho hit another grim milestone Friday, surpassing 2,100 deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. As reported on Thursday, 6 of the deaths were people between the ages of 18 and 29, 11 deaths were people in their 30s, and 37 deaths were people in their 40s. The statewide coronavirus test positivity rate increased mildly this week, but continued to hover around 5 percent. Kootenai, Canyon and Ada counties continue to be listed as hotspots, reporting the most new coronavirus infections. As of Friday, about 600,070 Idahoans have been fully vaccinated and another 80,749 people had their first of two doses. Vaccination rates continue to vary widely by county, with 71% of Blaine County residents ages 12 years and older fully vaccinated but just 26% of Idaho County residents. Because of increasing hospitalizations nationwide, the CDC is stressing the need for 12-15 year olds to get vaccinated. The state continues to fall behind in vaccine use, as Idaho has administered 77.2% of its supply, while the national average is 80.8%. For coverage throughout the week, make sure to follow Idaho Reports on Facebook and Twitter.
Fri, 04 Jun 2021
Governor Brad Little’s actions during the pandemic were the subject of some of the most contentious debates during the legislative session this year. This week, he joins us to give us his take. The Idaho Reports broadcast schedule is ending for the summer, but we're still reporting on the statewide stories that matter to you. Find our reporting on the Idaho Reports blog, the Idaho Reports YouTube channel, and the IR podcast. You find links to all of those at idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Sat, 29 May 2021
In the midst of headline-grabbing news this week, cities, counties, and homeowners across the state are currently trying to wrap their heads around a sweeping new property tax reform law that, among other things, caps local government budget growth, increases the homeowner’s exemption to $125,000, and makes changes to the circuit breaker program. Logan Finney sat down with House Assistant Minority Leader Lauren Necochea to get her take on the bill and its implications.
Sat, 29 May 2021
The statewide incidence rate continues to drop, with the moving 7-day average incidence rate hitting 7.5 cases per 100,000 people. The highest incidence rates in the state are in north and north-central Idaho with Lewis, Clearwater, Shoshone, Kootenai and Idaho counties at the top of the list. The state’s test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, rose slightly to 5 percent after weeks of hovering under 4.5 percent. Variants have now been detected in 26 of Idaho’s 44 counties, with the UK variant the most prevalent. As of Friday, 590,772 Idahoans have been fully vaccinated with 1,220,941 doses administered in the state. Vaccination rates continue to vary widely by county, with 69 percent of Blaine County residents ages 12 and older fully vaccinated, and just 23 percent of Owyhee County residents. On Thursday, while serving as acting governor, Lt. Governor Janice McGeachin issued an executive order that would have banned local government entities, including public schools, from imposing mask mandates. Gov. Brad Little reversed that order almost immediately upon his return to the state. Some Idaho school districts still have mask mandates for students; Check with your local district for information.
Fri, 28 May 2021
A surprise executive order from Janice McGeachin while she was acting governor and a strongly worded rebuke from Brad Little just gave us a preview of how the coming Republican gubernatorial campaign is going to look. In the midst of headline-grabbing news this week, cities, counties, and homeowners across the state are also trying to wrap their heads around a sweeping new property tax reform law. House Minority Leader Lauren Necochea sits down with Idaho Reports associate producer Logan Finney to discuss the problems she sees with the legislation. Logan Finney and Ruth Brown of Idaho Reports, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press join the pundits to discuss another wild week in Idaho politics.
Sat, 22 May 2021
New daily cases continue to be much lower than they were most of last year and this winter, with the statewide rolling average 7-day case rate staying steady at 8.7 new cases per 100,000 people. That’s down from a high of 90 in December. Test positivity is also steady at 4.3 percent. But, a few regions have seen notable upticks in the past week. According to the Coeur d’Alene Press, COVID 19 admissions have doubled at Kootenai Health over the last week. Chief of Staff Robert Skoggins told the Press the hospital suspects the increase is due to a combination of new variants and a low vaccination rate. And on Thursday, KXLY reported Lake City High School in Coeur d’Alene is reinstating its mask mandate after at least 23 students have tested positive since April 26. Vaccination rates in Idaho continue to trail behind national rates. Forty seven percent of Idahoans ages 18 and older have received at least one dose of the vaccine, compared to 60 percent nationwide. Those rates vary by region: Central District Health has the highest vaccination rates, while the Southwest, Panhandle and North Central Health Districts have the lowest.
Fri, 21 May 2021
This last legislative session saw plenty of toussling among Republicans who make up the supermajority in the Idaho legislature. Democrats called it the worst legislative session in Idaho’s history. House Republicans said last week they disagree, hailing transportation funding and income tax cuts as major accomplishments. On Thursday, House Speaker Scott Bedke sat down to give us his take. On Tuesday, the Commission of Pardons and Parole granted Gerald Pizzuto Jr. a commutation hearing, leading to cancelation of his scheduled June 2 execution. The commission will hold a public hearing in November to discuss whether they will recommend Gov. Brad Little grant him clemency. Pizzuto has been on death row for 35 years, after being convicted for the killings of 2 people in Idaho County. On Wednesday, Lieutenant Gov. Janice McGeachin announced she is running for governor.
Sat, 15 May 2021
After the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said vaccinated people can safely go without masks this week, some health districts, school districts, and cities across the state are reevaluating their public health advisories and mandates. The status varies by location: Boise lifted its mask order on Friday, while Moscow’s remains in place. Be sure to check with your local officials. Also this week, 12-15 year olds are eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine. New cases remained low, with the seven-day rolling average case rate in nearly all of Idaho’s counties hitting less than 10 new cases per 100,000 people. Kootenai and Benewah counties had the highest case rates in the state this week. Ada County reported the state’s first known case of the India variant, bringing the total number of variants found in Idaho to 6. Statewide, test positivity remained roughly the same at 4.4 percent, as did hospitalizations and ICU admissions. As of Friday, 631,018 Idahoans had received at least one dose of the vaccine, with 552,997 fully vaccinated.
Fri, 14 May 2021
Clark Corbin of Idaho Capital Sun, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, and Ruth Brown of Idaho Reports discuss an unprecedented end to the record-breaking legislative session, constitutional uncertainties surrounding an indefinite recess, and tensions between the House and the Senate, as well as the scheduled execution of Gerald Pizzuto Jr.
