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Guest Columnist Senator Tammy Nichols – Fighting for Idaho: My 2026 End of Session Report

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Observer Staff
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April 11, 2026

Fighting for Idaho: My 2026 End of Session Report

By: ID Senator Tammy Nichols

ID Senator Tammy Nichols (Photo Credit: Tammy Nichols)

The 2026 legislative session has officially come to a close, and I want to sincerely thank you for the trust you place in me to represent District 10 in the Idaho Legislature.

This session was one of the most difficult and important in recent memory. Idaho faced tighter revenues, hard budget choices, growing pressure from outside interests, and major debates about the future direction of our state. Through it all, I stayed focused on what matters most: protecting taxpayers, defending families, supporting agriculture, preserving freedom, and keeping government accountable.

Delivering Results for District 10

This year, I ran nearly 40 bills and legislative measures, and I am proud to report that 29 of those passed all the way into law.

That is a strong record of conservative leadership and real results for District 10 and the people of Idaho.

Most of the bills I run and support do not start in a back room or come from lobbyists, they come from YOU. Many begin when constituents bring me an idea, raise a concern, share a personal experience, or point out a problem in current law. I believe one of the most important parts of this job is listening to the people I represent and turning those concerns into real solutions.

Not every bill crosses the finish line, but leadership means showing up, doing the work, asking hard questions, and advancing serious solutions.

Responsible Budgeting in a Tough Year

This year’s budget required discipline.

After years of rapid spending growth, lawmakers were faced with a tighter revenue picture and difficult choices. I supported efforts to rein in government growth, prioritize core services, and protect Idaho taxpayers from reckless overspending.

Idaho families must live within their means, and government should too.

That principle guided many of the toughest votes this session.

Key Bills I Championed This Year

I was proud to carry and support legislation that addressed real issues facing Idahoans. Some highlights are:

Protecting Consumers & Public Safety

  • S1282 – Kratom Consumer Protection Act
    Created safeguards against dangerous adulterated and synthetic products while preserving access to pure leaf kratom.
  • S1232 – Son of Sam Bill
    Ensures violent criminals cannot profit from notoriety while victims are not forgotten.
  • HB558 – Foster Youth Survivor Benefits Protection
    Protects federal survivor benefits intended for foster children.
  • HB528 – Directed Blood Donation Rights
    Expanded patient rights involving blood donation options.

Defending Freedom & Privacy

  • H750a – Digital ID Protection Act
    Worked to ensure Idahoans are not forced into digital identification systems.
  • S1269 – Cloud Seeding Transparency Act
    Increased transparency and accountability surrounding cloud seeding and weather modification activity in Idaho.

Agriculture & Idaho Values

As Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I was proud to help lead major work supporting Idaho’s number one industry.

  • SJM110 – Sugar Beet Memorial
    Supported Idaho producers and agriculture priorities.
  • S1445 – Rat Control Local Authority Bill
    Addressed the growing Treasure Valley rat issue through practical local solutions.
  • S1335 – Veterinary Service Commitment Bill
    Strengthened veterinary workforce commitments tied to state-supported education.
  • HB563 – CPA Workforce Reform
    Modernized licensing pathways to address workforce shortages.

Housing & Affordability

  • S1352 – Starter Home Subdivision Act
  • S1353 – Housing Development Reform
  • S1354 – Housing Affordability Expansion Act

These bills sought to increase housing supply and affordability for Idaho families.

Areas Where More Work Is Needed

While I am proud of many accomplishments this session, there were two areas where I was not satisfied with the progress made:

Immigration Reform

Idaho needs stronger state-level policies that protect taxpayers, uphold the rule of law, and ensure our communities are not burdened by failures of the federal government. We made progress in the conversation, but not enough. I intend to continue working on meaningful immigration reform legislation next session.

Family Court Reform

I also remain deeply concerned about Idaho’s family court system. Too many families feel unheard, face inconsistent rulings, high costs, and long delays. Parents and children deserve a system focused on fairness, due process, accountability, and the best interests of children. I will continue bringing forward reforms in this area next year.

