(Bannock County Coroner’s Office Press Release, October 13, 2026)
The Bannock County Coroner’s Office, in cooperation with Idaho State Police, has confirmed the identity of the deceased following the single-vehicle fatality crash that occurred on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, on US30 near milepost 375 east of Lava Hot Springs.
Deceased: Eben Michael Shrum, 24, of Montpelier (m)
Next of kin has been notified.
The incident remains under investigation by Idaho State Police.
“Our office extends our deepest sympathies to Eben’s family, friends, and loved ones. We are keeping them in our thoughts during this difficult time,” said Coroner Torey Danner.
Editor’s Note: To read the original story, click here.
My Dad graduated from medical school in 1978. A down-home country boy who grew up roaming the hills around Cove, Oregon, Dad loved life and he loved to serve. For as long as I can remember, a framed copy of the Hippocratic Oath hung on his office wall. It was a solemn promise he never forgot.
After his passing, I stood in his home office and read the oath again, this time through the eyes of a legislator. Most people associate the oath and the white coat with “First, do no harm.” Far fewer realize the classical oath also contains a specific prohibition: the physician will not give a woman a remedy to cause an abortion.
For centuries, the healing profession understood what some in modern politics would rather forget: a pregnant woman’s doctor cares for two patients.
Proposition 1’s campaign leans heavily on doctors as messengers. Idahoans trust physicians, and they should. But a medical degree is not a law degree, and many doctors lending their names to Prop 1 are repeating what they’ve heard about Idaho’s Defense of Life Act, not what it actually says.
Doctors who have done their homework disagree. I recently sat beside three of them at an Idaho Falls forum: Dr. Kim Cox, a Pocatello obstetrician for 35 years; Dr. Matthew Stelzer, a Pocatello pediatrician with years of newborn intensive care experience; and Dr. Joshua Stringham, an Idaho Falls family physician who trains residents to deliver babies. Together they brought more than 70 years and thousands of deliveries into the room.
Their verdict: Idaho’s law is working.
Dr. Cox described a patient who developed life-threatening preeclampsia in three pregnancies, at 20, 24 and 28 weeks. Each time, he acted to protect her life, fully within Idaho law. Today she is home raising two healthy children.
Dr. Stringham put it simply: two patients, two heartbeats. When a mother’s life is in danger, the answer he teaches his residents is delivery, not death.
They are not alone. The oath’s wording has changed over time, but for many physicians, the commitment has not. The Idaho Committee for Hippocratic Medicine, which formally opposes Prop 1, speaks of medicine’s “noble heritage and solemn duty” to honor “the ancient Hippocratic tradition.” Their resolution echoes that oath, declaring: “the solemn duty of all healthcare professionals is to never intentionally harm or kill an innocent human being under their care.”
Nearly 80 Idaho physicians, Drs. Cox and Stelzer among them, have signed an open letter “to correct false claims about Idaho’s abortion laws.” Prop 1, they write, is “extreme, deceptive, and medically unsafe. It does not protect women; it endangers them.”
The facts back them up. No Idaho doctor has been prosecuted for providing life-saving care; no complaints have even been filed. Pregnancy-related deaths have dropped dramatically under the Defense of Life Act. And despite claims of an exodus, Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses data show active OB-GYN licenses climbing from about 280 in 2022 to roughly 340 by 2024, an increase of about 20 percent.
So what would Prop 1 change?
It would not change care for miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or early delivery in medical emergencies. That care is legal today.
It would redefine viability based on a baby’s need for “extraordinary medical measures,” a phrase it never defines. Dr. Stelzer notes that many babies born at 30 or 32 weeks need breathing support or IV nutrition, routine care that sends children home to full lives. Under Prop 1’s mandate to read the law in favor of abortion, that care could easily be deemed “extraordinary,” allowing the abortion of healthy babies well into the third trimester.
It would replace Idaho’s physician-only requirement with a vague “health care provider” standard, a change the physicians warn “would put women’s lives at serious risk.”
It would grant new “reproductive freedom rights” to “every person,” with no provision for parents. A minor girl could obtain an abortion without her parents ever knowing.
And it would legalize what Idaho law forbids today: no-questions-asked abortion on demand, including procedures intended to ensure that a baby does not survive.
