GOP Launches State-Level DOGE Task Force
Republican leaders in Idaho’s Legislature announced the formation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Task Force on Thursday. The move follows the failure of House Bill 364 during the 2025 legislative session but signals a renewed push to streamline state government operations.
Modeled After Federal DOGE Initiative
The Idaho DOGE Task Force draws inspiration from both the federal government’s DOGE initiative under President Donald Trump and a previous proposal in House Bill 364. Although the bill didn’t reach the Senate floor before adjournment on April 4, lawmakers are proceeding with the task force outside of legislative session.
Focus Areas for Efficiency
According to a release from Rep. Jaron Crane (R-Nampa), House Majority Caucus Chair, the task force will concentrate on three core areas:
- Agency Consolidation: Reviewing and merging redundant state agencies to optimize operations.
- State-Funded Travel: Reducing unnecessary travel by state employees to lower taxpayer costs.
- Government Workforce Restructuring: Identifying and eliminating redundant state employee positions to improve efficiency.
Historical Context and Leadership Support
Crane noted this is the first significant government reorganization effort since 1974 under then-Gov. Cecil Andrus. He emphasized the need to eliminate redundancy and modernize Idaho’s administrative structure.
“Idaho’s Legislative DOGE Committee is a significant move towards streamlining government operations and enhancing State efficiency,” said House Speaker Mike Moyle (R-Star) in the announcement.
Next Steps for the Task Force
The DOGE Task Force will operate like a legislative interim committee with public meetings planned. Membership appointments are expected soon, although no date has been set for the first meeting.
The effort represents a unified stance among Republican leaders in both the House and Senate to advance government reform, even without formal legislative approval of the initial bill.
