Legislative Update-- Rep. Josh Wheeler
As the 2025 legislative session concludes, I am grateful for the trust placed in me to represent the people of District 35. This session brought meaningful accomplishments, thoughtful debate, and—at times—difficult decisions. I write today to report on what we achieved, where challenges remain, and what comes next as I continue to serve you throughout the year.
One of the most impactful successes of this session was the passage of House Bill 445, which provides ongoing investment in water infrastructure projects across our state. This long-term commitment will protect and strengthen Idaho’s most essential natural resource. We also passed historic tax relief, returning hard-earned dollars to Idahoans and reinforcing our commitment to fiscal responsibility.
On a personal note, I was honored to see several of my bills signed into law. House Bill 242 offers incentives for medical preceptors to help train Idaho’s next generation of healthcare professionals—a step forward in strengthening rural healthcare. House Bill 266 modernizes building inspection processes, streamlining pathways for development and reducing unnecessary burdens.
One of the most moving and unifying moments of the session came through House Bill 134, a bipartisan effort to improve early breast cancer screening access for women. I was privileged to co-sponsor this important bill and to stand with colleagues in a gesture of solidarity and compassion by shaving my head alongside a fellow legislator undergoing chemotherapy.
There were, however, moments of disappointment. A bill I opposed earlier in the session, SB 1023, which was rightly vetoed by the governor, returned in a new form of SB 1210 without properly addressing concerns about overreach into private business rights. I remain concerned that these efforts, while claiming to protect individual liberties, do so at the expense of the rights of Idaho’s employers and property owners.
Despite these setbacks, I remain optimistic. The work we began in the Health & Welfare Committee lays the groundwork for a more sustainable Medicaid program, and I am honored to serve on the Medicaid Review Task Force as we work toward that goal.
As I return to the district, I will be prioritizing visits to the many fine communities I represent. I look forward to meeting with constituents, visiting schools, and listening closely to how we can continue the evolution of public education. I invite you to consider the following:
• What is the purpose of public education today?
• How do we define success?
• How do we begin to restore trust in a system so vital to our communities and our democracy?
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve. I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and carrying your voice forward.
Sincerely,
Josh Wheeler
Idaho State Representative,
District 35