That is the line my father committed never to cross, and the line these physicians still hold. There is no need to kill a baby who could be delivered and cared for.
Dad’s oath hung where he saw it every day. Idaho’s doctors still live by it. On November 3, Idaho voters can honor it too. Two patients. Two heartbeats. One promise worth keeping.
Vote no on Prop 1.
Julianne Young is a Bingham County Mom who loves faith, family, and freedom; a former state representative; founder of the nonprofit Idaho Family Strong; regional coordinator for Idaho Chooses Life; and 2nd Vice Chair of the Idaho State GOP.
(Attorney General’s Office Press Release, October 12, 2026)
BOISE, ID — Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced that Idahoans can now buy suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns without registration, lengthy waits, or federal taxes. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issued guidance on Friday indicating that it will stop enforcing those requirements nationwide, following the court victory Idaho won with 14 other states in Silencer Shop Foundation, et al. v. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives.
The National Firearms Act has required federal approval, registration, and a $200 tax for these firearms since 1934. Courts had upheld the registration rules as a method to collect that tax. However, when Congress eliminated the tax itself in the One Big Beautiful Bill. Idaho argued the registration requirements could not stand alone. On August 5th a federal court in Texas agreed.
That ruling initially protected only the parties who sued and their members and customers (Silencer Shop customers, Gun Owners of America members, Idaho’s state agencies like Idaho State Police, etc.), leaving other Idaho gun owners under the old rules. The U.S. Department of Justice declined to appeal, and Friday’s guidance extends the result to gun owners nationwide.
“I have defended the Second Amendment in the Idaho Legislature, in Congress, and as Attorney General,” said Attorney General Labrador.“For more than 90 years, the federal government made law-abiding citizens ask permission, pay a tax, and wait months to exercise their constitutional rights. Idaho sued, Idaho won, and the ATF’s guidance means that victory now belongs to every gun owner in our state.”
Buyers for firearms, suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns still must complete the ATF Form 4473 and a background check. Online orders must ship to a Federal Firearm License (FFL) dealer within the state of residence for the purchaser, and FFL dealers also may not sell or transfer any item in violation of state or local law. The Idaho Constitution forbids any firearm registration by state or local government.
The guidance is an enforcement policy that the ATF says could be reversed. Firearms left unregistered would not be automatically protected if that happens, and the ATF still accepts voluntary registrations. In September, Attorney General Labrador joined 20 other attorneys general in urging Congress to repeal these provisions permanently.
(Idaho Department of Education Press Release, October 12, 2026)
Boise–Families in Idaho can now apply to receive funding to cover both public and private educational expenses thanks to a new federal tax benefit that allows parents to donate money directly to an approved, non-profit Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).
Individuals can contribute up to $1,700 to an approved SGO, or $3,400 if filing jointly. The donors can then claim a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit on their 2027 taxes. SGOs will use the funds to provide scholarships for Idaho students for a wide range of qualified K-12 expenses, including academic tutoring; additional costs for special needs students; educational materials and equipment; internet access; computers and technology; and more. The credit is also available to private school students who wish to offset the cost of tuition or fees.
“We had the opportunity to participate in a program that would benefit any Idahoan with a child in a K-12 grade, whether they’re part of our public system or attending a private school, and we did not want to leave money on the table,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. “The scope of this opportunity made it an obvious choice for every student in Idaho, no matter where they are attending school.”
SGOs apply to and are approved by the Idaho Department of Education for participation in the program. All approved SGOs will be posted for public access via a list maintained by the Department here: https://www.sde.idaho.gov/education-freedom-tax-credit/. The list will be available and updated as SGO applications are approved. All SGOs are registered 501(c)(3) public charities whose primary purpose is awarding K-12 scholarships.
The Idaho Department of Education will issue additional guidance to families, including a list of approved SGOs, in the coming weeks. Organizations interested in becoming an approved SGO can learn more about eligibility requirements and access application materials here: https://form.jotform.com/262654946799177.
(City of Pocatello Press Release, October 12, 2026)
The Pocatello Animal Services is partnering with Phil Meador Subaru to host a Low-Cost Vaccine & Microchip Clinic Saturday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Phil Meador Subaru, 1437 Yellowstone Avenue.
The clinic is made possible through support from the ASPCA and is part of Subaru Loves Pets, a national initiative dedicated to improving the lives of pets.
