State Policy
Bizarre development puts open meetings trial on hold
The civil trial — a key obstacle to the University of Idaho’s proposed $685 million University of Phoenix purchase — is scheduled to resume Wednesday. Its end date is less clear.
High-stakes trial opens, challenging U of I-Phoenix purchase
The trial represents one of the biggest obstacles to a $685 million megadeal that could provide U of I with millions of dollars in new revenue, or jeopardize up to $10 million a year in tax money.
Statehouse roundup, 1.22.24: Republican introduces bill to arm school employees
INSIDE: A bill would bar universities from asking job applicants to ascribe to “diversity statements,” and West Bonner has inspired another bill.
Big salaries on campus: Higher ed’s highest-paid employees
Across Idaho, 271 college and university employees earn more than Gov. Brad Little.
Statehouse roundup, 1.19.24: Lawmakers recommend 3% state pay raises
More news inside: Boise State University’s School of Public Service and Idaho Policy Institute released the results of their ninth annual survey Friday; and details on Saturday’s women’s march.
Analysis: Inside the largely private search for Idaho State’s new president
The most important discussions and deliberations took place behind closed doors. Many details remain under wraps. And the State Board of Education started negotiating with Robert Wagner days before actually making a hire.
Statehouse roundup, 1.18.24: New, negotiated library bill is coming
A controversial library bill that drew hundreds in protest is effectively dead, but a new version is forthcoming.
No, the Blaine Amendment isn’t ‘null and void.’ Here’s why
Five Idaho attorneys general since 1989 have been asked to analyze a constitutional provision that bars religious schools from getting state funds.
Statehouse roundup, 1.17.24: Little threatens Empowering Parents cut after conservative revenue forecast
One of Gov. Brad Little’s showpiece education programs could be slashed, after lawmakers recommended a conservative revenue forecast for the upcoming fiscal year. Alex Adams, Little’s budget chief, told the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee Wednesday that the Empowering Parents program cut is one of a few reductions needed to trim about $100 million from the governor’s…
Statehouse roundup, 1.16.24: The year’s first budget bills surface
(UPDATED, 4:28 p.m., with clarifications on the scholarship rules considered Tuesday.) The Legislature’s budget-writing committee began spending money Tuesday. Divided on party lines, the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee approved “maintenance” budgets for K-12, higher education and other state agencies. These maintenance budgets include nearly $3.1 billion for public schools and $684 million for the college and…