Jason Mercier

Jason Mercier is Vice President and Director of Research for the Mountain States Policy Center, an independent free-market research organization based in Idaho, Montana, Eastern Washington and Wyoming. Online at mountainstatespolicy.org.

Idaho’s ‘C.O.W.’ problem is great for economic growth

No state in the nation has delivered more tax relief per capita than Idaho.

Governor Little: “Idaho will further improve government efficiency and reduce government spending”

Some of this uncertainty about the tariff tax increases may clear up soon.

Why Idaho’s fiscal health remains strong

There is no denying that there are economic headwinds facing state budgets across the country.

Idaho bills would provide traditional public schools more flexibility to innovate

There is a major case study we can review to see what the impact of these types of changes could be.

Defending our right to open government from bad actors

Authorizing an open government ombudsman is one of the recommendations from our Policy Manual.

Idaho legislature adopts significant income tax savings

There have been some complaints that these income tax reductions only benefit the wealthy.

Are changes needed to Idaho’s initiative process?

The ability to directly propose laws is an awesome and important constitutional right of the people in Idaho.

Idaho lawmakers should make it easier for citizens to participate during the session

Ready or not Idaho’s 2025 Legislative Session starts on January 6. Many important policies will be considered ranging from education choice to tax reform. There will also likely be a surprise or two. It is of paramount importance for Idahoans to have the ability to be actively involved and heard by their elected officials during…

Idaho should reform its ballot fiscal impact statement process

The need for this type of reform came into clear focus with the most recent debate surrounding Proposition 1.

The main policy event is after the election

No doubt there will be an equal number of us feeling hope or despair after the ballots are counted.