Gov. Little talks about promises during State of the State address

BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Gov. Brad Little kicked off the legislative session on Monday with the annual State of the State address.

In it, the governor set his priorities; once again, education is among his top priorities.

Gov. Little discussed investing $150 million in continued funding for public schools, including more funding for teachers. He also discussed expanding Career Technical Education, with $50 million for school choice.

Gov. Little discussed why he feels the time is right for that now.

“There’s critical mass to do something, but there’s not mass agreement on how to do one thing, and that’s been the issue the last couple of years,” Gov. Little said. “I obviously, and I spelled it out just a minute ago, want some things in it. I can’t get them in it if I’m not part of the discussion.”

Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield said she supports choice and accountability but is excited about Gov. Little’s other proposed education items.

“New dollars, focusing on the places our public schools need the most, to be able to see a buildout of the career ladder, to invest in the educators who are in the classrooms teaching the kids I think is incredible, and then to add upon that the other needs that we have with mental health,” Critchfield said.

Gov. Little also spoke about continued support for critical water infrastructure in the state, which Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke said is essential.

“One of the things that’s important to our area, the Magic Valley, is the governing signaling a three times commitment,” Bedke said. “We’re going to do three times more than we are now with ongoing money to make sure that we keep the aquifer replenished and healthy.”

His other priorities include fire, public safety and property tax relief worth $150 million. As the session begins, the public will see how these priorities will be shaped over the next few months.

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