1. What legislation are you most proud of passing this session and why?

I am immensely proud of the legislation we passed to fund school facilities, which significantly impacts our educational environment, particularly for institutions like Highland High School that direly needed maintenance and upgrades. These efforts ensure that our schools are safe, conducive learning environments that can serve our community effectively. Additionally, the continuation of funding for the Idaho Launch program is a personal victory. As a lifelong electrician, I know the importance of supporting vocational training for our young people, preparing them for critical roles in our economy like electricians, plumbers, and more. This funding not only supports individual careers but also bolsters our local economy by preparing skilled workers ready to step into essential jobs.

2. What legislation are you most disappointed that failed to pass this session and why?

This session, I was deeply disappointed by the failure of SB 1445, which aimed to continue funding the summer EBT program for low-income children. This bill would have used $14 million of our tax dollars to provide necessary nutritional support during the summer months, ensuring that children have consistent access to food year-round. Its failure means not only a missed opportunity to help our most vulnerable populations but also a significant financial waste as these federal funds will simply return to the government rather than benefiting our community. Additionally, the failure of H393, which would have increased flexibility for mental health counselors and clients, was a significant blow. Our state faces a mental health crisis, exacerbated by a shortage of qualified professionals, and this bill would have been a step towards improving accessibility to mental health services.

3. What will you be working on in the interim for the session next year?

Looking forward to the next session, I plan to focus on several critical areas during the interim. Firstly, I will be working on legislation that incentivizes the use of American-made materials in state infrastructure projects. This not only supports our local and national manufacturers but ensures quality and durability in our public projects. Furthermore, I will continue to defend Medicaid against attempts to undermine it, ensuring that all Idahoans have access to essential healthcare services. Lastly, addressing Idaho’s shortage of skilled blue-collar workers is paramount. By supporting educational and training programs, and potentially enhancing incentives for careers in trades, we can ensure a robust workforce ready to support and grow our state’s economy.