Representative Rich Jarvis

We have finished our work here in the Legislature. Everyone has been saying that this first regular session of Idaho's Sixtieth Legislature is probably one of the most difficult sessions in Idaho's history. This is the first time in Idaho's history that we have had two successive years of negative growth projected for General Fund revenues.

The Governor said it best in his letter. He gave the Legislature credit for crafting a budget that recognizes the proper role of government, while providing relief to the most needy of Idahoans. Despite the economic recession, the Legislature is living up to its constitutional requirement of a balanced budget.

A combined effort working with the State Superintendent Tom Luna, we made sweeping changes in education policy to make sure our children receive a quality education – even during an economic downturn.

This morning I met with the Governor to celebrate the signing of House Bill 251. This legislation changes the law regarding plan reviews for school buildings so that we are assured that all buildings are reviewed by qualified individuals and that we are not duplicating this requirement by having two plan reviews. In the past, many school districts have had to spend in excess of $100,000.00 for a duplicate plan review. Meridian School Board President, Mike Vuittonet, stated that Meridian School District alone would have saved over $750,000. This is a great example of how politics should work, getting all the stakeholders together and coming up with a mutually acceptable compromise.

Now, what about Transportation? Yes, this Legislature did something to provide for our roads. A record $1.1 billion through a variety of funding sources is available for our roads and bridges new construction and maintenance. We also took positive steps to promote the efficiency and accountability in the Idaho Transportation Department.

There were a host of other issues, such as the Swan Falls water rights agreement with Idaho Power Company and the funding of the Aquifer Management Plan process.

The positives often get lost in the political controversies, but the accomplishments of this first session of the 6oth Idaho Legislature are far-reaching. Every effort has been made to reduce the impact of government spending cutbacks on all Idahoans.

It has been my honor to serve District 21 as their Representative. I have appreciated the many constituents that have emailed me their views and concerns.

Thank you for your support!

Respectfully,

Rich Jarvis