Sat, 08 May 2021
This week, Idaho reached 188,788 COVID-19 cases and 2,061 related deaths statewide. New cases continue to fall, with the statewide daily 7-day moving average case rate of 8.8 dropping below 10 new cases per 100,000 people for the first time in nearly a year. The state’s test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, remained roughly the same at 4.3 percent. The counties with the highest case rates this week were Shoshone, Benewah, Idaho, Kootenai, Lewis and Canyon counties, while the counties with the highest total numbers of new cases were Ada, Kootenai, Canyon, Bonneville and Twin Falls. Statewide hospitalizations have fallen slightly since mid-April, though ICU admissions remain steady. Idaho hit yet another vaccination milestone this week, with half a million people now fully vaccinated. So far, 1,104,528 doses have been administered. According to the Post Register, 44 percent of Idahoans ages 16 and older have received at least one dose, compared to 57 percent nationwide. For continued coverage throughout the week, make sure to follow Idaho Reports on Facebook and Twitter.
Fri, 07 May 2021
A school shooting in eastern Idaho puts the debate over arming teachers and staff into sharp focus. Plus, property taxes, public school and higher education budgets, and another swing at the governor’s executive powers. This week, Rebecca Boone of the Associated Press and Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press discuss the legislature’s slow approach to adjournment sine die. Devin Bodkin and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discuss the ongoing policy discussions around guns in schools after a sixth grade student opened fire at Rigby Middle School, injuring two classmates and a custodian. It was the first school shooting in Idaho in more than 20 years.
Sat, 01 May 2021
The COVID-19 case rate has dropped in nearly every part of the state, with all of Idaho’s 44 counties now boasting a 7-day rolling average case rate below 20 cases per one hundred thousand people. Last week, 4.3 percent of COVID tests performed in Idaho came back positive. That’s the lowest positivity rate Idaho has seen since June. But variants continue to spread, and the UK variant continues to be the most prevalent. This week, the first instance of the so-called Brazil variant was found in an Elmore County patient. In the last week, Idaho surpassed the one million mark for COVID vaccine doses administered. As of Friday, 603,000 Idahoans had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 486,000 are fully vaccinated. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has lifted the requirement that vaccine recipients either live or work in the state to get a vaccine here.
Fri, 30 Apr 2021
This week, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, and Ruth Brown of Idaho Reports discuss this week’s ethics hearing and the resignation of Rep. Aaron von Ehlinger. Plus, education budgets and the threat of a partial government shutdown.
Sat, 24 Apr 2021
New COVID-19 cases continue to drop in Idaho, with the seven day rolling average case rate falling below 25 cases per 100,000 people in all of Idaho’s 44 counties for the first time in several months. The state’s test positivity rate, or percentage of COVID tests that come back positive, remains at 4.7 percent. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions remain steady, hovering between 140 and 160 hospitalized patients statewide on any given day since mid-February. Variants continue to spread, with about a third of Idaho’s counties reporting at least one case of the COVID variants, the majority of which are the UK variant. Idaho is nearing 1 million administered COVID doses, with more than 585,000 Idahoans receiving at least one dose of the vaccine, and nearly 445,000 Idahoans fully vaccinated. On Friday, the CDC recommended unpausing use of the one-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine. For continued coverage throughout the week, make sure you’re following Idaho Reports on Facebook and Twitter.
Fri, 23 Apr 2021
We are now more than one hundred days into the legislative session, with major budget bills still hanging in the balance. After weeks of discussion about critical race theory in Idaho classrooms, are lawmakers any closer to a compromise? This week, Hayat Norimine of the Idaho Statesman, Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun, and James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio join the pundits to help make sense of why the legislature still hasn’t adjourned, the debate over critical race theory in schools, and more. But first, the legislature’s wild ride continued this week, starting with attempted veto overrides on two bills to trim the governor’s emergency powers and put them under legislative oversight.
Mon, 19 Apr 2021
Beginning this week, our Idaho Reports Coronavirus Updates are coming to you as weekly reports. Catch up with the latest pandemic news and analysis Friday evenings on air before and after PBS Newshour, on the Idaho Reports blog, and here on the podcast.
Sat, 17 Apr 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 212 new cases and 2 new deaths for a statewide total of 184,769 known cases and 2,017 deaths. State health officials have set a vaccination goal of 80 percent of Idaho’s population by September. Anyone over the age of 16 is currently eligible for a vaccine, and state epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn says younger teens should be able to get their shots before fall. As of Friday, more than 559,968 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and nearly 399,110 are fully vaccinated. And starting next week, Idaho Reports will bring you a weekly COVID-19 update every Friday, both on air and on the Idaho Reports podcast. And of course, we’ll keep you updated throughout the week on the Idaho Reports blog.
Fri, 16 Apr 2021
This week, the House and Senate continued to have different ideas about an adjournment timeline. On Friday afternoon, Governor Brad Little announced he will veto a pair of bills meant to trim the governor's emergency powers and hand oversight to the legislature. Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News join to discuss the move and the rest of the week's news.
Fri, 16 Apr 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 210 new cases and 9 new deaths, for a statewide total of 184,557 known cases and 2,015 deaths. As of Thursday, 555,330 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and 389,083 are fully vaccinated. The state has administered 913,106 doses so far. Starting next week, Idaho Reports will transition to bringing you weekly COVID-19 updates and analysis every Friday, both on air and on the Idaho Reports podcast. We’ll also update with relevant information throughout the week on the Idaho Reports blog. You’ll find those links at idahoptv.org/idahoreports.
Thu, 15 Apr 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 437 new cases and 6 new deaths for a statewide total of 184,347 known cases and 2,006 deaths. Starting next week, Idaho Reports will transition to weekly COVID-19 updates every Friday rather than daily updates. A bill prohibiting face mask mandates made it out of the Idaho House of Representatives on Wednesday in a 46-23 vote. The bill, House Bill 339, now goes before the Senate. The bill is not yet law and any existing local mask mandates are still valid. The CDC continues to urge people to wear face masks when in public, regardless of whether they are mandatory.
Wed, 14 Apr 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 219 new cases of coronavirus and 4 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide case count is 183,910 and the death toll hit a grim milestone of 2,000 people dead. Idaho will pause the use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine, after recommendations from the CDC and FDA. The pause allows experts to review an extremely rare type of blood clot that has been reported in six women who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. The women were between the ages of 18 and 48. The cases were extremely rare, because as of Monday, more than 6.8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine had been safely administered nationwide, according to Central District Health. Gov. Brad Little stressed Tuesday that the vaccines are extremely safe and he urged Idahoans to move forward with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.