All vaccines and microchips will be available for just $10 each, providing pet owners with an affordable opportunity to keep their animals healthy and protected. All dogs must be on a leash, and cats must be secured in a carrier. Pets must be at least 16 weeks old to receive vaccinations.
Available Services:
Rabies Vaccine (Dogs and Cats): Protects pets and people against the deadly rabies virus.
DAPPV Vaccine (Dogs): Protects against several serious canine diseases, including distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
FVRCP Vaccine (Cats): Protects against common feline diseases, including viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
Microchips (Dogs and Cats): Provides permanent identification to help reunite lost pets with their families.
Pocatello Animal Services encourages pet owners to take advantage of this low-cost opportunity to help protect their pets from preventable diseases and ensure they have a better chance of returning home if lost.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho. Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.
BANNOCK COUNTY, Idaho – Registered Bannock County voters can begin casting ballots for the upcoming election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.
Voters will decide races for congressional, state, county, and judicial offices, as well as local and statewide ballot initiatives. To preview your ballot before casting your vote, visit bannockcounty.gov/elections.
Early voting is available from Tuesday, Oct. 13 to Friday, Oct. 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Elections Office (141 N 6th Ave, Pocatello). Voters cannot cast ballots in the Elections Office on Election Day and must use their assigned polling place.
Polls will be open on Election Day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Residents can find their assigned polling locations at bannockcounty.gov/elections.
Absentee ballots must be requested online at voteidaho.gov before 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23. Completed ballots must be returned to the Bannock County Elections Office before 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Idaho residents who are not yet registered to vote can register to vote until Oct. 23, 2026, at voteidaho.gov. If you miss the pre-registration deadline, you can still register at the polls on Election Day with an Idaho photo ID and proof of residence.
(City of Pocatello Press Release, October 9, 2026)
The City of Pocatello has been awarded $4.84 million through the USDA Community Wildfire Defense Grant to reduce wildfire risk throughout the Portneuf Valley. As part of the project, the City and Southeast Idaho Council of Governments (SICOG) are hosting a free pop-up dump October 23, where homeowners can dispose of juniper limbs, sagebrush, and other natural, woody debris.
In partnership with High Country RC&D, Inc., SICOG, and other local agencies, the project will focus on reducing hazardous vegetation, improving wildfire preparedness, and protecting the community and public lands.
The pop-up dump will be held October 23, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sister City Park, located at Pocatello Creek Road and Satterfield Drive. Designated personnel will receive, chip, and dispose of material at no cost to residents. Limbs must be less than six feet long and less than seven inches in diameter. Only natural, woody debris will be accepted. Please do not bring trash, chemicals, rocks, lawn clippings, or other non-woody materials.
As wildfire seasons continue to grow longer and more severe, communities like Pocatello face increasing risks from dry vegetation, extreme weather, and development near wildland areas. This project helps reduce those risks through proactive vegetation management, homeowner education, and community partnerships.
If you are interested in fire mitigation and you live on the East Bench or West Bench of Pocatello, please feel free to contact us. If you wish to learn about how to protect your home from wildfires, how to identify wildfire risks, or community outreach options, you can learn more at cwdg-pocatello.hub.arcgis.com/.
For additional questions, please contact Grants Manager Christine Howe at 208-234-6184 or SICOG at 208-233-4535, or by email at landpartners@sicog.org.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho. Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.
(Governor’s Office Press Release, October 9, 2026)
Boise, Idaho — Governor Brad Little announced [last Friday] Idaho’s economy continues to show signs of strength as General Fund revenue exceeded the state’s forecast by $90.3 million, or 6.8%, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2027, according to the September revenue report released today.
“Idaho’s strong revenue growth is encouraging and reflects the strength of our economy, but we must remain disciplined and make spending decisions based on what we can responsibly sustain. The difficult decisions we made last year put us in a stronger fiscal position, and we need to continue prioritizing the investments that matter most to Idahoans while protecting our long-term financial stability,” Governor Brad Little said. “In addition, strong withholding growth shows us Idahoans are working, businesses are hiring, and our economy is strong. This is good news for Idahoans and our communities.”
September General Fund revenue came in $39 million above forecast, with individual income tax collections leading the way.
Individual income tax revenue is 18.3% above forecast year-to-date, driven in part by a sharp increase in income tax withholding.
