With lawmakers hoping to adjourn the 2023 legislative session by the end of the week, several education issues remain on the to-do list.
Legislature
Senate passes Idaho Launch bills, as incentive plan nears finish line
The program, one of Gov. Brad Little’s top education priorities, would allow high school graduates to receive up to $8,000 to attend community college, pursue a career-technical education certificate or complete workforce training.
Statehouse roundup, 3.22.23: Tuition credit bill stalls, leaving school choice debate on ice
Sponsors pulled the $12 million-a-year pilot bill from the House Education Committee’s agenda. The abrupt move could also bring the Legislature’s protracted debate over school choice to a grinding halt.
Analysis: The Legislature changes the rules on building schools … for better or worse
The tradeoff for schools: Give up one of your four election dates — a crucial one — in exchange for $100 million. And the possibility of more money down the road, but there are no guarantees.
Statehouse roundup, 3.21.23: Last-minute school choice bill debuts
In other news, budget writers moved two ‘trailer bills’ out of neutral and Idaho students earn a victory with their dinosaur bill.
Senate signs off on property tax overhaul
The bill would provide $100 million for school districts to put into property tax relief — but eliminate the March school election date. The bill now goes to Gov. Brad Little.
Statehouse roundup, 3.20.23: Library bill heads to Senate after two-hour debate
In other news, find updates on the private school tuition bill, university building projects and the “In God We Trust” bill.
Statehouse roundup, 3.17.23: Private school tuition bill ends week in legislative limbo
In other Friday news, get the latest on a lawsuit over a newly passed elections law, and an update on a bill to help teachers pay for classroom supplies.
Restraints bill heads to floor for possible amendment
“I regret every single bit of it to this day,” said one teacher, who admitted to restraining a student years ago.
Analysis: Private tuition bill passes one milestone, but it faces an uncertain path
For the first time, the Idaho Senate has said yes to putting public dollars into private school tuition. Now, the proposal is likely to go to a skeptical House Education Committee.