Legislative Update-- Rep. Josh Wheeler

This past week at the Capitol was a reminder that the legislative process is often a long and winding road, but one that can ultimately lead to better solutions for Idaho.

House Bill 345 came forward this week, as a compromise alternative to House Bill 138.This is a more balanced reform bill. It was very informative to hear from healthcare providers and citizens back home with questions and concerns about this bill. I firmly believe that this bill represents a more sustainable compromise, and long term will improve both the fiscal responsibility and the healthcare needs of our citizens. I’m encouraged to be serving on the Medicaid Review Panel, where I can have direct input into the implementation and contracts that will be necessary following the passage of this bill. 

What a wonderful Idaho Day, celebrating the creation of the Idaho Territory in 1863. We heard a wonderful vocal performance, and great remarks about the history of our state. One of the quotes that rang most true with me was, “Idaho embodies independence.” 

I was able to advance my electrical licensing streamlining bill forward in the Senate. And I was very grateful at the end of the week to see two of my bills advance. One incentivizing more medical rotations, and the other providing a pathway for virtual ASL interpreters to work more easily in the state. 

I was disappointed to see a bill fail on the floor that would have updated the State’s procurement process to provide added consistency and transparency. This is a conversation that we must continue, as our current system exposes the state to unnecessary potential litigation. 

One of the best bills of the week was HB 338, which created an additional funding stream for rural school facility funding and allocates $50 million for facility updates in rural public schools. In addition, House Bill 25 invests $1 billion in transportation projects over three years by leveraging the state’s strong credit rating.  

So encouraged to see the largest Tax relief bill in state history signed into law by the governor this week. I was also glad to have 3 of my bills move out of committee this week, dealing with sudden cardiac arrest awareness in student athletes, expanding access to virtual ASL interpreters in the state, and incentivizing medical preceptorships via award of continuing medical education credits. 

Hard to believe we are already into the thick of March. It’s nice to see some warmer days when I am home on the weekend. Thank you for your hard work, and for always helping me believe in and value the family of Idahoans.