Your Daily Briefing – 01/13/2025

News Update

Shots Fired in Burley

Early Thursday morning, shots were fired near Panda Express in Burley. Cassia County deputies stopped a suspect vehicle, detaining two women. One of the suspects broke a patrol car window and was subsequently arrested.

Attempted Burglary in Twin Falls

Two juveniles were arrested early yesterday after attempting to break into Poindexter’s Novelty Store in Twin Falls. Police spotted the teens behind the store and pursued them on foot before successfully taking them into custody.

TSA Reminder to Idaho Travelers

The TSA reminds Idaho travelers to leave restricted items, such as guns, knives, and sledgehammers, out of carry-on bags. In 2024, a record 64 firearms were discovered at Idaho airports, with fines reaching up to $14,950.

Proposed Tax Credit for Education in Idaho

Representative Clint Hostetler proposed a $250 million tax credit for private and home-school expenses, describing it as the “gold standard for school choice.” However, the bill will not advance this session, as lawmakers consider a $50 million plan focused on students with special needs.

Governor Brad Little’s Federal Spending Initiatives

Idaho Governor Brad Little joined other Republican governors in urging Congress to support President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency Initiative and a Balanced Budget Amendment. Governor Little emphasized the need to curb federal spending and align budgets with the financial practices of American families.

FY 2026 Revenue Projection and Tax Relief

The Economic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee narrowly recommended a $6.4 billion revenue projection for FY 2026. This decision sets the stage for potential tax relief, with Governor Little proposing $100 million in cuts, while House Speaker Mike Moyle advocates for three times that amount. The recommendation now heads to the budget committee for final approval.

Placerville Insurance Crisis

Residents in Placerville, Idaho, a wildfire-prone area, are being dropped by insurance companies without warning. Steve Koppes, a longtime resident, reported being dropped despite never filing a claim, with new policies carrying steep price increases. The Fire Chief noted ongoing efforts to lower the town’s wildfire risk rating.

Idaho’s Marijuana Laws

While 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana, Idaho remains one of the strictest states regarding marijuana laws. Possession of even small amounts can result in jail time and heavy fines. Cultivation is a felony, and both medical and recreational marijuana use are prohibited. CBD products face severe restrictions as well.


Sports

High School Boys’ Basketball

  • Preston extended their winning streak to six games with a 68-50 victory over Twin Falls. Preston’s record stands at 13-1, while Twin Falls fell to 3-7. Preston visits Century on Wednesday, and Twin Falls hosts Wood River.
  • Dietrich Blue Devils notched their 10th win by defeating Hansen 77-53.
  • Camas County Mushers beat Twin Falls Christian Academy 42-32.
  • Other scores:
    • Century 56, Jerome 48
    • Raft River 62, Shoshone 37
    • Oakley 51, Sun Valley Community School 27
    • Valley 80, Murtaugh 35

High School Girls’ Basketball

  • Mountain Home defeated Jerome 73-33.
  • Rockland won 42-18 against Richfield.
  • Twin Falls triumphed over Minico 53-27.
  • In close games:
    • Gooding edged American Falls 42-40.
    • Kimberly topped Snake River 60-44.

College Basketball Highlights

  • The 15th-ranked College of Southern Idaho Men’s Basketball Team hit 14 three-pointers in a 95-79 win. Jalen Lyn led with 19 points, while Amarco Doyle added 17. CSI improves to 15-3 overall and 3-0 in league play.
  • The 8th-ranked CSI Women’s Team rallied in the second half to defeat Colorado Northwestern 71-48. Kennedy Gillette scored 18 points, and Savannah Stoker secured a double-double. CSI is now 15-3 overall and 3-0 in conference play.
  • Boise State narrowly lost to Utah State 81-79 despite Tyson Degenhart’s 22 points. The Broncos host Wyoming tomorrow at 7 p.m.
  • Idaho Vandals rallied to beat Portland State 60-56, led by Olivia Nelson’s 17 second-half points.
  • Idaho State Bengals fell to Weber State 77-69 despite a strong second-half performance.

Weather Forecast

Today

Patchy fog before 11 a.m., then mostly cloudy with a high near 34°F. Winds from the west-northwest at 6–11 mph, gusting up to 23 mph.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with a low around 23°F. Winds becoming light and variable.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny with a high near 36°F. Winds shifting to the north at 6 mph in the afternoon.

Extended Forecast

  • Wednesday: Sunny, high near 37°F, low around 24°F.
  • Thursday: Sunny, high near 39°F, low around 21°F.
  • Friday: Sunny, high near 34°F, low around 18°F.
  • Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 29°F, low around 13°F.
  • Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 28°F.