Tue, 13 Apr 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 317 new cases and 3 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 183,691 cases and 1,996 deaths. Eastern Idaho and Wood River Valley have the highest 7-day rolling average case rate, with Madison, Jefferson, Blaine, Bonneville and Caribou Counties all experiencing a high number of cases relative to their populations. In most counties, those case rates are still lower than they were two weeks ago. As of Monday, more than 538,000 Idahoans had received at least one dose of the vaccine, with about 365,000 people fully vaccinated.
Sat, 10 Apr 2021
On Friday, Idaho Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder joined Melissa Davin to talk about end-of-session negotiations between the House and Senate, what additional work the joint budget committee has in front of it, and what we can expect from the Senate on transportation and taxes. After the interview, the Senate passed a bill 25-10 regarding the governor’s emergency powers.
Sat, 10 Apr 2021
Idaho Senate Assistant Minority Leader Grant Burgoyne sat down with Melissa Davlin on Friday to give his take on end-of-session negotiations, from the future of property tax policy to transportation needs and funding sources, and what the legislature needs to get done before heading home.
Sat, 10 Apr 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 312 new cases of coronavirus and 4 new deaths. That puts the statewide total at 183,153 and the death toll at 1,993. An estimated 102,697 Idahoans have recovered from the disease. As of Friday, the state reports that 518,450 people had received at least one vaccine dose and 345,288 people are fully vaccinated. Idaho’s positivity rate, or the percentage of tests coming back positive, is increasing. The new rate is 5.6 percent, which is the highest since mid-February. Previously the positivity rate had been hovering at about 5.2 percent.
Fri, 09 Apr 2021
The legislature returned from a two and a half week recess on Tuesday, and didn’t waste any time picking up their debates. This week, Senate Assistant Minority Leader Grant Burgoyne gives his take on end-of-session negotiations and the future of property tax policy, and Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder updates us on talks between the House and Senate on taxes and budgets.
Fri, 09 Apr 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 310 new cases of coronavirus and 9 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide case count is 182,841 and the death toll is 1,989. Statewide, all people age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination. Your local public health district or covidvaccine.idaho.gov can direct you to an available provider for an appointment. As of this morning, the state reports that 509,052 people have received at least one dose of the vaccination and 335, 527 people are fully vaccinated.
Thu, 08 Apr 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 349 new cases and 6 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide case count is 182,531 and the death toll stands at 1,980. Gov. Brad Little announced the signature of an executive order on Wednesday banning any Idaho governmental entity from requiring so-called “vaccine passports” – or proof that a person has received a COVID-19 vaccination - to receive public services or access to facilities. Little strongly encouraged all Idahoans age 16 and older to receive a COVID-19 vaccine but said he would not mandate vaccinations. His executive order states that 70 percent of Idahoans age 65 and older have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Wed, 07 Apr 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 346 new cases and 2 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 182,182 cases and 1,974 deaths. Of the 95 variant cases detected in Idaho, four percent have resulted in hospitalizations and one percent in death, according to a Health and Welfare press briefing this afternoon. Epidemiologists said they think the UK and California variants are the most concerning. 491,314 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with 319,369 Idahoans fully vaccinated. Governor Brad Little will make an announcement on COVID-19 vaccines Wednesday at 2 pm MT/1 pm PT. The announcement will be streamed live on the Idaho Public Television YouTube channel.
Mon, 05 Apr 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 337 new cases and 4 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 181,836 cases and 1,972 deaths. More than 484,000 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with nearly 312,000 Idahoans fully vaccinated. Eastern Idaho continues to have the highest case rates in the state, with Madison, Clark, Bonneville and Jefferson counties showing the highest seven-day rolling averages. The state’s latest test positivity rate, or percentage of tests that come back positive, is 5.1 percent, and 95 total tests have shown variants.
Sat, 03 Apr 2021
When the legislature comes back from its COVID-induced recess on April 6th, there are a number of big issues left to address. One that has prompted a lot of discussion in the legislature and the community is the budget for Idaho’s higher education institutes, after several conservative House members expressed concern and anger over so-called social justice programs and curriculum at Idaho’s public universities. Senator Carl Crabtree sits on both the joint budget committee and Senate Education Committee, and carried the higher education budget on the Senate floor in March. On Thursday, he joined Melissa Davlin to discuss that budget, and whether he thinks it will pass the House. Public schools are also facing challenges, especially with Idaho’s youngest students. The state has long struggled to get elementary reading scores up, and additional funding often relies on local property taxes instead of the state. Davlin also asked Sen. Crabtree about policy changes the legislature could make to improve education in Idaho and what he believed needed to be done this year.
Sat, 03 Apr 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 284 new cases and 3 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 181,181 cases and 1,966 deaths. Starting Monday, all Idahoans over 16 are eligible for the COVID vaccine, though health districts have removed restrictions earlier. You can pre-register and get a call back for appointment at covidvaccine.idaho.gov Crush the Curve Idaho is planning a mass vaccination event at the Boise Airport on April 8th. You can find details at crushthecurveidaho.com and sign up. Tonight on Idaho Reports, we’ll look at coronavirus spread and immunizations, plus what to expect from the rest of the session when the Idaho Legislature comes back on Tuesday after taking two weeks off due to an outbreak.
Fri, 02 Apr 2021
What's left on the legislature's plate as lawmakers return from their COVID recess next week? A contentious higher ed budget, and lingering questions about property taxes. This week, Sen. Carl Crabtree gives us his take on the higher education debate in the legislature, and Sen. Ali Rabe discusses the housing crisis in Idaho’s most populated areas. Nicole Foy of the Idaho Statesman and Kyle Pfannenstiel of the Idaho Falls Post-Register and Report for America talk about recent COVID-19 cases and immunization data.
Fri, 02 Apr 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 361 new coronavirus cases and 1 new death. That brings the statewide case count to 180,897 and the death count to 1,963. Eastern Idaho Public Health announced today that they are opening up vaccine eligibility for anyone age 16 and older. That means six of Idaho’s seven public health districts have opened eligibility to the general public before the state’s target date of next Monday. Residents are encouraged to pre-register for a vaccine at COVIDvaccine.idaho.gov. If you signed up on that website but then end up booking an appointment directly with a provider or obtaining a vaccine by other means, your pre-registration confirmation email will have a link to remove your name from the list.
