Latest News from Gem State Wire

ITD introduces AI chatbot for Construction & Materials division

By Gem State Wire | Jan 31, 2025

In an effort to enhance efficiency and streamline processes, Mike Copeland from ITD's Construction & Materials division has introduced a new AI chatbot.

Idaho Transportation Department announces open house for US-30 Business Loop improvements

By Gem State Wire | Jan 31, 2025

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has announced an open house event for public engagement regarding the preliminary design features aimed at improving traffic flow on the U.S. Highway 30 Business Loop in Burley.

Public Issue Tracker transforms service delivery at Idaho Transportation Department

By Gem State Wire | Jan 31, 2025

When Jeremy K. Wickard joined the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) in July 2019, he brought extensive experience, including his time as an IT technician at state prisons.

NFIB Idaho opposes legislation facilitating lawsuits against small businesses

By Gem State Wire | Jan 30, 2025

The Idaho State Legislature's 2025 session is underway, and the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is closely monitoring proposals that could increase business costs or facilitate lawsuits against small business owners.

Idaho opens applications for $2M specialty crop block grants

By Gem State Wire | Jan 15, 2025

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has opened the application process for the 2025 Specialty Crop Block Grant.

Small business optimism rises as expectations improve post-election

By Gem State Wire | Jan 14, 2025

The latest release of the Small Business Optimism Index from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) indicates a significant rise in small business optimism.

2023: Idaho ranks 45th nationwide for total received in EDA grants, at $975,000

By Gem State Wire | Jan 9, 2025

In 2023, Idaho received $975,000 in EDA grants for economic development projects, ranking 45th nationwide, according to the US Economic Development Administration (EDA).

Idaho director comments on NFIB jobs report amid hiring challenges

By Gem State Wire | Jan 9, 2025

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its latest monthly Jobs Report, highlighting ongoing challenges for small business owners in finding employees.

Idaho sees less individual income tax revenue in Q3 2024

By Gem State Wire | Jan 6, 2025

The third quarter of 2024 brought in $612 million in individual income tax revenue for Idaho, a 44.5% decrease from the second quarter of 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's Quarterly Summary of State and Local Taxes.

Analysis: Idaho one of 25 states banning boys from playing girls’ high school sports

By Gem State Wire | Jan 6, 2025

An analysis by Gem State Wire shows that, following President Biden's new Title IX protections in April 2024, which redefined “sex” to include “gender-identity,” Idaho is one of 25 states that ban boys from playing in girls' high school sports.