We respectfully urge Governor Little to veto House Bill 93. In the State of the State address, Governor Little stated that any school choice legislation must be done the “Idaho Way,” adhering to principles of fairness, responsibility, transparency, and accountability while prioritizing families who need support the most. House Bill 93 fails to meet these fundamental criteria.
This bill lacks meaningful safeguards to ensure public funds are used responsibly and equitably. It does not include mechanisms for transparency or accountability, leaving taxpayer dollars vulnerable to misuse with little oversight. Furthermore, rather than prioritizing families with the greatest need, HB 93 creates a broad, unregulated program that could disproportionately benefit those who already have access to alternative education options, widening existing educational disparities rather than closing them.
Public education in Idaho has long been built on the principle of supporting every student, regardless of background or financial status. House Bill 93 undermines that principle by diverting critical resources away from public schools—institutions that serve the vast majority of Idaho families. With ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining educators, funding essential student services, and maintaining school facilities, our focus should remain on strengthening our existing public education system rather than undermining it.
Governor Little has built his legacy on championing public education. Under his leadership, Idaho has made historic school investments, increased teacher pay, and expanded student opportunities. House Bill 93 has the potential to undo all of that progress, jeopardizing the strong foundation he has worked so hard to build. Upholding the standards outlined in the State of the State address is essential to ensuring that education policy truly serves the best interests of all Idahoans.
It is also important to note that many legislators, including those representing Ririe, voted against House Bill 93, recognizing the harm it poses to our public schools and communities. Unfortunately, they will likely face severe challenges in the next election cycle due to the influence of big money from out-of-state interests seeking to reshape Idaho’s education system. Idaho is not for sale; outside money should not dictate our elections or laws. This is Idaho. Our policies should reflect the values and priorities of those who live and work here, not outside special interest groups.
Governor Little, we urge you to honor your commitment and stand with the legislators who stood with you by sending a strong and decisive message with a veto of House Bill 93. The legislature must return with a bill that includes fairness, responsibility, transparency, and accountability—ensuring taxpayer dollars are tracked, student learning outcomes are measured, and professional educators operate under responsible oversight. These are not unreasonable expectations; they are essential safeguards. If school choice is to be done the “Idaho Way,” it must reflect the principles you set forth, not an unchecked system that lacks oversight and fiscal integrity.
For these reasons, we respectfully ask you to veto House Bill 93. We appreciate your leadership and dedication to our great state.
Sincerely,
Ririe superintendent Jeff Gee
and
Ririe School District Board of Trustees
Brigham Cook (Board Chair)
Angela Reed (Vice Chair)
Megan Coles (Assistant Treasurer)
Mike Hansen (Trustee)
Dallin Howell (Trustee)
