Legislative Session 2025 Week #12

As we approach Sine Die, I’ve taken time this week to reflect on the wins, lessons, and areas for growth from this year’s legislative session. Among the most significant victories was the passage of House Bill 445, which establishes ongoing funding for water infrastructure projects across Idaho. This is likely the single most impactful piece of legislation we passed this year—an investment not just in today's needs, but in the long-term stability and sustainability of our state's most critical natural resource.

I was also proud to join Governor Little at the signing ceremony for House Bill 134, which improves access to early breast cancer detection for women throughout Idaho. This bill will save lives. In a moving show of solidarity, several of us in the legislature shaved our heads in support of a colleague beginning chemotherapy for her own breast cancer journey. It was a powerful reminder that public service is as much about compassion and humanity as it is about policy. I still catch myself by surprise when I look in the mirror and see a bald man looking back. 

On the budget front, funding for public school facilities, the Idaho Digital Learning Academy, and the Departments of Lands and Finance all advanced. These are vital pieces that will support education, responsible land management, and financial stewardship. However, I was disappointed to see House Bill 443 fail. It would have strengthened a fund to incentivize private investment into Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs—something I believe is still worth pursuing in the future.

This year, I saw once again how some of the most effective legislation comes directly from conversations with people back home. Many of the ideas I’ve carried forward—including bills now signed into law—began with a concern raised at a town hall, a message sent via email, or a simple conversation. Your input makes a real difference.

That said, not everything went the way I hoped. I was disappointed in the slow pace and lack of transparency from the budget process this year. Decisions were slower, and the public—and even some legislators—had less visibility into negotiations than I believe is healthy for a functional democratic process. It’s an area where we must do better.

I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve District 35. Thank you for staying engaged, for reaching out, and for keeping me grounded in the values and needs of our community.

Sincerely,
Josh Wheeler
Idaho State Representative, District 35