STATE NEWS
Governor Little Pushes Public Defender Budget Increase
Idaho Governor Brad Little supports boosting the State Public Defender’s Office budget for this fiscal year and 2026. The state agency, formed in October, faced funding shortfalls after replacing the county-based system. His total 2026 budget proposal of $88 million reflects a 70% increase from the agency’s original funding.
Idaho Firefighters Aid California Wildfires
Idaho is sending 104 firefighters and 25 fire engines to assist with wildfires in Southern California. The task forces, which include firefighters from multiple departments, are mobilizing today to provide critical support.
GOP Measures Spark Controversy
Idaho GOP lawmakers have introduced two measures sparking backlash. A House Joint Memorial calls on the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse Obergefell v. Hodges, redefining marriage. A resolution criticizes transgender inclusion in women’s sports, citing Boise State Volleyball. Critics, including Boise Pride and Democratic leaders, call the moves discriminatory and harmful.
Respiratory Illnesses Rising in Idaho
Respiratory illnesses, including RSV, flu, and COVID-19, are climbing in Idaho, with at least 13 deaths reported. Health officials expect cases to peak in December or January, with influenza causing the most hospital visits this season.
Governor Criticizes Grizzly Protections
Idaho Governor Brad Little criticized the Biden Administration for refusing to remove grizzly bears from the endangered species list, despite years of recovery progress. Governor Little instructed state agencies to review the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s decision and reaffirmed Idaho’s 2023 lawsuit challenging federal inaction on the issue.
Spanish-Speaking Refugees on the Rise
Spanish is now a top language for Idaho refugee arrivals, driven by a rise in Latin American refugees, according to the Idaho Office for Refugees. Policy changes under President Biden boosted this trend, but experts warn that a new administration, such as one adopting Trump’s anti-refugee stance, could reverse it.
Child Welfare System Boost Proposed
Governor Little’s budget request includes nearly $10 million to boost Idaho’s child welfare system, marking the largest increase in state history. The funds aim to prevent foster care placements, support foster families, and hire more caseworkers. Idaho’s foster family capacity has risen from 74 to 94 families per 100 children since last June, with goals to double by 2026.
SPORTS
Southern Idaho Basketball Thrills Fans
In boys’ 2A basketball, Hagerman dominated Sun Valley 81-36, led by Ky Kendall’s standout performance with 23 points, seven steals, and five assists. Raft River edged Murtaugh 56-55 in a nail-biting finish, while Valley cruised past Lighthouse Christian 68-12.
On the girls’ side, Canyon Ridge narrowly defeated Buhl 47-44. In 5A matchups, Burley edged Twin Falls 46-44, with Ady Olmos scoring 13 points, and Jerome beat Minico 59-44. In 4A play, Kimberly secured a 39-16 victory over Wood River, led by strong performances from Taya Plew and Berkley Dille.
Bowling Highlights from Jerome Tiger Zone
Filer dominated at the Jerome Tiger Zone bowling competition, taking first place in both Varsity Boys and JV categories. The Varsity Boys team posted 2,046 pins, with Breyden Bunderson from Gooding achieving the top individual score of 201. Wendell’s girls won the Varsity title with 1,690 pins, led by Gabi Knight’s high score of 138. In JV action, Filer topped the leaderboard with 1,803 pins, while Drayson from Filer rolled the highest score at 149.
College Basketball Excitement
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) Men’s Basketball Team edged Salt Lake CC 79-71 in overtime. Khayri Dunn tied the game late in regulation and led the Golden Eagles in overtime with 18 points. CSI dominated the boards, out-rebounding Salt Lake 57-39. They host Colorado Northwestern this Saturday.
The No. 8 CSI Women’s Basketball Team defeated No. 19 Salt Lake CC 61-58. The Golden Eagles rallied from an 8-point deficit with strong fourth-quarter defense, outscoring the Bruins 22-17. Samara Morrow led the team with 15 points. CSI will also host Colorado Northwestern on Saturday.
Avalanche Rescue in Salmon River Drainage
A snowmobiler is alive after being completely buried in an avalanche over the weekend in the Salmon River drainage. Three snowmobilers triggered the avalanche, and one rider deployed his airbag as he was carried through the trees. He was buried for 15 minutes before being rescued by the other riders. Avalanche danger is currently moderate in the Sawtooths.
Wildlife Habitat Restoration Grant
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has awarded over $400,000 to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever to combat invasive grasses in Idaho. The funds will help the Idaho Cheatgrass Challenge Team restore 21,000 acres using herbicides, seeding, and grazing management. Since 2019, the program has treated nearly 50,000 acres, improving wildlife habitat and grazing opportunities.
WEATHER
Today: Patchy fog before 11 AM, then mostly cloudy with increasing sunshine. High near 36°F. Light north-northwest winds.
Tonight: Mostly clear with a low around 23°F and light, variable winds.
Friday: Partly sunny with a high near 40°F. Calm winds turning east-northeast at 5-7 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night: A 40% chance of snow, mostly before 11 PM. Light and variable winds becoming west at 12-17 mph after midnight, with gusts up to 30 mph.
Weekend:
- Saturday: Mostly sunny with a high near 35°F. Gusty west winds up to 33 mph.
- Saturday Night: Partly cloudy with a low near 24°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny with a high near 36°F.
- Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy with a low around 22°F.
Extended Forecast:
Monday and Tuesday will remain chilly but sunny, with highs in the mid-30s and lows in the teens. Stay prepared for winter weather conditions!
- Your Daily Briefing – 01/08/2025 - January 9, 2025
- Your Daily Briefing – January 8, 2025 - January 8, 2025
- Your Daily Briefing – 7 de Enero 2025 - January 7, 2025