Thu, 01 Apr 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 460 new cases and 5 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. That brings the statewide case count to 180,536 and the death toll to 1,962. So far, more than 447,000 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of the vaccine as providers urge others to sign up. Some health districts have opened vaccinations up to anyone age 16 and older, while other areas are waiting until Monday, April 5. Call your local public health district to learn if you are eligible for a vaccine. You can still sign up at COVIDvaccine.idaho.gov to pre-register for a vaccine.
Wed, 31 Mar 2021
Today, Central District Health and Southeastern Idaho Public Health District announced they have opened up vaccine eligibility to anyone 16 and older. Previously, the Panhandle Health District and North Central District Health had opened up eligibility to the general population, meaning anyone who lives north of Riggins can get vaccinated. In the rest of the state, people 16 and older with one pre-existing condition can currently get a vaccine. If you live in one of the other three public health districts and aren’t already eligible, you will be on Monday, April 5. You can still pre-register at COVIDvaccine.idaho.gov. We’ll see you back here tomorrow. Until then, stay safe, Idaho.
Tue, 30 Mar 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 335 new cases of coronavirus and 3 new deaths due to COVID-19. The statewide case count is now 179,763 and the death toll stands at 1,957. Today, Idahoans over age 16 with at least one medical condition are now eligible to be vaccinated. Next Monday, April 5th, eligibility opens for all Idahoans over the age of 16. Residents are encouraged to use the COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration System at COVIDvaccine.idaho.gov. The Department of Health and Welfare says over 100,000 people have signed up through the pre-registration system, and nearly 42,000 of those people have been contacted by a provider to schedule an appointment. Today 432,483 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of a vaccine and 273,524 people are fully vaccinated.
Sun, 28 Mar 2021
Rep. Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls, spoke with Idaho Reports about mental health issues and suicide prevention.
Sat, 27 Mar 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 317 new cases of coronavirus and no new deaths due to COVID-19. The statewide case count is now 179,204 and the death toll stands at 1,954. Vaccines are currently being offered to anyone age 45 and older. On Monday, people ages 16 to 44 may be vaccinated if they have at least one medical condition. As of April 5th, all Idahoans age 16 and older may schedule their COVID-19 vaccination appointment. So far, more than 417,000 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Residents are encouraged to use the COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration System at COVIDvaccine.idaho.gov.
Fri, 26 Mar 2021
This week, we explore the complexities around the legislature’s discussions on suicide prevention. Then, Rep. Laurie Lickley and Sen. David Nelson talk about the Idaho Behavioral Health Council, and whether the legislature is prepared to tackle the wide-ranging problems affecting mental health. But first, a vaccine update: the state is speeding up the timeline.
Fri, 26 Mar 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 343 new cases of coronavirus and 2 new deaths due to COVID-19 related causes. That brings the statewide case count to 178,887 and the death toll to 1,954. Bonneville County currently has the highest 7-day moving average infection rate in the state, with roughly 42 cases per 100,000 people. All Idahoans age 16 and older may now schedule their COVID-19 vaccination appointment starting April 5th. Residents are encouraged to use the COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration System at covidvaccine.idaho.gov. So far, more than 406,000 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Thu, 25 Mar 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 425 new cases and 1 new death. That brings the statewide total to 178,544 cases and the death toll to 1,952. All Idahoans over the age of 16 can now schedule their COVID vaccine shot starting April 5th. That’s three weeks earlier than previously scheduled. Governor Brad Little announced the change today. Starting Monday, March 29th, any Idahoan with one of the CDC designated health conditions can make an appointment. Residents are encourage to use the COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration System at covidvaccine.idaho.gov. So far, 396,315 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Wed, 24 Mar 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 359 new cases of coronavirus and 5 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. That brings the statewide total to 178,119 known cases and 1,951 deaths. Gov. Brad Little will make an announcement about vaccines in Idaho at 12 p.m. Mountain Time Wednesday on Idaho Public Television. As of Tuesday, more than 388,040 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of the vaccine. All Idahoans age 55 and older qualify to become vaccinated this week. Go to covidvaccine.idaho.gov to learn more and pre-register for an appointment.
Tue, 23 Mar 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 340 new cases and 5 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 177,760 known cases, and 1,946 deaths. The Department of Health and Welfare will hold a vaccine briefing with Director Dave Jeppesen, Public Health Administrator Elke Shaw-Tulloch, and Immunization Program Manger Sarah Leeds this Wednesday, March 24 at 12:30 pm Mountain Time, 11:30 am Pacific Time, following an announcement from Governor Brad Little at noon MT. All Idahoans age 55 and older qualify to become vaccinated today, with open eligibility next Monday for those age 45 and older with certain medical conditions. Go to covidvacine.idaho.gov to learn more and pre-register for an appointment.
Sat, 20 Mar 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 383 new cases of coronavirus and 3 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide total now stands at 177,185 known cases and 1,941 deaths. The COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee voted Friday to include congregate living facilities in vaccine Group 3 regardless of age and medical conditions. That includes people living in domestic violence shelters, residential treatment facilities, and people in jails and prisons. CVAC makes recommendations to Governor Brad Little, and he will make the ultimate decision. To pre-register for a vaccine, go to covidvaccine.idaho.gov and a provider will contact you when you’re eligible.
Fri, 19 Mar 2021
This week, an outbreak of COVID-19 at the statehouse has prompted the Legislature to recess until April 6th. Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discuss the lead-up and implications for the session. Also, Alex Adams of the Division of Financial Management gives us a run-down of the billions in federal stimulus dollars that Idaho will receive as part of the American Rescue Plan Act.
Fri, 19 Mar 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 341 new cases and 3 new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 176,802 cases and 1,938 deaths. Idaho Falls has been the nation's top hotspot for new coronavirus cases by population over the past two weeks, and Rexburg is close behind in third place, according to the New York Times coronavirus outbreak tracker. The Associated Press reported that Southwest Idaho reports an increasing number of people infected with a highly contagious variant of COVID-19, first identified in the United Kingdom. Primary Health Medical Group CEO Dr. David Peterman said 30% of positive tests on Wednesday at his facilities in southwestern Idaho were the UK variant.
