2024 End of Session Report
Dear Friends and Neighbors in District 08,
As we conclude another legislative session, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to represent our vibrant community in the Idaho Legislature. It’s been a session of significant challenges, but through hard work, determination, and a shared commitment to our conservative values, we have achieved remarkable successes that will benefit our district and the great state of Idaho for years to come.
Throughout this session, my focus has remained steadfast on supporting initiatives that bolster our educational system, ensure the well-being of our veterans, and provide essential funding for key state departments and programs. Each bill I’ve sponsored or co-sponsored has been driven by a commitment to enhance the lives of all Idahoans, and I’m proud to share some of our most notable accomplishments.
As your representative, I am inspired by the trust and responsibility you have placed in me. The accomplishments of this legislative session are not mine alone but belong to all of us in District 08.
Your support, insights, and engagement have been invaluable, and I am committed to continuing our work together to uphold our conservative values and make our district a place where everyone can thrive. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I look forward to building on our achievements and facing future challenges together with the same spirit of determination and community that defines us.
Warmest regards,
Representative Matthew Bundy
Idaho House of Representatives
District 08, Seat A
Leading with Civics: 2024 Capitol Tour!
Have you been to the Capitol lately? As the Legislators return to their districts, you can jump back into the State Capitol.
Join me on this virtual Capitol tour!
Legislative Accomplishments Reflecting on 2024
HB 428 has been a critical step toward maintaining a healthy business environment in Idaho. By adjusting the unemployment insurance tax rate multiplier, we’ve successfully prevented a significant tax increase for our employers, ensuring that our state remains a competitive and attractive place for business.
Education has been at the forefront of my efforts with HB 458 and HB 521 providing unprecedented support for our schools. From increasing funding to modernizing facilities, we are investing in the future of our children and ensuring that Idaho’s education system is second to none.
Recognizing the importance of supporting those who serve, HB 580 and HB 674 have been pivotal in providing military leave for public school employees and enhancing the budget for the Public Charter School Commission. These measures honor my commitment to education and the respect and gratitude for those who serve our country.
SB 1402 and related appropriations bills, including HB 679, HB 693, HB 700, and more, demonstrate my dedication to veterans’ services, career technical education, vocational rehabilitation, and other critical areas. These investments in our state’s infrastructure and services underscore my commitment to creating a better Idaho for our families and communities.
In addition to these efforts, I’ve also focused on recognizing the service and achievements of distinguished Idahoans, such as Lieutenant General Erik Peterson through SCR 117, and ensuring the efficient operation of our state through measures like SCR 129.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Brave Service Members and Department of Defense
I received an award from the U.S. Department of Defense this week. They recognized me for sponsoring legislation and supporting policies that benefit military members and their families in Idaho. It’s an incredible honor to be acknowledged for our efforts to support those who serve our country so selflessly. This award isn’t just for me; it’s a testament to the spirit of our community in Idaho and our collective commitment to standing by our military families.
2024 Idaho Legislative Ag All-Star
Thank you to the Food Producers of Idaho for naming me as an Idaho Legislative Ag All Star! Agriculture issues are crucial to our district, and I appreciate their support in our work.
HB 428 Helping Idaho Businesses
Sponsor
I am proud to have helped in the passing of House Bill 428, marking an important move to adjust Idaho’s unemployment insurance framework. With this legislation we have cut taxes for Idaho businesses by 20% which will save them $44 million this year and an estimated $117 million over five years.
This legislation adjusts the desired fund size multiplier from 1.3 to 1.2 to temper the increase in unemployment insurance tax rates for calendar year 2024 (Idaho Code 72-1350(3)). Without adjusting the multiplier, a large tax increase would normally occur after three years of frozen tax rates. Reducing the desired fund size multiplier lowers future rates.
House Bill 406 – Fentanyl Mandatory Minimums
HB 406 adds Fentanyl to the list of dangerous drugs that carry mandatory minimum sentences. It also defines the amounts of fentanyl that are required to meet the elements for the crime of trafficking.
This statute is not meant to capture the personal user. It is intended to make clear the punishment for those who choose to manufacture, deliver, or bring into the state amounts of fentanyl that meet the quantities listed in this bill. It also adds provisions for the crime of drug induced homicide and the corresponding punishment.
The existing appropriation from the General Fund for Court Operations, State Public Defender, and AttorneyGeneral is in place. This legislation causes no additional expenditure of funds at the state or local level of government nor does it cause an increase or decrease in revenue for state or local government therefore the legislation has no fiscal impact.
House Bill 580 – Military Leave for Public and Charter School Employees
Sponsor
House Bill 580 establishes provisions regarding military leave for public school district and charter school employees. The goal of this legislation is to provide a minimum of ten paid contract days for employees who are members of the United States Military reserves to train and/or serve our country. It will also clarify inconsistencies within existing policy dealing with military leave throughout the state.
HB 521- School Facility Funding & Tax Relief
Co-Sponsor
This legislation provides the largest state investment in school facilities through three main avenues. First, it dedicates $125 million in ongoing sales tax revenue to the new School Modernization Facilities Fund for bonding, while providing the legislature with expanded options to cover annual service on the bonds in the event of economic downturns.
Second, this legislation increases the funding to the School District Facility Fund in two ways. It increases the sales tax revenue directed to the fund from 2.25% to 3.25% which is projected to be $25 million in FY 2025, and redirects existing lottery dividends to the fund, which is projected to be approximately $50 million in FY2025. This fund will help school districts with paying down school bonds, levies, and plant facility levies, with any remaining funds being used at the district level for additional school facility projects.
Third, this legislation reduces income taxes from 5.8% to 5.695%, allowing Idahoans to have more money to better support local bonds and levies related to school facilities. Additional changes and technical edits are made to related Code provisions. Combined, this bill provides unprecedented state support for school facility improvements in every school district in the state while ensuring appropriate accountability.