Additional Legislation I Worked On

Other bills I carried or Sponsored included:

  • H846 – Public Safety / Criminal Justice Reform
  • S1270 – Family Protection Legislation
  • S1239 – Daycare Zoning Clarification
  • HB824 – Government Accountability Measure
  • S1286 – Consumer Protection Update
  • S1271 – Rat Invasive Species Act
  • HB514 – Veterans Protection Bill
  • SB1299 – Child Protection Reform
  • S1412 – Education Accountability Bill
  • S1342 – Public Records / Transparency Measure
  • HB663 – Workforce Development Reform
  • HB541 – Military Leave Update
  • HB544 – Military Leave Expansion
  • HB507 – Public Safety Enhancement
  • HB581 – Government Operations Reform
  • HB623 – Taxpayer Protection Measure
  • HB731 – Family Rights Bill
  • HB575 – Licensing Reform
  • HB772 – Industrial Hemp Producer Reform
  • H879 – Hemp Product Regulation Update
  • H776 – Agricultural Policy Reform
  • S1418 – Family Court Improvement Bill
  • H856 – Human Remains Protection Act
  • SJM112 – Balanced Budget Memorial to Congress

Each one represented another effort to improve Idaho, solve problems, and protect our future. All bills for this session can be found here.

Governor Vetoes After Adjournment

After the Legislature adjourned, Governor Brad Little issued multiple vetoes on bills passed by the Legislature. Idaho governors have constitutional veto authority, but these actions sparked significant discussion because they came after lawmakers had adjourned and could no longer immediately respond.

The vetoed bills included:

  • HB758a – Daycare Reform Bill
    Related to childcare regulations and provider requirements.
  • HB975 – Rainy Day Fund Transfer Bill
    Would have increased deposits into Idaho’s Budget Stabilization Fund.
  • HB968 – Cash Transfer / Budget Reallocation Bill
    Moved funds from canceled projects into other priorities.
  • SB1359a – Virtual Currency Kiosk Fraud Bill
    Would have created protections tied to cryptocurrency ATM fraud.
  • HB674 – Telecommunications Service Bill
    Addressed service discontinuation and regulatory authority.
  • HB978 – Graduate Medical Education Funding Bill (line-item veto)
    Would have reduced funding connected to graduate medical education programs.

These vetoes will likely remain part of the broader discussion heading into next session.

Serving Beyond the Capitol

This year I also continued meeting directly with constituents, speaking throughout District 10 and around Idaho, and staying connected with the people I serve. Good government starts with listening. I will continue to do this outside of session, as well as travel to other states to talk with others about ideas and issues.

My Commitment to You

I did not go to Boise to become part of the political class.

I went there to fight for you.

That means standing firm when it matters. Asking hard questions. Protecting families. Defending liberty. Supporting agriculture. Controlling spending. And making sure Idaho remains Idaho.

Thank you again for the honor of serving as your Senator.

I look forward to continuing the fight.

In Liberty,

Senator Tammy Nichols
District 10

The Simpson Standard: Congratulations to Art Contest Winner Mayleigh Carter, INL

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Observer Staff
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(U.S. Representative Mike Simpson, April 12, 2026)

It’s that time of year! The Congressional Art Competition is one of my favorite competitions for Idaho’s student artists to showcase their talents and be recognized alongside hundreds of other students and members of Congress from across the country. Many thanks to all the students, parents, and teachers who attended the 2026 Congressional Art Competition reception earlier this week.

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO INL! DOME, located at the Idaho National Laboratory, is a first-of-its-kind microreactor test bed that will enable rapid development, testing and demonstration of privately developed advanced nuclear reactors. This week marked the grand opening of this test bed!

In case you missed it: I recently joined KTVB’s Justin Corr on Viewpoint to discuss some of the top issues here in DC. You can watch clips of our interview or the full interview below.

Congressional Art Competition

I was pleased to host a reception this week to congratulate the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition and recognize some of the other talented participants.

Mayleigh Carter, a junior at Snake River High School, won this year’s competition. Her piece, Tied Down at the War Bonnet Round Up, will be showcased in the Capitol for millions of Americans to see!

Congratulations, INL!

It was a great week for INL! DOME gives American developers the ability to take new reactor concepts from design to demonstration at the pace the new nuclear era demands.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, I was proud to secure funding to support this test bed. You can read more about DOME here.

Discussing What’s Happening in Washington

While in the district, I sat down with KTVB’s Justin Corr to discuss some critical issues happening in DC:

Thanks again to KTVB for having me! You can watch the clips above or the full interview here.

 

Patriots for Liberty and Constitution to Discuss “The American Covenant” TODAY, April 13

By
Karyn Simmons
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Patriots for Liberty and Constitution

April 13, 2026

Pocatello–Tonight at their weekly meeting, the group “Patriots for Liberty & Constitution” discuss Marshall Foster’s book, The American Covenant.  This week’s discussion will focus on the introduction and first chapter of the book, as well as current events.