Thu, 18 Mar 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 454 new cases and 6 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 176,461 known cases and 1,935 deaths. Central District Health reports another case of the UK variant identified in Idaho. That makes 8 cases in Idaho with that strain of the virus, which is thought to be more infectious and may be associated with an increased risk of death. Starting Monday, all Idahoans 55 and older will be eligible to get a vaccine. For more information, visit covidvaccine.idaho.gov. Governor Brad Little will hold a press conference tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 pm Mountain Time to discuss the federal COVID-19 relief plan. We'll share the link on our social media pages.
Wed, 17 Mar 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 350 new cases and 13 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 176,007 known cases and 1,929 deaths. This week, the state expects to receive more than 50,000 first doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, and 2,500 doses of the one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine. The state announced that starting April 12th, Idahoans ages 16-44 with qualifying pre-existing medical conditions will be eligible to get vaccinated. Then, beginning April 26th, all Idahoans older than 16 will be eligible. Currently, Idahoans older than 55 with pre-existing conditions are eligible. For more information on priority groups, visit covidvaccine.idaho.gov. https://youtu.be/q7HuLr26HLc
Tue, 16 Mar 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 421 new cases of coronavirus and 6 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 175,657 cases and 1,916 deaths. Starting today, Idaho residents ages 55-64 with certain pre-existing conditions are eligible to get vaccinated. Starting March 22nd, all Idahoans in that age group can schedule an appointment. The state is still vaccinating those who qualified in previous tiers, so if you’re 65 and older, it’s not too late. To pre-register for a vaccine, visit covidvaccine.idaho.gov and then a provider in your area will contact you to make an appointment.
Sat, 13 Mar 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 333 new cases of coronavirus and 3 new deaths. The statewide total stands at 174,943 cases and 1,909 deaths. Though case numbers have been declining, Southwest District Health Department kept Canyon and Owyhee counties in the Yellow health zone because of continuing case loads. Starting Monday, residents 55-65 with one of the designated high risk health conditions will be eligible for a vaccine. Then starting March 22nd, all Idahoans 55-65 can schedule an appointment. Visit https://covidvaccine.idaho.gov to pre-register for a vaccination.
Fri, 12 Mar 2021
Health care and education are the two biggest drivers of the budget in the state, and neither is without their share of policy proposals. This week, Layne McInelly, president of the Idaho Education Association, shares his take on the public education budget and a proposal to let school districts and public charters create their own teaching certificates to address teacher shortages. Then, House Health and Welfare Committee Chairman Fred Wood and Sen. Melissa Wintrow join me to discuss Medicaid and the state’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.
Fri, 12 Mar 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 364 new cases of coronavirus and 5 new deaths due to COVID-19 related causes. The statewide total now stands at 174,610 known cases and 1,906 deaths. As of Thursday, more than 304,000 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine. To pre-register for a vaccination appointment, visit covidvaccine.idaho.gov and then a provider in your area will contact you when you’re eligible.
Thu, 11 Mar 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 456 new cases of coronavirus and 9 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide death toll now stands at 1,901. The state’s test positivity rate was 4.5 percent for the week of February 21 to 27, the most recent dates for which data is available. Providers around the state are continuing to make appointments for Idahoans in priority group 2.3, which includes food service and janitorial workers, and some providers are beginning to reach out to pre-registered adults ages 55-64. To pre-register, visit covidvaccine.idaho.gov and a provider in your area will contact you when you’re eligible.
Wed, 10 Mar 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 481 new cases of coronavirus and 2 new deaths due to COVID-19-related causes. The statewide count now stands at 173,790 known cases and 1,892 people dead. More Idahoans in Group 2.3 are eligible for vaccinations starting March 15, but appointments are starting to go unfilled in most health districts, so some parts of the state are opening up shots to that group early. Newly eligible people include convenience and grocery store workers, manufacturing workers, U.S. Postal Service workers and flight crews. Pre-register at https://covidvaccine.idaho.gov and a provider in your area will contact you when you’re eligible. The next Idahoans eligible for the vaccine in Group 3 will be based on age and high-risk medical conditions.
Tue, 09 Mar 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 378 new cases and 11 new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 173,309 known cases and 1,890 deaths. As of Monday, nearly 167,000 Idahoans were fully vaccinated, and another 117,000 had received the first dose of a two-shot vaccine. The state has launched a new vaccine appointment pre-registration system. At https://covidvaccine.idaho.gov, you can enter contact information, as well as details to help the state determine which priority group you’re in. When you’re eligible, a provider in your area will contact you to set up an appointment.
Sat, 06 Mar 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 240 new cases and no new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 172,827 known cases and 1,876 deaths. The state launched a new vaccine appointment pre-registration system today. Idahoans can now go to covidvaccine.idaho.gov and register their names, then they will be contacted by a vaccine provider in their area when it’s their turn. Starting March 15, the next group of workers will be eligible for vaccination, including workers in the food and agriculture industry, grocery and convenience store staff, and other designed essential workers. The Covid Vaccine Advisory Committee is working on recommendations for who will be in the next phase of rollout. The committee proposes an alternating schedule between age groups and those with high-risk health conditions.
Fri, 05 Mar 2021
After a year of uncertainty in education, concerns over content dominate the conversation. This week, lawmakers narrowly voted down a bill for a $6 million federal grant for early childhood education. Sen. Janie Ward-Engelking and Rep. Wendy Horman discuss education budgets and the controversy over social justice content and programs. Then, Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News gives us a run-down of some of the major education policy proposals in front of the legislature right now.
Fri, 05 Mar 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 299 new cases and no new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 172,587 known cases and 1,876 deaths. The department has identified 16 coronavirus cases with variants of concern, 12 of which are the strain known as the California variant. Transparency data shows that more than 75 percent of vaccines have been administered in each of the seven public health districts, and 80 percent of doses have been administered statewide. The Coronavirus Vaccine Advisory Committee will meet Friday at noon Mountain Time, 11 am Pacific Time, to vote on more clarifications to vaccine groups 1 and 2. We’ll have the link to view the public meeting on our social media.
