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AG Labrador’s Lawsuit Against ATF Helps Slash Suppressor Red Tape

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Observer Staff
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(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 gun dealers and owners should read the ATF’s FAQs at: https://www.atf.gov/firearms/update-to-nfa-transfer-guidance before buying or transferring these firearms or seek a private attorney for more questions.

Support for Families of K-12 Students in Idaho Now Available through Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit

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Observer Staff
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(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.

Pocatello Animal Services To Partner with Phil Meador Subaru for Low-Cost Vaccine & Microchip Clinic, Saturday, October 17

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Observer Staff
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(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.

For more information, please contact the Pocatello Animal Services at 208-234-6156 or visit pocatello.gov/150/Animal-Services.

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.

Early Voting Begins in Bannock County for Nov. 3 Election

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Observer Staff
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(Bannock County Press Release, October 13, 2026)

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.

For more information about voting in Bannock County, visit bannockcounty.gov/elections.

Pocatello Awarded $4.84M for Wildfire Mitigation; Free Pop-Up Branch and Brush Dump Set for October 23

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Observer Staff
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(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.

Idaho General Fund Revenue Exceeds Forecast by $90M in First Quarter

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Observer Staff
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(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.

Idaho Secretary of State: When an Address Becomes a Liability

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Observer Staff
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(Idaho Secretary of State, October 9, 2026)

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.

That’s where the Address Confidentiality Program can help.

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 Commissioners Meetings, October 12-16, 2026

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Observer Staff
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(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.

Idaho’s Republican Congressional Delegation, Statewide Officials Oppose Proposition 1

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Observer Staff
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(Idaho Republican Party Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover image credit: IDGOP FB)

BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Republican Party announced [on Friday] that ten Republican officeholders representing Idaho in Congress and statewide elected positions have publicly declared their opposition to Proposition 1, the proposed initiative to legalize abortion in Idaho.

“If there is one issue that unites Republicans across the ideological spectrum, it is that of life,” said Chairwoman Dorothy Moon. “The Idaho GOP has always believed that the unborn are entitled to the same right to life as you and I, and I’m proud to stand beside our elected officials in urging Idahoans to vote no on Prop 1. It’s too extreme for Idaho.”

The following Republican elected officials have declared their opposition to Proposition 1:

  • Governor Brad Little
  • Senator Mike Crapo
  • Senator Jim Risch
  • Congressman Mike Simpson
  • Congressman Russ Fulcher
  • Lt. Governor Scott Bedke
  • Attorney General Raúl Labrador
  • State Controller Brandon Woolf
  • Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield
  • State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth

“I am voting no on Proposition 1,” Gov. Little said. “It would allow girls under 18 to receive abortion without parental consent, and it would make abortion far more accessible in Idaho. Proposition 1 simply goes too far.”

“It’s up to the voters whether or not Idaho adopts extreme California-style abortion laws, or remains a sanctuary for life,” Moon added. “Get out and vote—our future depends on it.”

About the Idaho Republican Party
The Idaho GOP is the state’s official Republican organization, working to elect Republicans and advance principles of faith, family, and freedom throughout Idaho.

Gov. Little Signs EO Suspending Dyed Diesel Inspections for 30 Days

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Observer Staff
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(Photo Credit: Karyn Simmons)

(Governor’s Office Press Release, October 9, 2026)

Boise, Idaho — Governor Brad Little [on Friday] signed an executive order temporarily suspending state inspections related to dyed diesel fuel, cutting red tape for Idaho farmers and ranchers during harvest season.

The order directs the Idaho State Police and Idaho Transportation Department to suspend inspection efforts conducted under Idaho Code section 49-676 for 30 days while the agencies review Idaho’s existing inspection policies and procedures.

The review will consider how other states approach dyed diesel enforcement and will result in recommendations to the Governor for efficient, effective, and practical inspection practices.

The executive order follows a directive from President Donald Trump to cut red tape and reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens on American farmers, ranchers, and businesses. Governor Little is building on that effort in Idaho by taking immediate action to give producers relief during harvest and reviewing state policies to identify opportunities for further common-sense reforms.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers work hard to feed our families, our country, and the world. President Trump has made cutting red tape a priority, and Idaho is doing the same. We will continue looking for ways to give our farmers, ranchers, and working men and women on the road more freedom to do what they do best,” Governor Little said.

Dyed diesel is commonly used for agricultural purposes and is subject to different state and federal requirements than fuel used for on-road purposes. The Governor’s executive order provides temporary relief from Idaho’s inspection requirements while the state evaluates how its policies compare with those of other states.

The order does not exempt individuals or businesses from other applicable federal laws, the laws of other states, or warranty requirements for their vehicles.

The executive order will remain in effect for 30 calendar days unless rescinded or extended by a subsequent order of the Governor.

LEGISLATOR SUPPORT FOR EXECUTIVE ORDER

Legislative leaders expressed support for providing men and women on the road relief during a period of high diesel prices.

“Our farmers and ranchers work long hours to put food on our tables and strengthen Idaho’s economy. They deserve a government that supports them. Suspending these inspections while the state reviews its policies is a practical approach that puts common sense first and gives Idaho producers one less thing to worry about during harvest,” House Speaker Mike Moyle said.

“Idaho has always been a state where we value hard work, personal responsibility, and limited government. This executive order reflects those values by taking a closer look at regulations that can create unnecessary burdens for our farmers and ranchers. I’m glad to see Idaho continuing to cut red tape and stand up for the people who feed our families and drive our rural communities,” House Transportation Committee Chairman Joe Palmer said.

“This order is a common-sense step that gives our producers some breathing room during the busiest time of year. Idaho is proud to take action and make sure Idaho’s regulations work for the people who keep our agricultural economy moving,” Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Doug Okuniewicz said.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers are facing high costs across the board, and expensive diesel is adding to the pressure during harvest. This order provides some immediate relief while giving the state time to review these requirements and find a practical approach that supports our producers without adding unnecessary costs or red tape,” Senate President Pro Tem Kelly Anthon said.

“Our farmers and ranchers are already dealing with high operating costs, and rising diesel prices make harvest season even more challenging. We need to give Idaho producers some breathing room while they get their crops out of the field. This order provides immediate relief and gives us time to find common-sense solutions that cut unnecessary red tape and help keep costs down for the people who feed our families,” Senate Majority Leader Lori Den Hartog said.

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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.
Contact us: jcrowder@pocatellochubbuckobserver

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