By Christina Lords | Editor-in-Chief
“This achievement demonstrates effective program oversight, sound operational practices, and a continued focus on serving Idahoans with integrity. Maintaining payment accuracy helps protect program resources while ensuring that individuals and families receive the assistance they need in a timely manner.” - Idaho Department of Health and Welfare spokesperson AJ McWhorter, on Idaho’s low food assistance error rate
A shopper who receives SNAP benefits slides an EBT card at a checkout counter in a Washington, D.C., grocery store in December 2024. (Photo by U.S. Department of Agriculture)
GOVERNMENT + POLITICS
Idaho has second-lowest error rate in nation for SNAP payments
By Laura Guido
Idaho has continued its record of accurately paying out federal financial food assistance.
The Gem State last fiscal year had the second-lowest rate in the nation for payment errors in administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, according to data released Wednesday.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation began the process for acquiring and setting up Twin Peaks Ranch State Park near Salmon at the end of 2024. (Photo courtesy of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation)
ENVIRONMENT
Idaho unveils new state park with ‘endless outdoor recreation opportunities’ in Salmon area
By Valentin Termite
The park, located 20 miles outside Salmon, covers 677 acres of camping grounds, trails, rental units and access to public lands for visitors.
State legislator Scott Herndon told Idaho EdNews that his plan doesn’t call for increasing sales or income tax rates. (Photo courtesy of Idaho EdNews)
GOVERNMENT + POLITICS
Idaho GOP plan would eliminate property taxes — and leave schools with $400M funding gap
By Sean Dolan
If the Idaho Legislature follows Scott Herndon’s plan for eliminating property taxes, public schools would miss out on over $400 million.
Herndon, who in May won his primary election against Sen. Jim Woodward, R-Sagle, said he wants to get back to the founders’ original vision for America: true private property ownership.
The Wassmuth Center’s H-RISE youth leaders crossed the world to understand how human rights are stripped away, and how they are built back — the culmination of a year spent studying human rights and Cambodian history, writes guest columnist Jess Westhoff. (Photo courtesy of the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights)
COMMENTARY
The ground in front of you: How the Wassmuth Center’s H-RISE program teaches Idaho students dignity
By Jess Westhoff
Our youth leaders crossed the world to understand how human rights are stripped away, and how they are built back, writes guest columnist Jess Westhoff.
MORE REGIONAL NEWS FROM US
MORE NATIONAL NEWS FROM US
Trump spikes bipartisan housing bill at last minute, refusing to sign until SAVE America Act passes | Jacob Fischler and Jennifer Shutt
ICYMI
Shining a light on other Idaho politics reporting
Note: Some links may lead to stories behind a news organization's paywall
Coeur d’Alene Press: Zimmerman, Corkill to run for reelection to NIC board
Local News 8: Victor mayor announces resignation amid recall effort
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