As Idaho lawmakers reconvene for the legislative session on January 4, 2025, the Republican supermajority, which gained three seats in the November 2024 elections, is set to focus on several key issues. Among the top priorities are school vouchers, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, immigration reforms, and Medicaid expansion [a3795804].
Governor Brad Little has emphasized the importance of education, supporting the Idaho LAUNCH grant program aimed at enhancing educational opportunities. Proposals for school vouchers are expected to gain significant traction, with Senate Majority Leader Lori Den Hartog anticipating robust debates surrounding school choice [a3795804]. However, Democrats are likely to oppose these vouchers, arguing that they pose risks to public schools and could divert essential funding away from them [a3795804].
In addition to education, the session will also address ongoing discussions about abortion laws, which remain strict with limited exceptions. There are considerations for repealing Medicaid expansion, as well as discussions surrounding the grocery tax [a3795804]. DEI initiatives are expected to face considerable opposition, reflecting a broader national trend against such policies [a3795804].
Moreover, immigration policies are anticipated to tighten under the incoming Trump administration, aligning with the Republican agenda to enforce stricter immigration controls [a3795804]. As the session unfolds, these issues will likely shape the legislative landscape in Idaho, reflecting the priorities of the current political climate and the Republican majority's objectives.
