By Christina Lords | Editor-in-Chief
“We’re entering a more challenging period of the 2026 fire season as conditions continue to dry across the state. The significant wildland fire potential outlook indicates above average fire potential statewide through August and September.” - Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller
A smoke column billows over rangeland near South Mountain in Idaho. (Photo courtesy of InciWeb)
ENVIRONMENT
Idaho has spent $31 million on firefighting while nearly 700K acres have burned statewide
By Laura Guido
Land board members also voted to approve an increase in the surcharge paid on property tax assessments for forested land with residential structures on them.
The exterior of the Idaho Statehouse as seen on March 16, 2026, in Boise. (Photo by Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)
GOVERNMENT + POLITICS
Idaho state budget’s revenue outlook improves for new fiscal year
By Laura Guido
Individual income tax, sales tax and miscellaneous revenue all came in above the forecast. Corporate income tax collections were $15.9 million lower than projected, according to the report.
The exterior of the Idaho Supreme Court building in Boise as seen on Jan. 14, 2026. (Photo by Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)
COURTS + POLICING
Governor appoints justice to Idaho Supreme Court to fill upcoming vacancy
By Kyle Pfannenstiel
Idaho Gov. Brad Little named an Idaho Supreme Court justice to fill a vacancy left by the retiring chief justice.
MORE REGIONAL AND NATIONAL NEWS FROM US
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Dozens of cities and counties sue fire truck makers over soaring costs, delivery delays | Anna Claire Vollers
ICYMI
Shining a light on other Idaho politics reporting
Note: Some links may lead to stories behind a news organization's paywall
InvestigateWest: Idaho county’s probation office compiles ‘foreign born list’ for ICE
Valley Lookout: ‘Lofty goal’: McCall eyes land around airport for purchase
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