We made it through the first week of the 2026 Idaho State Legislature and week #2 is already here. I am honored to return for another session, where I will continue advocating for the protection of Idaho’s freedoms. I truly appreciate the ongoing support I have received from my constituents over the past few years. My new intern, Jill Manley, provided by constituents in Idaho County and I are getting along quite well. She is quick to learn and always has a sweet smile. Thank you Idaho County!
On Monday, the 12th, Governor Little gave his State of the State address, where he brought up his reuqests regarding the Idaho State Budget for further consideration by JFAC.
A few membership changes took place this past week in the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC), of which I am a member. The previous Co-chair, Representative Wendy Horman, has left the Idaho Legislature and has been given an assignment working for the Trump Administration. Rep Josh Tanner was appointed House Co-chair and Representative Chris Bruce and Representative Kyle Harris were appointed to the committee. I look forward to collaborating with both new committee members. The committee has started to get acquainted with Idaho’s budget challenges this year and are getting to work on the challenge of a balanced budget.
I have been collaborating with House and Senate members working on draft legislation. One of my specific goals for this session will be to address a couple of major concerns regarding education issues within our state. There are concerns about IDLA (Idaho Distance Learning Academy) double dipping which is at the top of my priority list. The governor seems concerned as well because he removed 10 million dollars from IDLA’s budget as one of his a recommendations to JFAC.
As the session continues to ramp up, I will to focus on the goals of my constituents. Please keep my team and me in your prayers as we move forward. Thank you again for your encouragement and support.
Regards,
Senator Cindy Carlson
Thank you for continuing to push for fiscal restraint and efficiency.
Jill is a great person from an amazing family!
Thank you for all your time and efforts to balance the budget and to keep Idaho RED. We are so blessed to have you as our Senator.