Thu, 04 Mar 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare added 452 new cases and 5 new deaths to its statewide total. As of this morning, more than 257,000 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Earlier this week, the state began publishing demographic data for vaccine recipients, though the data is incomplete. Providers aren’t required to ask patients for their race or ethnicity, and patients aren’t required to supply it. But early data suggests racial disparities. For the 130,000 patients whose race and ethnicity we know, just 6,000 are Hispanic or Latino. Hispanic people make up 12 percent of Idaho’s population, but less than five percent of vaccine recipients.
Wed, 03 Mar 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare added 374 new cases and 4 new deaths to its statewide total. That brings the statewide total to 171,836 cases and 1,871 deaths. Also on Tuesday, the department announced the state will receive more than 13,000 doses of the newly approved one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine this week, in addition to the 40,000 first doses of Pfizer and Moderna that the state is currently receiving. The next priority group, which includes food processing employees, farmworkers, and janitors, is eligible to get vaccinated starting Monday, March 15. This comes as the state’s positivity rate has dropped to 5.1 percent. For more information on that next tier, as well as information on where to get vaccinated, visit coronavirus.idaho.gov.
Tue, 02 Mar 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 322 new cases of coronavirus and 7 new deaths due to COVID-19 related causes. That brings the statewide total to 171,462 known infections and 1,867 deaths. Race and ethnicity data were made available today on the state’s COVID-19 vaccine website. Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen said the department is committed to transparency, but race and ethnicity information are not mandatory for patients to report.
Sat, 27 Feb 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 312 new cases and 9 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 170,907 known cases and 1,859 deaths. Emergency room visits because of suspected COVID illness continue to decline. Counties with the highest number of cases this week are Ada, Bonneville, Canyon, Kootenai and Madison counties. As reported today, 108,502 Idahoans have received both doses of the vaccine. That includes more than 40 percent of Idahoans over age 65. Health officials say the state will be receiving more doses next week and the expected approval of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine over the weekend could increase available vaccine supplies.
Fri, 26 Feb 2021
We have a surplus in the state budget, and you know what that means: Showdowns over tax cuts. This week, Senator Jim Rice responds to criticism of his property tax proposal from local government officials. Alejandra Cerna Rios, director of the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy, gives analysis on an income and sales tax proposal from the House, then House Majority Leader Mike Moyle and House Majority Caucus Chair Megan Blanksma discuss taxes and more.
Fri, 26 Feb 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 306 new cases and 10 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 170,595 known cases and 1,850 deaths. The Post Register reports that Idaho Falls school district will keep its current mask mandate and return to in-person schooling five days a week beginning March 8th. The Department of Health and Welfare says they’ve heard frustration from Idahoans who are unable to schedule vaccine appointments because of overwhelmed phone lines and websites, and they are working on a new registration tool to help streamline the process. We’ll have more details as they become available. The highest rate of people who have received at least one vaccine dose is in Blaine County at 27.45 percent, while the lowest rate is in neighboring Lincoln County at 7.23 percent.
Thu, 25 Feb 2021
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 423 new coronavirus cases and no new deaths on Wednesday. Idaho’s state totals now stand at 170,289 known cases and 1,840 people dead due to COVID-19-related causes. The Department of Health and Welfare has confirmed the first known Idaho case of someone infected with the UK (B.1.1.7) variant of the coronavirus. The person is a woman who lives in Ada County and had traveled out of state earlier this month. The UK variant is known to spread more quickly and easily than other variants of the coronavirus. Idaho public health officials urge residents to remain cautious and wear face coverings in public.
Wed, 24 Feb 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare added 282 cases and 14 new deaths to its statewide total. That ends a four day run with no new deaths and brings the total number of cases to 169,866 and total deaths to 1,840. More than 219,161 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and the state has administered about 93 percent of the vaccines it has received. On Tuesday, Health and Welfare announced that from now on, vaccine recipients must show proof they either live or work in Idaho to receive a vaccine here. During a media call later that day, Director Dave Jeppesen said about 4,800 people who neither live or work in the state have been vaccinated. During the briefing, state epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn said Idaho has a second confirmed case of the South Africa variant of COVID-19.
Tue, 23 Feb 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare added 332 cases and no new deaths to its statewide total, bringing the statewide total to 169,584 known cases and 1,826 deaths. More than 210,000 Idahoans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, including forty percent of Idahoans aged 65 or older. Vaccination rates still vary county by county, however. As of today, one fourth of Blaine County residents have received at least one dose, but immediately to the south, just 7 percent of Lincoln County residents are inoculated, the lowest percentage in the state. Meanwhile, hospitalizations and ICU admissions continue to drop statewide. This comes as the United States passed the grim milestone of half a million recorded deaths today.
Sat, 20 Feb 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 314 new cases and no new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 168,953 known cases and 1,826 deaths. Health officials have confirmed the first case of the South African variant of the coronavirus in Idaho. The case is a man living in southwest Idaho who had been traveling internationally. The South African variant is more contagious and vaccines may not work quite as well against it. Central District Health officials dropped mask requirements in Ada and Valley counties today, but masks are still mandatory in public spaces within the City of Boise. Mayor Lauren McLean continued the city’s mask order this afternoon.
Fri, 19 Feb 2021
COVID-19 cases are dropping statewide, but it wouldn’t be a legislative session without a little infighting. This week, House Assistant Majority Leader Jason Monks and Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett give us their take on tax proposals in the legislature. Then, James Dawson of Boise State Public Radio updates us on a bill to set a higher bar for voter initiatives. Finally, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press gives us a run-down on a contentious week.
Fri, 19 Feb 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 286 new cases and 9 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 168,639 known cases and 1,826 deaths. The Idaho Press reports that Central District Health has detected new variants of the coronavirus from California and the UK in Ada County wastewater. The variants have not yet been detected through individual testing, but officials have assumed that they were circulating in the state. The CDH board will meet tomorrow at 8:30 am Mountain Time to consider changes to existing public health orders for Ada and Valley counties. The state’s COVID-19 vaccine advisory committee will also meet tomorrow at noon Mountain Time, 11 am Pacific Time. The public link will be posted on our social media pages.
Thu, 18 Feb 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare recorded 408 new coronavirus cases and 11 new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 168,353 cases and 1,817 deaths. Southeastern Idaho Public Health reported a disruption in its vaccination plans Wednesday. Because of the extreme winter weather across the country, vaccine shipments are delayed. The lack of delivery means the district’s 8 counties will temporarily postpone vaccinations. The COVID-19 vaccine advisory committee is scheduled to meet this Friday at noon MT, 11am PT. We’ll see you back here tomorrow, and until then, stay safe, Idaho.
