Latest News in Pullman, WA

Rep. Mike Simpson, other House GOP say they will kill Big Beautiful Bill if it includes land sell-off provision

Five Republican congressmen, including Mike Simpson and Dan Newhouse, oppose a budget bill if it includes a public land sell-off provision proposed by Senator Mike Lee. They assert that selling federal lands is not the solution to mismanagement and threaten to vote against the bill if it reaches the House with that provision. The bill's fate remains uncertain as the Senate parliamentarian reviews its compliance with legislative rules.

Sen. Lee scales back public lands sell-off

Sen. Mike Lee proposed a scaled-back federal land sell-off that could auction off between 222,500 and 445,000 acres. Despite adjustments, opposition remains strong, with conservation groups mobilizing against the plan. Lee argues the initiative aims to address housing shortages in western states.

Looking back at Breakheart Pass

Hollywood filmed “Breakheart Pass” in north central Idaho fifty years ago, leaving a significant impact on the local community. The film crew engaged with residents, culminating in a U.S. premiere attended by Idaho dignitaries. To commemorate the anniversary, the local Tribune invites residents to share their stories related to the film.

UIs Residence Hall Association wins top national award

The University of Idaho's Residence Hall Association received the 2025 School of the Year award from the National Association of College and University Residence Halls. This recognition highlights the RHA's efforts in student engagement and programming, including over 30 student-led initiatives.

Judge rules that Kohberger trial will start with only slight delay

Bryan Kohberger's trial will commence on August 18 in Boise after the court denied his request for a delay. Jury selection begins August 4, while evidence related to potential alternate perpetrators remains inadmissible. Kohberger faces charges for the November 2022 murder of four University of Idaho students.

Spokane company says it can install solar panel at four school facilities with no cost to district

Pullman Public Schools is evaluating a proposal to install solar panels at four facilities at no cost to the district, backed by a power purchase agreement from Spokane's Zero Emissions Northwest. The project, estimated at $1.5 million, could save the district nearly $3.5 million over 30 years. Board members will decide on the proposal in a future meeting.

Medicaid funding for clinics that provide abortions at risk

The Republican budget reconciliation bill threatens to cut Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood and similar clinics that provide abortions. In 2023, approximately 39% of Planned Parenthood's revenue came from government reimbursements, crucial for a range of health services, including STI screenings and cancer screenings. The potential cuts could significantly impact healthcare access for low-income patients in Washington state.

Sen. Mike Lee struggles to revive reeling land sell-off proposal

Republican Sen. Mike Lee struggles to advance his proposal to sell three million acres of public land after facing procedural setbacks and public backlash. The Senate Parliamentarian's ruling could subject the measure to a filibuster, while a coalition of 45 hunting and fishing brands urges lawmakers to reject the land sale.

Public can help decide future of Moscow, Troy highways

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is considering proposals for a new highway route and ring roads to improve traffic flow between Moscow and Troy. Public feedback will guide ITD's plans to address congestion and safety issues over the next 25 years.

Idaho Roadless Rule wont be affected by revocation of national directive

The Trump administration will not revoke Idaho's state-specific roadless rule, which allows limited logging and road building in certain areas. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced plans to rescind the national roadless rule, impacting 58 million acres, but Idaho's rule remains intact due to its unique provisions.