A PDF of the book is available for download here.

Patriots for Liberty & Constitution meets at Mountain Valley Baptist Church, 202 S. 7th Avenue in Pocatello, every Monday evening at 6:30.

Pocatello: Road Closure and Traffic Report for Week of April 13, 2026

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Observer Staff
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(Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

April 13, 2026 (Cover Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

The City of Pocatello’s Road Construction & Traffic Report for the week of April 13, 2026, has been published and may be read here.

Highlights include:

  • Street sweepers are currently performing their regular sweeping schedule.
  • The Street Services crew will be patching potholes and curb lines throughout the City.
  • Crews will be jetting and cleaning sewer mainlines throughout the City.
  • The Water Department is replacing the water mainline on Westello Blvd. Crews will work from 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Thursday.  This phase of the job is expected to last 2-3 weeks.
  • The City of Pocatello will begin construction on the Benton Street Bridge over the Portneuf River April 15, 2026. West Benton Street will be closed between South Hayes Avenue and South Grant Avenue. This project includes removing the existing bridge and constructing a new structure designed to improve safety and increase load capacity. In addition to bridge replacement, the project will include reconstruction of roadway approaches, coordination and relocation of select utilities, and other related improvements. Construction is anticipated to be finished by the end of September, weather and other unforeseen conditions permitting.
  • West Whitman Street, between North Arthur Avenue and the alley toward South Garfield Avenue (directly in front of Family Services Alliance) will be closed Tuesday, April 14, for the “Living the Cause” event.
  • The ISU Bengal Triathlon will be held April 17-18.  Course maps can be located here. Motorists are advised to use caution and expect delays in the area.
  • South Garfield Avenue between Center Street and West Lewis Street will be closed from 6 AM to 5 PM. on Saturday, April 18th, for the Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair.

 

City of Pocatello Calendar for April 13-17, 2026

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Observer Staff
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(City of Pocatello Press Release, April 10, 2026; Cover Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

City of Pocatello Calendar of Meetings ~ April 13-17, 2026

MONDAY, APRIL 13

  • Pocatello Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council Meeting 3:15 p.m., Council Chambers
  • Human Relations Advisory Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m., Council Chambers

TUESDAY, APRIL 14

  • Site Plan Review 1:30 p.m., Iwamizawa Conference Room
  • Pocatello Iwamizawa Sister Cities Foundation Meeting 5:15 p.m., Council Chambers
  • Pocatello America250 Ad Hoc Committee Meeting 6:30 p.m., Council Chambers

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15

  • Pocatello Development Authority Meeting 11:00 a.m., Council Chambers
  • Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair Committee Meeting 12:00 p.m., Iwamizawa Conference Room
  • Airport Bid Opening 2:00 p.m., Council Chambers

THURSDAY, APRIL 16

  • City Council Clarification Meeting 5:30 p.m., Council Chambers
  • City Council Meeting 6:00 p.m., Council Chambers

FRIDAY, APRIL 17

  • No Meetings Scheduled

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

  • Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair Committee Special Meeting 7:30 a.m., 426 W. Lewis Street Lookout Point

 

Jobs Available with Bannock County

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Observer Staff
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April 13, 2026

Law Clerk/ Judicial Staff Attorney
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Code Enforcement Officer
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Emergency Management Director
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney level 1
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Deputy Prosecutor III
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Part-time Administrative Assistant- Adult Probation and Pre-Trial
Bannock County – Pocatello
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

For a complete list of available jobs… please visit our career site at: https://bannockcounty.applicantpro.com

President Trump Announces Hormuz Strait Blockade Due to Collapse in Iran Negotiations

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

April 12, 2026

Washington, D.C.–In a pair of posts on Truth Social this morning, President Trump announce that the U.S. will impose an immediate blockade on the Strait of Hormuz due to Iran’s refusal to “give up its nuclear ambitions.”  In addition, any ship of any nation that has paid a toll to Iran will be subject to interdiction by the U.S. Navy.

One post reads:

“Iran promised to open the Strait of Hormuz, and they knowingly failed to do so. This caused anxiety, dislocation, and pain to many people and Countries throughout the World. They say they put mines in the water, even though all of their Navy, and most of their “mine droppers,” have been completely blown up. They may have done so, but what ship owner would want to take the chance? There is great dishonor and permanent harm to the reputation of Iran, and what’s left of their “Leaders,” but we are beyond all of that. As they promised, they better begin the process of getting this INTERNATIONAL WATERWAY OPEN AND FAST! Every Law in the book is being violated by them. I have been fully debriefed by Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, on the meeting that took place in Islamabad through the kind and very competent leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan. They are very extraordinary men, and continuously thank me for saving 30 to 50 million lives in what would have been a horrendous War with India. I always appreciate hearing that — The amount of Humanity spoken of is incomprehensible.
 
