Gov. Little calls on agencies to cut budgets

Idaho Governor Brad Little has mandated a 3% budget cut across state agencies, excluding public schools, to be completed by June 2026. The executive order instructs agencies to review their operations for potential consolidation, eliminate long-vacant positions, and limit travel expenses. Little framed the cuts as part of a commitment to balancing the budget while prioritizing education. The Idaho Legislature had previously approved substantial tax cuts, projected to reduce revenues significantly. In June, state revenue fell short of legislative projections, raising concerns about fiscal health.

Critics, including the Idaho Democratic Party and the Idaho Education Association, argue that these cuts threaten vital services and the quality of education. They contend that the tax cuts disproportionately benefit the wealthy while undermining support for working families. Republican leaders, however, praised the governor's order as a necessary step toward efficient governance.