Education
As many of you know, Idaho ranks nationally near the bottom in the number of physicians and other medical professionals per capita.
However, we know that aspiring physicians who complete their residencies in Idaho usually stay in Idaho to
practice.
The governor recommended $2.4 million to expand residency
programs in Idaho. This would create 52 new residency seats annually and is a good investment for Idahoans. While attending the WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho Regional Medical Education Program) reception, I met with Joe Ryan, a former student of mine, who hopes to stay in Idaho to practice medicine. We are lucky to have access to this program here in Idaho.
I am honored to be named to the Governor's
Higher Education Task Force
. This task force is modeled after the Governor's K-12 Task Force for Improving Education. The new task force will focus on reaching the state's goal of 60% of young adults achieving some form of
post-secondary
degree or certification. Having served on the Governor's K-12 Task Force, I am looking forward to serving on this task force as well. Our first meeting will be February 10th.
Economy
A BSU Public Policy Survey found little support for further tax cuts at this time. Most Idahoans feel it is more important to invest in other areas such as education and infrastructure.
However, Representative Mike Moyle continues to push for tax cuts. He introduced HB 67 this week. If passed, the bill will reduce general fund revenues by approximately $51.2 million. The average Idahoan will receive between $4-$32 per household, while higher income earners will receive roughly $1,562 per household. I believe that this money would be better used by investing in our children and repairing our roads and bridges to improve public safety.
Immigration
The House introduced what is known as the "anti-immigration bill." HB 76 requires law enforcement, at their discretion, to question the citizenship status of individuals they arrest. This bill harms Idaho families, rural communities, our agribusiness, and deeply impacts Idaho's economy. I believe it is government sanctioned profiling, and so I oppose this bill.
I was pleased to see that the City of Boise has reaffirmed its commitment "to being a Welcoming City and creating a community where all of our residents feel welcomed, safe, and able to fully participate in, and contribute to, our city's economic and social life." It makes me proud to represent a district where there are so many people who are willing to speak up for what is right.
Forums
Thank you to all who attended last night's District 18 Forum. Our next forum will be held on February 21st from 7-8:30 p.m. at Timberline High (701 East Boise Avenue, Boise). Our final forum of the session will be held on March 7th at East Jr. High (5600 Warm Springs Avenue).
