Budget Committee Defers Revenue Vote Without Explanation
Idaho’s Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee did not act Friday on adopting a revenue forecast for the upcoming state budget, postponing a decision that plays a central role in fiscal planning.
The committee had been scheduled to consider a recommendation from the Legislature’s Economic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee. Instead, the agenda item was removed shortly before the meeting began, and no public explanation was provided.
Revenue Forecast Exceeds Governor’s Estimate
The Economic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee voted Thursday to recommend a revenue projection of approximately $5.8 billion for the next fiscal year.
That estimate is about $137 million higher than the revenue projection released earlier this week by Governor Brad Little alongside his State of the State address.
Why Revenue Projections Matter
Idaho’s Constitution requires the state to pass a balanced budget, meaning spending cannot exceed anticipated revenue. As a result, the revenue projection effectively sets the upper boundary for state spending.
This year, the projection carries heightened importance due to recent revenue shortfalls. Both the fiscal year 2026 and fiscal year 2027 budgets are currently projected to face deficits.
State leaders have publicly committed to avoiding a budget shortfall by reducing spending during the 2026 legislative session.
Leaders Cite Need for Additional Review
After the meeting adjourned, committee co-chairs said they wanted members to have additional time to review the revenue recommendation. They indicated the committee now plans to take up the issue when it reconvenes on Monday.
The committee is scheduled to meet again at 8 a.m. at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.
Delays Drew Criticism in Prior Session
The postponement follows criticism from lawmakers in previous years. During the last legislative session, the revenue projection was not adopted until early March, well after major budget bills and tax reductions had already been approved.
Some legislators argued at the time that delaying the forecast undermined disciplined budgeting and reduced transparency in the appropriations process.
Republican Leadership Aimed for Earlier Action
Ahead of the 2026 session, Republican legislative leaders said they intended to establish the revenue baseline earlier than in prior years.
They stated that setting the projection sooner would allow lawmakers to better align spending decisions with available resources and coordinate more closely with the governor’s office.
Whether that goal will be met remains unclear as the session progresses.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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