Wed, 17 Feb 2021
Idaho has hit a new milestone with COVID-19 vaccinations, according to Dave Jeppesen, director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. As of last week, more Idahoans have received the first dose of the vaccine than have been diagnosed with the virus. For the foreseeable future, the state will receive about 30,000 first doses each week, in addition to the paired second doses. Later this week, the state will make race and ethnicity data of vaccine recipients available on its COVID website. For updated case and vaccine numbers, visit coronavirus.idaho.gov.
Sat, 13 Feb 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 349 new cases and 5 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 167,225 known cases and 1,796 deaths. Southwest District Health lowered Adams, Canyon, Owyhee, Payette and Washington counties into the yellow category today. Only Gem County remains in the orange category for this health district. The Bonneville school board voted last night to drop its mask mandates starting March 8th. District officials hope that cases will continue to decline and enough educators will be vaccinated by that date. Because of the Monday holiday, we’ll see you back here on Tuesday. Until then, stay safe, Idaho.
Fri, 12 Feb 2021
Congressman Mike Simpson has unveiled a proposal to save Idaho salmon. The effort includes removing four dams, replacing power generated by those dams, and locking in dams in other basins. The $33.5 billion proposal includes money for watershed partnerships, agriculture, economic development, and much more. Meanwhile, Idaho lawmakers work on proposals to end grocery taxes and limit ballot harvesting.
Fri, 12 Feb 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 323 new cases and 0 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 166,876 known cases and 1,791 deaths. According to vaccine transparency data published yesterday, 66% of all vaccine doses distributed in Idaho have been administered. Panhandle Health District - 71% Public Health Idaho-North Central Health District - 56% Southwest District Health - 65% Central District Health - 72% South Central Public Health District - 74% Southeastern Idaho Public Health - 70% Eastern Idaho Public Health - 66%
Thu, 11 Feb 2021
The second impeachment trial of former President Donald J. Trump has been underway in the U.S. Senate this week, focused on the January 6th altercation that interrupted the counting of electoral college votes from the 2020 presidential election. The trial centers around whether Trump incited that crowd to violence, but before the breach of the capitol itself were claims that massive fraud had stolen the election from the former president and his supporters. But is that true? Associate Professor Benjamin Cover of the University of Idaho College of Law discusses the electoral vote count and all of the surrounding constitutional claims and legal arguments.
Thu, 11 Feb 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 458 new cases and 11 new deaths. That puts the statewide total at 166,553 known cases and 1,791 deaths. The COVID-19 test positivity rate dropped to about 7 percent by the end of January. That’s about what the rate was in the middle of last September, after a high of 19.1 percent positive last November. Because of the declining numbers and more teachers being vaccinated, a number of Idaho school districts are returning to in-person learning. The West Ada School District could return students grades 6 to 12 almost full time on March 30th. The Pocatello-Chubbuck School District will return all of its students to class on March 1st. Boise, Idaho Falls and Bonneville school districts are also considering their own re-opening dates.
Wed, 10 Feb 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 437 new cases and 4 deaths. That brings the statewide total to 166,095 known cases and 1,780 deaths. Hospitalizations continue to drop, and on Saturday, ICU admissions dipped below 40 for the first time since early October. Idaho will continue to receive roughly 25,000 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine each week, in addition to the second doses paired for those who have gotten their first shot. So far more than 62,000 Idahoans older than 65 have received their first dose, or about 20 percent of the state's senior population.
Tue, 09 Feb 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 449 new cases and 9 deaths. That brings the statewide total to 165,658 known cases and 1,776 deaths. Today, the state released a new vaccine transparency dashboard to show how quickly health districts and individual providers throughout the state are distributing their doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. The dashboard is the result of an executive order from Governor Brad Little late last month, and follows concerns that Idaho was slow in its vaccine roll-out. You’ll find the link at coronavirus.idaho.gov.
Sat, 06 Feb 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 404 new cases and 11 deaths. That brings the statewide total to 164,969 known cases and 1,758 deaths. The Eastern Idaho Public Health district lifted mandatory mask orders in Custer and Jefferson Counties. And if case numbers continue to decline, officials hope to lift mask requirements in Bonneville county on Monday. The Pocatello City Council will vote on lifting its required mask ordinance on February 18th. Even though some mandatory orders are being lifted, Health officials ask all residents to wear masks in public, wash their hands, and maintain social distances. The hope is to keep the COVID case numbers declining. On Idaho Reports, we’ll look at efforts to consolidate vaccine data and get an update on this week’s legislative action.
Fri, 05 Feb 2021
This week, Dr. Tommy Ahlquist of Crush the Curve Idaho talks about their efforts to get vaccine information out to Idahoans. The Senate passed a constitutional amendment that would prevent future drug legalization in the state. Then, Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press updates us on the legislature’s newest proposals to put the governor’s powers in check and the latest on Medicaid funding.
Fri, 05 Feb 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 402 new cases and one less death than yesterday. That brings the statewide total to 164,565 known cases and 1,747 deaths. Hospital rates for COVID-19 have continued to decline, with 203 people hospitalized and 47 in the ICU, according to data collected on Monday. So far 91,575 Idahoans have received the first dose of the vaccine and 29,012 have received both doses. Vaccination rates by county vary between 3.5% to nearly 13%, though in any given county less than 5% of the population has received both doses. The Idaho Covid-19 Vaccine Advisory committee will meet tomorrow to review priority subgroups and evaluate vaccine administration.
Thu, 04 Feb 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 507 new cases and 7 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 164,163 known cases and 1,748 deaths. The Eastern Idaho Public Health District has established a lottery-style system for priority groups to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Those eligible can register on a waiting list, then a computer will then generate a random list and officials will call or text those selected to set up an appointment. Those who register before February 11th can expect an appointment between February 15th and the end of March. Visit https://eiph.idaho.gov/Home/Hot%20Topics/Coronavirus/COVID_Vaccine.html or call (208) 533-3223 for more information. The Idaho Covid-19 Vaccine Advisory committee will meet on Friday to review priority subgroups and evaluate vaccine administration. So far 87,135 Idahoans have received the first dose of the vaccine and 26,415 have received both doses.