“The meeting with Iran began early in the morning, and lasted throughout the night — Close to 20 hours. I could go into great detail, and talk about much that has been gotten but, there is only one thing that matters — IRAN IS UNWILLING TO GIVE UP ITS NUCLEAR AMBITIONS! In many ways, the points that were agreed to are better than us continuing our Military Operations to conclusion, but all of those points don’t matter compared to allowing Nuclear Power to be in the hands of such volatile, difficult, unpredictable people. My three Representatives, as all of this time went by, became, not surprisingly, very friendly and respectful of Iran’s Representatives, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, Abbas Araghchi, and Ali Bagheri, but that doesn’t matter because they were very unyielding as to the single most important issue and, as I have always said, right from the beginning, and many years ago, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!”

An additional post continues:

“So, there you have it, the meeting went well, most points were agreed to, but the only point that really mattered, NUCLEAR, was not. Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz. At some point, we will reach an “ALL BEING ALLOWED TO GO IN, ALL BEING ALLOWED TO GO OUT” basis, but Iran has not allowed that to happen by merely saying, “There may be a mine out there somewhere,” that nobody knows about but them. THIS IS WORLD EXTORTION, and Leaders of Countries, especially the United States of America, will never be extorted. I have also instructed our Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran. No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas. We will also begin destroying the mines the Iranians laid in the Straits. Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL! Iran knows, better than anyone, how to END this situation which has already devastated their Country. Their Navy is gone, their Air Force is gone, their Anti Aircraft and Radar are useless, Khomeini, and most of their “Leaders,” are dead, all because of their Nuclear ambition. The Blockade will begin shortly. Other Countries will be involved with this Blockade. Iran will not be allowed to profit off this Illegal Act of EXTORTION. They want money and, more importantly, they want Nuclear. Additionally and, at an appropriate moment, we are fully “LOCKED AND LOADED,” and our Military will finish up the little that is left of Iran! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

Ski Ingram’s “A Veteran’s Thoughts:” I Love America, Do You?

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Observer Staff
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April 12, 2026

I Love America, Do You?

By: Ski Ingram

Ski Ingram

If you read my newsletter, you understand that I love America and our Constitution. I know that most of you also love America. I also know that some in this country do not love America, which I find very upsetting.

In October 2020 I published an article entitled “American Exceptionalism.” (www.skiingram.com/2020/10). I wrote about the framers of our Constitution being inspired by God when America was conceived. I wrote about America being built on the lofty principle that all men are created equal and they have certain rights given to them by God. Because these rights are God-given, they cannot be taken away by man or our government.

Today I worry that too few people understand this principle or do not believe it in today’s liberal environment and 24-hour news cycle. There are thousands of people who do not like this country and wish to destroy it. Through social media, the liberal news, “woke” Universities and left leaning politicians, our rights are being eroded every day. We have reached a point where people do not trust the government, our leaders, our universities, and each other. It’s possible that this is what the Left wants, to destroy America so that they can “fundamentally” change it in any way they choose.

The Left will misrepresent what is going on in the country especially if they are condemning President Trump. TDS is real and cannot be denied. Those on the Left are quick to point out America’s faults while at the same time ignoring this country’s successes. I’ve said it many times: America is a work in progress. We have not been perfect, but many of our problems have been corrected over the past 250 years. I agree with President Donald Trump and his America First agenda. Let other nations be first in their own countries.

Patrick Henry stated many years ago, “The liberties of a people never were, nor never will be, secure, when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them.” Thomas Sowell has said, “What is scary about our time is how easy it is to get Americans to give up our most precious rights if you just use some pretty words. You can violate the equal protection of our laws provided by the 14th Amendment if you use the word ‘diversity’ and you can violate the free speech protections of the First Amendment if you can call it ‘campaign finance reform.”

Benjamin Franklin famously stated in 1755: “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety”. With so much misinformation in the news, late-night talk shows, and the things being taught in our liberal universities, it’s no wonder that people do not understand the greatness of America. They certainly don’t understand the freedoms we enjoy.

The Declaration of Independence tells us where our rights come from. At the beginning of the second paragraph it states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” It does not guarantee any certain outcome, especially to someone who is unwilling to work for what they want. However, for those who are willing to work, struggle and risk failure, they are empowered to succeed in anything they wish.

