Idaho’s Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC) has voted unanimously to accept a report that finds Governor Otter’s revenue forecast for the next fiscal year to be accurate. The Joint Economic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee held two days of hearings about revenue projection before agreeing with the Governor’s estimate of $3.12 billion in state tax revenue. That figure represents a 5.5% increase over last year, while Otter’s spending proposal calls for a 5.2% increase in expenditures for the upcoming year.
The Joint Economic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee is co-chaired by Sen. Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint, and Rep. Marc Gibbs, R-Grace. Members of this committee were also allowed to present their own revenue estimates, which ranged from a low of 3.7% to a high of 6.0%. Ultimately, the committee voted 13-3 to accept the Governor’s projection and send their report on to JFAC. The next step will be for the legislature to determine how to divide the expected revenue to address the needs of the state, including how much money will be devoted to public education.
MLK Holiday
In addition to observing Monday’s Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday with a special program, the legislature will be meeting in committees to move forward on budgeting and other business. A march from the Boise State campus to the capitol will commemorate the legacy of the civil rights movement.
Political Action Committee for Education (PACE)
Every day, decisions are made at the Capitol that have a direct impact on our profession, our livelihoods and our families. The Political Action Committee for Education (PACE) is the IEA’s collective voice in Idaho politics; at the Capitol and in elections throughout the state. IEA members can contribute to the Political Action Committee for Education by clicking here. PACE contributions are used to elect strong advocates for education and inform the public of important education issues. Make your voice heard by becoming a PACE contributor.
