Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1197 makes multiple adjustments to the Idaho State Police budget for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. For FY 2026, it appropriates $16.44 million in new funding across several divisions, including Patrol, Investigations, Forensics, and Capitol Protective Services. At the same time, it reduces overall funding authority by $8.18 million across various programs and cuts 7.67 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. For FY 2025, it provides a $268,100 supplemental appropriation to the Patrol Program. The bill also requires the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council to submit a comprehensive report by December 1, 2025, evaluating local funding models, retention strategies, and structural reforms for officer training and contracts. The bill includes an emergency clause, effective July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
S1197 advances Idaho Republican Party Platform goals by achieving a net reduction in state government spending and staffing while prioritizing frontline law enforcement capabilities. It streamlines agency operations, eliminates nearly eight government positions, and imposes downward pressure on the size of state bureaucracy. Importantly, it mandates a structural review of Idaho’s police training systems, with a focus on local funding, contractual service obligations, and long-term efficiency—demonstrating a commitment to accountability and conservative reform. The bill balances public safety needs with cost control and administrative restraint, making it consistent with platform principles and deserving of a positive rating.