Wed, 03 Feb 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 491 new cases and 6 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 163,656 known cases and 1,741 deaths. Governor Brad Little announced today that the state will advance from Idaho Rebounds Stage 2 to Stage 3, citing declining hospitalizations and case counts. Under that new health order, the limit on group sizes is increased from 10 people to 50 people. Those requirements still do not apply to religious or political gatherings, and attendance at youth sporting events is still under the purview of the State Board of Education. Officials emphasized that good hygiene, mask wearing and social distancing are still priorities to help slow the spread of the virus as the slow rollout of vaccines continues. “This is not the time to throw the masks away and go back to normal," state epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn said. "We're not there yet."
Tue, 02 Feb 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 482 new cases and 10 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 163,165 known cases and 1,735 deaths. Monday was the first day Idahoans ages 65 and older could get vaccinated, and already health districts across the state reported an overwhelming response with appointments filled almost immediately in some cities. Health districts are asking people to stay patient and keep watching for future appointments to open. Governor Brad Little will make an announcement regarding COVID-19 on Tuesday at 10 am MT, 9 am PT. We’ll have coverage here tomorrow and on the Idaho Reports social media pages.
Sat, 30 Jan 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 635 new cases and 4 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 162,355 known cases and 1,725 deaths. Idaho launched a new COVID-19 vaccination information web page today. The site (https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/covid-19-vaccination) is designed to let Idahoans know when and where they can get vaccinated and what to expect at their appointment. As of this morning, 73,770 Idahoans have received only one dose of the vaccine and 20,301 have received both doses. Monday, seniors 65 and older are now eligible for vaccination. Many providers are taking appointments now, but officials ask Idahoans to be patient as supplies are still limited.
Fri, 29 Jan 2021
We’ve heard what’s on the governor and lawmakers’ to-do lists this session. But what about the average Idahoan? This week, Professor Jeffrey Lyons of Boise State University’s School of Public Service discusses their most recent Public Policy Survey, as well as insights into what Idahoans feel about the pandemic, vaccines, and mask mandates. Then, Mark Browning of College of Western Idaho and Kevin Richert of Idaho Education News discuss education budget requests and more. But first, a quick COVID-19 update.
Fri, 29 Jan 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 508 new cases and 7 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 161,720 known cases and 1,721 deaths. Today, Governor Brad Little announced a new executive order that will require COVID-19 vaccine providers to report the number of doses they have been allocated by their local public health district, how many doses they have administered, and how many doses they have in their inventory. These new reporting requirements are intended to ensure transparency and enable the state to provide assistance if providers are not administering doses quickly enough. Little said he expects providers to administer vaccine doses within seven days of receiving them. The new transparency data should be available to the public on Monday, February 8th.
Thu, 28 Jan 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 620 new cases and 26 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 161,212 known cases and 1,714 deaths. State epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn asks that people in the first vaccine priority group who don’t yet have appointments call their healthcare providers right away. Demand will increase dramatically on Monday when nearly 300,000 residents 65 and older will become eligible for vaccination. Idaho is currently receiving about 21,000 new doses each week. At that rate, it could take more than three months to vaccinate everyone in the second priority group. Governor Brad Little will hold a press conference tomorrow at 1 pm Mountain Time/noon Pacific Time to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine.
Wed, 27 Jan 2021
On Tuesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 559 new cases and 7 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 160,592 known cases and 1,688 deaths. So far this week, the highest number of cases has been reported in the state’s most populated counties, including Ada and Kootenai, though rural counties like Camas, Blaine and Teton are experiencing the highest current incidence rates, or number of cases per 100,000 people. As of this morning, 81,210 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with about 15,500 people receiving both doses. Starting next Monday, Idahoans ages 65 and older will be able to sign up to get vaccinated.
Tue, 26 Jan 2021
On Monday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 527 new cases and 12 new deaths. In addition to 708 cases announced over the weekend, that brings the statewide total to 160,033 known cases and 1,681 deaths. Hospitalization rates are trending downward. On Saturday, there were 169 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and 53 in intensive care. The Department of Health and Welfare will give an update on the status of vaccines on Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 Mountain Time, 1:30 Pacific Time. Idaho still remains near the bottom of states in the amount of vaccine received per capita. As of this morning, 78,805 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine. One of those was people is Governor Brad Little, who received his first dose today.
Sat, 23 Jan 2021
Friday afternoon, Governor Brad Little slammed lawmakers for proposals to end the COVID-19 emergency declaration, saying they would jeopardize millions in federal funding used for vaccine roll-outs, personal protective equipment, and more.
Sat, 23 Jan 2021
On Friday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 598 new cases and 13 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 158,798 known cases and 1,667 deaths. The Idaho COVID Vaccine Advisory Committee today voted to allow clergy, who enter healthcare facilities for things like last rites, be included in the first vaccine group. The Committee rejected attempts to move up foster parents and utility workers. So far, 68,627 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and of that group 13,732 people have received both doses.
Fri, 22 Jan 2021
This week, Governor Brad Little slammed lawmakers for proposals to end the COVID-19 emergency declaration, saying they would jeopardize millions in federal funding used for vaccine roll-outs, personal protective equipment, and more. Director Brad Richy of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management joins us to discuss the differences between health orders and emergency declarations, and Audrey Dutton of the Idaho Statesman brings us up to speed on the vaccine roll-out.
Fri, 22 Jan 2021
On Thursday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 612 new cases and 19 new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 158,200 known cases and 1,654 deaths. Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 continue to trend downward, with 286 Idahoans hospitalized and 71 in the ICU as of Monday. The statewide seven-day incidence rate has dropped to 32.8 cases per 100,000 people, its lowest since just after Christmas. That statistic varies across counties, however, with the highest reported rates at 97.9 in Clearwater, 94.1 in Teton, 80.1 in Blaine, and 64.0 in Valley. So far 64,590 people in Idaho have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and of that group 13,093 people have received both doses.
Thu, 21 Jan 2021
On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reported 810 new cases and no new deaths. That brings the statewide total to 157,588 known cases and 1,635 deaths, two less than yesterday’s reported number. Governor Brad Little announced today that he will ask the State Board of Education to allow more spectators at school sporting events. Little cited a decrease in statewide COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations as the reason to revise the guidelines. Spectators will still be reminded to social distance and wear masks. The Idaho COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee will meet on Friday to clarify who falls into the priority subgroups for the next phase of vaccine distribution. So far 61,333 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 11,778 have received both.