Rating: +1

Bill Summary:
H0098 creates a new section in Idaho Code (74-408) to prohibit the use of taxpayer funds to promote teachers unions. It amends multiple statutes to enforce this restriction, preventing public officials from: deducting union dues from employee paychecks; increasing compensation with the intent that funds be used for union purposes; providing employee contact information without consent; or facilitating union meetings, solicitations, or communications using public resources. The bill includes civil penalties for violations and allows school districts to invoice unions for time spent on representational union activities during paid duty hours, ensuring public funds are reimbursed. The bill further amends sections of Idaho Code related to professional employees, negotiations, definitions, and agreement terms to align with the new prohibitions. It includes a severability clause and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
H0098 aligns strongly with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s emphasis on fiscal responsibility, limited government, and transparency in public spending. By preventing public funds from being used to indirectly support political or ideological activities associated with teachers unions, the bill ensures taxpayer dollars remain focused on education—not advocacy. It restores control over payroll systems to local governments and removes automatic mechanisms that previously benefitted union agendas without voter input. These changes reinforce the Republican commitment to individual liberty, neutral governance, and public accountability.