The Idaho Legislature’s 2023 session, which began on January 9 and concluded on April 6, resulted in several legislative achievements impacting small businesses. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), sometimes collaborating with other associations, played a key role in these outcomes.
One significant achievement was the passage of House Bill 168. This bill aims to enhance the integrity of the Employment Security Program by mandating that the state Department of Labor conduct regular cross-checks using existing databases such as new hire records and death records. Governor Brad Little signed this bill into law.
House Bill 215 and House Bill 291 were also passed to regulate pharmacy benefit managers more effectively. These bills aim to create a fairer environment for independent pharmacies and increase transparency through the Fair Pharmacy Audits Act. NFIB Idaho worked alongside the Idaho State Pharmacy Association to achieve this victory.
Environmental measures were addressed with House Bills 287 and 106. These bills prevent mandates requiring electric vehicle chargers in all new constructions and prohibit local governments from restricting certain utility connections. Both bills received the governor’s signature.
Efforts to raise the minimum wage were halted with NFIB’s involvement. House Bill 48, which sought to allow local governments to set their own minimum-wage rates above federal levels, did not advance past its initial stages.
Senate Bill 1148 was another legislative success supported by NFIB, aiming for greater transparency within the judicial council by amending its membership structure. This bill was signed into law by Governor Little.
House Bill 190, also supported by NFIB, requires banks and credit unions holding state funds not boycott specific industries. This measure was enacted into law following gubernatorial approval.
Although Senate Bill 1066 did not pass during this session, it marked progress in addressing credit card swipe fees by proposing that sales tax portions be excluded from transaction fees. NFIB’s advocacy ensured that this issue received public hearings for the first time in years, paving the way for potential future legislation.
