Your Daily Briefing – 01/24/2025

Southern Idaho News Roundup

Law Enforcement Denies School Immigration Roundup Rumors

Southern Idaho law enforcement agencies are addressing rumors of immigration roundups at schools. Twin Falls and Lincoln County Sheriffs confirmed they will not detain undocumented children in schools. This comes as federal policy changes allow immigration arrests in sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, and churches.

Idaho House Speaker Proposes Major Tax Cuts

Idaho House Speaker Mike Moyle proposed a sweeping $253 million tax relief plan. Key provisions include:

Reducing income tax rates to 5.3%.
Exempting military pensions from taxation.
Eliminating capital gains tax on gold sales.

This is the first of three proposed tax bills, with lawmakers targeting $350–$400 million in relief this session.

BLM Pauses Taurus Wind and Snake River Solar Feedback

The Bureau of Land Management in Idaho has paused public forums and the feedback process for the Taurus Wind and Snake River Solar projects. The delay is attributed to recent Executive Orders. Updates will be provided as guidance becomes available.

Snowpack Concerns Signal Potential Drought

Idaho’s snowpack currently sits at 52%, below the February 1 benchmark of 60%, raising concerns about potential drought. Eastern and Southern Idaho are drier compared to last year. Officials warn that a continued lack of storms could worsen conditions, though reservoir levels remain normal for now.

Flag Display Bills Advance in Idaho Legislature

Idaho lawmakers are advancing controversial flag display bills:

Rep. Heather Scott: Proposed restricting flags displayed on government properties.
Rep. Ted Hill: Updated his bill to allow foreign flags in schools unless associated with hostile nations.

Both measures have cleared committees and are moving forward.

Scam Alert: Idaho Falls Fire Department

The Idaho Falls Fire Department warns of a scam targeting residents. Scammers demand photos of fire equipment and immediate payments over the phone. The department emphasizes that they never request immediate payments or personal information.

Jerome County Sheriff Investigates Apparent Murder-Suicide

Authorities identified two deceased individuals found at a trucking facility on January 14:

Brooke Schaer (31) of Gooding fatally shot Sheyenne Schaer (29) of Jerome before taking his own life.
The investigation remains ongoing.

IRS and Idaho State Tax Commission Set to Process Returns

Tax season begins January 27 as the IRS and Idaho State Tax Commission start processing returns. Idaho offers a free direct file program with income and residency restrictions. Taxpayers are encouraged to double-check returns to avoid delays. The filing deadline is April 15.

High School Hoops Recap

Boys’ Basketball Highlights

Filer 52, Buhl 45: Bryce Thomas scored 18 points; Zach Azevedo led Buhl with 12 points.
Burley 66, Wood River 45: Nash Gillette posted 19 points.
Other Winners: Twin Falls, Canyon Ridge, Wendell, Dietrich, and Camas County.

Girls’ Basketball Highlights

Kimberly 66, Gooding 47: Taya Plew led with 18 points.
Oakley 50, Hagerman 12: Oakley remains undefeated.
Close Contest: Dietrich edged Carey 36-33.
Additional Standouts: Brooke Bingham and Joanie Lewis posted impressive performances.

47th Annual CSI Boxing Smoker Returns

The College of Southern Idaho’s annual Boxing Smoker fundraiser is set for tomorrow night at the CSI Expo Center in Twin Falls. Featuring 30 fighters and 15 bouts, the event supports the CSI rodeo team, often raising $40,000 in a single evening.

College Basketball Update

CSI Men: Defeated No. 24 Salt Lake 86-81, improving to 17-4 overall.
CSI Women: Fell to Salt Lake CC 56-53, tying for first place in conference standings.
Idaho Vandals: Both men’s and women’s teams secured key victories over Northern Colorado.
Idaho State Men: Lost to Sacramento State 75-71 despite a strong 25-point showing from Dylan Darling.