HEADLINES
Mike Simpson: Idaho’s Dairy Industry Needs Undocumented Workers
Republican Congressman Mike Simpson wants Idaho to surpass Wisconsin as the No. 2 dairy-producing state but says this isn’t possible without undocumented workers. He has proposed a pathway to citizenship three times since 2019, but critics in his party call it “amnesty.” Meanwhile, lawmakers like Jordan Redman are considering requiring employers to verify workers’ immigration status, a measure dairy representatives say could harm the industry.
Governor Signs SPEED Act
Governor Brad Little signed the SPEED Act to streamline permitting for large projects like energy, mining, and water facilities. The SPEED Council will expedite reviews, boost collaboration, and reduce bureaucracy. Lt. Governor Scott Bedke will advise the council.
Idaho Unemployment Rises
Idaho’s unemployment rate rose to 3.8% in December, up from 3.7% in November and 3.3% a year ago. The labor force surpassed one million, with 962,943 employed. Nonfarm jobs grew by 3,000, with gains in accommodation, education, and government sectors. Manufacturing and finance saw declines.
I-15 Crash Near Pocatello
Idaho State Police are investigating a crash south of Pocatello that injured six people Friday. One car rear-ended another near milepost 65, where traffic was reduced to one lane from an earlier accident.
Pro-Life Rally in Boise
Over 1,000 people joined a pro-life rally in Boise, walking from Julia Davis Park to the Statehouse. The event was organized by Right to Life.
UTV Falls Through Ice at Payette Lake
A UTV plunged into Payette Lake near McCall after the ice gave way Saturday. Officials remind everyone: no ice is 100% safe—exercise caution.
Medicaid Repeal Proposal
Idaho lawmakers introduced House Bill 58 to repeal voter-approved Medicaid expansion, citing affordability concerns. The House Health and Welfare Committee approved its introduction along party lines.
LGBTQ+ Advocates Rally
Dozens of LGBTQ+ advocates rallied at the Capitol, protesting a petition urging the Supreme Court to overturn same-sex marriage rights.
SPORTS
High School Basketball Highlights
- Filer beat Canyon Ridge 55-46, while Burley defeated Twin Falls 61-48.
- Jerome girls cruised past Minico 56-22, improving to 14-5.
- Declo boys remained undefeated, beating Malad 49-34.
CSI Teams in Action
- CSI baseball suffered an 8-7 loss to Pima CC, dropping to 0-4.
- CSI softball swept Saturday’s doubleheader, defeating Spoon River and Northeastern.
- The CSI women’s basketball team beat Colorado Northwestern 67-46, led by Kennedy Gillette with 27 points.
- CSI men edged Colorado Northwestern 83-82 in double overtime, with Marcus Fizer Jr. sealing the win.
Idaho College Basketball Results
- Idaho men lost to Northern Arizona 80-72.
- Idaho women fell 106-76 to Northern Arizona.
- Idaho State men lost to Portland State 76-59.
WEATHER
This Week’s Forecast
- Today: Sunny, high 32°F. Tonight: Mostly clear, low 14°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 36°F. Clear at night, low 16°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 39°F.
- Weekend: Rain likely Saturday and Sunday with highs in the mid-40s to low 50s.
- Your Daily Briefing – 30 de Enero 2025 - January 30, 2025
- Your Daily Briefing – 01/29/2025 - January 29, 2025
- Your Daily Briefing – 01/28/2025 - January 28, 2025