WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 247

APPROPRIATIONS – LEGISLATIVE BRANCH – Relates to the maintenance appropriation to the Legislative Branch for fiscal year 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 247 allocates $13,016,400 for Idaho's Legislative Branch in FY 2026, ensuring funding for operations and personnel adjustments to enhance legislative efficiency.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 13, 2025 Session Law Chapter 57 Effective: 07/01/2025
#appropriations #funds #legislature #performanceevaluations
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 247

Summary of House Bill 247 (H 247)

Overview

House Bill 247 (H 247) pertains to the appropriations for the Legislative Branch of the State of Idaho for the fiscal year 2026. The bill specifically allocates funds to the Legislative Services Office and the Office of Performance Evaluations, ensuring the necessary resources for their operations.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of H 247 is to provide a maintenance appropriation that covers standard adjustments for personnel benefit costs, statewide cost allocations, and changes in employee compensation for the Legislative Branch. This funding is crucial for maintaining the functionality and performance of legislative services.

Key Provisions

  • Total Appropriation: The bill appropriates a total of $13,016,400 for the fiscal year 2026.
  • Breakdown of Funds:
    • Legislative Services Office:
    • General Fund: $9,965,300
    • Other funds (including Technology Infrastructure Stabilization Fund and Professional Services Fund): $1,921,500
    • Office of Performance Evaluations:
    • General Fund: $1,129,600
  • Exemptions: The Legislative Services Office and the Office of Performance Evaluations are exempt from expense class transfer limitations, allowing for more flexibility in fund management.
  • Reappropriation Authority: The bill allows for the reappropriation of any unexpended balances from the ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Fund for nonrecurring expenditures.
  • Emergency Clause: The bill declares an emergency, making it effective immediately on July 1, 2025.

Fiscal Impact

The fiscal note indicates a 4.1% increase in total appropriations compared to the original FY 2025 budget. This increase includes adjustments for personnel benefits and compensation changes, reflecting the ongoing need for adequate funding to support legislative functions.

Detailed Fiscal Breakdown

  • General Fund:
    • FY 2025 Original Appropriation: $9,955,300
    • FY 2026 Program Maintenance: $10,392,400 (an increase of $437,100)
  • Dedicated Funds:
    • FY 2025 Original Appropriation: $2,549,100
    • FY 2026 Program Maintenance: $2,624,000 (an increase of $74,900)

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects the Legislative Branch, including:
- Legislative Services Office: Responsible for providing support and services to the legislature.
- Office of Performance Evaluations: Tasked with evaluating the performance of state programs and agencies.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 14, 2025
  • Governor's Signature: March 13, 2025
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 247 is a critical piece of legislation that ensures the Legislative Branch of Idaho is adequately funded for the upcoming fiscal year. By providing necessary appropriations and allowing for flexibility in fund management, the bill aims to enhance the performance and efficiency of legislative operations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.