Idaho

What Are the Budget Issues Facing Idaho?

In 2009, Idaho faces a $131 million budget gap representing 7.4% of the general fund. In 2010, Idaho is looking at an even greater $411 million shortfall, 13.9% of the general fund.

What the Federal Stimulus Proposal Will Mean for Children in Idaho

The economic stimulus recently passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by the Obama Administration will provide significant investment in the health, education, and safety of America’s children over the next two years. It also provides significant support to their parents and grandparents. Highlights include:

• $300,000,000 in relief for Idaho’s Medicaid costs. Medicaid provides health care coverage for low-income children and seniors.
• $201,700,000 in relief to the state of Idaho to prevent cuts to programs for school-aged children.
• $44,800,000 for the Title I academic achievement of the disadvantaged program.
• $55,700,000 services to children with disabilities in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
• $10,100,000 for other education programs in Idaho’s schools.
• $65,000,000 in food stamps for 116,000 Idaho men, women, and children.
• $5,000,000 in emergency shelter grants for 1,300 households.
• 77,000 Idaho children will benefit from the child tax credit provisions of the legislation.
• $11,946,498 in Emergency Child Care and Development Block Grant funds to provide child care to 2,960 Idaho children.
• An increase in unemployment benefits to 111,057 Idaho families.
• $5,400,000 in additional child support enforcement matching funds.
• $2,900,000 in youth training employment services.

How Have Idaho’s Senators Have Voted on Important Children’s Legislation in 2009?
James Risch (R)

Michael Crapo (R)

Sources: State Budget Information, Stimulus Information