Rating: 0

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1173 adjusts the fiscal year 2026 appropriation for the Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections. It provides $1,732,700 in additional funding across three program areas, including $675,100 in General Funds for administration, $232,500 from the Endowment Income Fund for administrative capital outlay, $300,000 in General Funds for community and program services, and $525,100 from the Endowment Income Fund for institutional needs. To partially offset these increases, the bill reduces $675,100 in personnel funding from the Administration Division and eliminates seven full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. The bill includes an emergency clause and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
S1173 does not represent a net expansion of government but rather a reallocation of resources within an existing agency. It shifts funds from personnel costs to operational and capital needs while eliminating seven state positions, which aligns partially with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s emphasis on reducing government size. However, it does not introduce structural reforms, privatization efforts, or measurable efficiency improvements. Because it neither advances nor clearly violates platform principles, and functions as internal budget housekeeping, the bill earns a neutral rating.