BOISE, Idaho — Governor Brad Little opened the 2024 legislative session and delivered the Idaho State of the State address at the Idaho State Capitol at 1 pm on Jan. 8th.
The Republican governor's speech covered his roadmap for the state, including a focus on education, infrastructure, and tax relief in the Gem State. In his 6th address to the state, Governor Little emphasized his confidence in his approach to governing the state over the past few years.
“When we look back at what we’ve done over the past six years, I can’t believe it was ever possible. We made decisions that positioned our state to propel ahead in our economic performance. We strategically and thoughtfully deployed relief funds and balanced the needs of our growing state with returning more money back to the people of Idaho than ever before. What Idaho is doing is WORKING. There’s no need to change course, and we must raise the bar,” Governor Little said.
The governor presented his IDAHO WORKS plan at the address. Some of the highlights in the plan include the largest investment into school facilities in state history – a $2 billion investment over 10 years which aims to ensure all districts in the state have the resources necessary to empower Idaho students.
Also among the highlights in the IDAHO WORKS plan were increases to funding for the Idaho LAUNCH program, Idaho's water infrastructure and continued quagga mussel treatment, and Idaho's roadways and bridges.
Governor Little closed out his address by paying respects to former Idaho Governor Phil Batt who died in March of 2023. The governor said Batt was the epitome of a public servant.
"Let us all aspire to leave a legacy like Governor Batt – a legacy that will outlive us
all. God bless Idaho," said Governor Little as he closed out his address.
The Idaho Democrats are expected to give a speech at 2:45 on Jan. 8 following the afternoon address.
