Idaho state revenue up from 2024 but 141M below projections

Pullman, WALocal News

Idaho's state revenue increased slightly from last year, but it remains $141. 5 million below projections set by the Legislature. Individual income tax collections through May rose by $187. 4 million, while corporate income taxes increased by $30. 9 million.

However, diversions of sales tax revenue have caused a significant decline in general fund distributions, totaling $84. 5 million less than last year. The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) adopted a revenue estimate of nearly $6 billion, which was $42. 2 million higher than the governor's forecast. Despite these figures, the Division of Financial Management noted a revenue shortfall of $99 million against actual collections.

Governor Little's budget chief highlighted the state's economic resilience and responsible budgeting, but some legislators worry that recent tax cuts could harm vital services. Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow cautioned against prioritizing tax cuts over essential funding for education and healthcare. JFAC Co-Chairperson Wendy Horman expressed optimism about the overall revenue growth, citing the state's historic revenue levels in recent years.

Related Articles

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.