Hello District 19 Residents,
It’s our honor to serve you. We work closely together and with this newsletter we will share updates on the legislative session, which kicked off this week.
You’re likely aware that in addition to the usual safety concerns that exist in the Idaho Capitol building, this year we’re faced with the additional threat of unmasked individuals. We would normally encourage your visits to the Capitol. We can’t recommend that this year because of safety concerns. We still look forward to hearing from you. Please see our contact information below.
- LNecochea@house.idaho.gov or 208.332.1078
- CMathias@house.idaho.gov or 208.332.1076
Governor Little State of the State Address
Governor Little delivered his State of the State on January 11th. While we support his restoration of recent cuts to education, he could have gone much further to support our students and their families during these challenging times. Our caucus will also continue fighting for financial assistance for those educators who are willing to teach in rural and underserved areas.
We were disappointed that the governor proposed deep, permanent income tax cuts at the top, alongside one-time increases to property tax assistance and the grocery tax credit. We will work to advance a fair tax structure that lifts working families.
One of Representative Mathias’s committees – State Affairs – has gotten off to a fast start. Seven bills (called “RSs” at the initial committee stage) were sent to print in three days. Multiple bills aim to limit some of the Governor’s emergency-declaring powers. Another proposes a Constitutional Amendment to create the right for the legislature to call itself into special session. And two bills focus on clarifying parental rights and duties. Full information will be available once the bills are printed and posted.
Thank you for your continued support during these unprecedented times. We look forward to hearing from you and representing you during the 2021 Legislative Session. In the meantime, be good to yourselves and your neighbors.