“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed it ourselves.” Abraham Lincoln.

President Trump told us what needs to be done in Butler, Pennsylvania after surviving an assassin’s bullet, “FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT.” I am a 76-year-old combat veteran, and I am prepared and ready to fight for our freedoms no matter how hard or long it takes. Will you?

Ski Ingram is a combat veteran and a patriot who can be reached at: Ski@Skiingram.com Or www.Skiingram.com.

 

Idaho Department of Lands Seeks Applicants to Serve on Forest Practices Advisory Committee

By
Observer Staff
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0

(Idaho Department of Lands Press Release, April 10, 2026)

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) is seeking qualified applicants for the “At-large” position on the Idaho Forest Practices Advisory Committee (FPAC).

The position represents the interests of Idaho’s citizens. The selected applicant will serve a three-year term ending Dec. 31, 2028. Applicants must be residents of Idaho.

FPAC operates under the Idaho Forest Practices Act and is authorized in Section 38-1305, Idaho Code. It provides technical assistance and recommendations to IDL and the Idaho State Board of Land Commissioners on matters related to forest practices in the state.

The Forest Practices Advisory Committee plays an important role in supporting responsible forest management in Idaho. The committee reviews forestry practices and helps ensure regulations remain effective, practical and responsive to emerging issues.

FPAC responsibilities include:

  • Reviewing and evaluating existing forest practice rules to ensure they remain scientifically sound, practical and protective of Idaho’s forest resources.
  • Examining emerging forestry issues such as advances in logging technology, wildfire resilience, water quality protection and forest health concerns.
  • Providing guidance to help balance sustainable forest management with protection of natural resources including soil, water and wildlife habitat.
  • Facilitating discussion among landowners, logging operators, state agencies and other stakeholders.

The nine-member committee includes:

  • A fisheries biologist
  • A nonindustrial private forest landowner
  • Two forest landowners, one from northern Idaho and one from southern Idaho
  • Two forest operators, one from northern Idaho and one from southern Idaho
  • Two informed citizens, one from northern Idaho and one from southern Idaho
  • One at-large member

FPAC typically meets two to three times each year, with virtual attendance available. Members are expected to review technical materials and participate in discussions that help inform forestry policy and rulemaking.

Nominations and applications should include a biography or résumé and can be submitted by email to jbradley@idl.idaho.gov or mail to:

Jeanne Bradley
Program Manager – Regulatory (Forest Practices Act) and Stewardship
Idaho Department of Lands
3284 W. Industrial Loop Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
Phone: (208) 666-8636

More information about FPAC can be found at https://www.idl.idaho.gov/about-forestry/forest-practices-act/forest-practices-advisory-committee/

Spring Chinook Fishing Set to Open April 25

By
Observer Staff
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0

(Idaho Fish and Game Press Release, March 26, 2026)

Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved spring Chinook seasons to open on April 25 in the Snake River, Lower Salmon River, Little Salmon River, Mainstem Clearwater River, Middle Fork Clearwater River, North Fork Clearwater River, South Fork Clearwater River, and Lochsa River.

Bag limits and days per week open to fishing are variable by river section. See the full Spring Chinook Season and Rules information on the Chinook Fishing rules webpage. 

Preseason run forecasts project enough hatchery salmon to provide sport fisheries in those rivers. The Chinook run is just starting, and as of March 24, less than 100 fish have crossed Bonneville Dam, which is the first of eight Columbia/Snake River dams the fish cross before reaching Idaho.

At its March meeting in Boise, the Commission also authorized the Fish and Game Director to make in-season adjustments to seasons – if needed – based on the actual number of Chinook that return.

The intent is to provide a quicker response if changes to the Chinook season are warranted based on the run size. The director previously had the authority to restrict fisheries or close fishing when harvest limits had been reached, but the Commission expanded his authority to adjust seasons by increasing fishing days of the week and bag limits, when appropriate.

Chinook anglers are reminded that electronic salmon and steelhead permits are available at all vendors, or through the Go Outdoors Idaho mobile app. E-tagging allows anglers to buy an electronic salmon or steelhead permit from anywhere they have internet or cell phone service and start fishing immediately.

E-tagging also allows salmon or steelhead anglers to validate their electronic permit via their smart phone. Anglers can use the app while out of cell service, in low service areas, and while the device is on airplane mode.

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The Pocatello Chubbuck Observer seeks to be a fair and objective portal, where readers can find the local, regional and national news, recent facts and entertainment.
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