Withholding collections grew 20% during the first quarter compared with the same period last year, accelerating from growth of 2.8% in FY2026 and 5.9% in FY2025. The increase points to continued strength in Idaho’s workforce and economy.
Sales tax collections continue to reflect economic activity across the state. September collections totaled $215.1 million, bringing year-to-date collections to $617.4 million.
Online marketplace sales were particularly strong, growing 23.4% during the first quarter compared with the same period last year.
Revenue performance remains uneven across tax categories. While individual income tax collections are significantly ahead of forecast, corporate income tax collections are $10.2 million, or 7.9%, below forecast, and sales tax collections are slightly below forecast year-to-date.
The results come as Idaho continues to manage its budget following difficult spending decisions made last fiscal year. The state’s approach has focused on aligning ongoing commitments with sustainable revenue expectations while preserving resources for core priorities, including public schools, transportation, infrastructure, public safety, and services that support Idaho families.
Although first-quarter collections are encouraging, state officials will continue monitoring revenue trends and economic conditions as the fiscal year progresses. Maintaining a disciplined approach to spending will help Idaho preserve its strong fiscal position and make responsible investments in the state’s future.
The September Revenue Report is the final monthly revenue report scheduled for release before the November 2 election.
Your address. It’s where friends come to visit, where you get your mail and packages, where you get to know your neighbors. It’s the place you call home.
But for victims of domestic violence, stalking or trafficking, an address can be a liability. In the wrong hands, it can bring danger right to their door.
My office is well known for elections and our business services. Fewer people know about another important service we provide: Idaho’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP).
The program helps vulnerable Idahoans keep their physical location out of public view while still being able to receive mail, register to vote and access essential government services.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and it’s an important opportunity to shine a light on this program.
Domestic violence is a tragic reality for too many Idahoans. Leaving an abusive situation can take tremendous courage, but leaving is often only the beginning. Rebuilding a life while maintaining your safety can be incredibly difficult.
Operated by our Executive & Legislative Affairs division, the ACP provides participants with a substitute address and mail-forwarding service. It’s a relatively simple service that can make a meaningful difference for someone working to build a safer life.
Our program is also just one part of a much larger network of state and local services available to Idahoans. Our office works closely with advocates, state and local agencies, and community partners who support people navigating some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. I’m grateful for the work they do every day.
This month, I hope you’ll help us spread the word. You may never need the Address Confidentiality Program yourself, but someone you know might.
Visit sos.idaho.gov/acp to learn more about the program and find links to additional state and local resources for Idahoans who are in, or have recently left, abusive relationships.
Phil McGrane
ABOUT SECRETARY PHIL McGRANE
Phil McGrane was elected Idaho’s twenty-eighth Secretary of State and took office on January 2, 2023. McGrane served as elected Clerk of Ada County from 2019-2022.McGrane holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, a juris doctorate, and a Master of Public Administration. As a fourth-generation Idahoan, Phil has dedicated his career to making elections in the state of Idaho accessible, secure and transparent.
(Bannock County Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover Photo Credit: Bannock County)
Bannock County Commissioners Meetings, October 12-16, 2026
Monday, October 12, 2026:
The Bannock County Courthouse will be closed in observance of Columbus Day.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026:
9:00 AM Business Meeting (action items)
Wednesday, October 14, 2026:
There are no meetings scheduled at this time.
Thursday, October 15, 2026:
9:00 AM Work Session and Claims Meeting (action items)
Friday, October 16, 2026:
There are no meetings scheduled at this time.
(The information packets for the business meeting and work session can be found at http://www.bannockcounty.gov. Scroll down and click on “Agendas and Minutes” then click on the information packet for the meeting that you are interested in.)
About BOCC Meetings
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is comprised of the three elected County Commissioners: Ernie Moser (District 1, Chair), Jeff Hough (District 2), and Ken Bullock (District 3).
The BOCC generally meets twice a week: regular business meetings are on Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. and work sessions are on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. Meetings are generally held in the Commissioner’s Chambers at 624 E Center, Room 212, Pocatello, Idaho, unless otherwise noted. Times subject to change within 15 minutes of stated time.
During these meetings, the BOCC may: approve contracts, expend funds, hear testimony, make decisions on land use cases and take care of other County matters, and are open to the public.
