Government and Legal News
Attorney General’s Authority Expansion
A new bill in Idaho would allow the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute city elected officials for criminal activity. Introduced by Rep. Bruce Skaug and Rep. Chris Bruce, the bill expands the Attorney General’s authority, currently limited to county officials, to cover city officials. This legislation aims to address potential conflicts of interest with local prosecutors. Although the bill passed the House last year, it failed in a vote and will now have a full hearing.
Anti-SLAPP Bill Introduced
The Idaho Senate Judiciary Committee introduced an anti-SLAPP bill yesterday to protect free speech and curb frivolous lawsuits. The bill proposes to pause lawsuits with anti-SLAPP motions, award attorney fees to winners, and penalize those filing baseless cases. A similar bill failed to pass last year.
Controversy Over T-Mobile Tower in Kimberly
Kimberly residents are opposing the construction of a planned 250-foot T-Mobile tower near residential homes, citing violations of property rights. Although local zoning authorities denied the project, county commissioners approved it, stating that federal law takes precedence. Residents have filed a legal motion to reconsider the decision.
Marijuana Laws in Idaho
While 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana, Idaho continues to enforce some of the nation’s strictest marijuana laws. Possession of even small amounts can lead to jail time and significant fines. Cultivation remains a felony, and both medical and recreational marijuana use are prohibited, with severe restrictions on CBD products.
Twin Falls Clinic Demolition Proposal
Twin Falls City Administrator Travis Rothweiler has proposed demolishing the old Twin Falls clinic building at the owner’s expense, citing public health and safety concerns. This idea was presented during last night’s city council meeting.
Crime and Safety
Counterfeit Bills in Twin Falls
Counterfeit bills are circulating in the Twin Falls area. Police advise residents to inspect cash for security features like watermarks, security threads, and color-shifting ink. Residents are encouraged to feel the texture of bills and compare them with genuine currency to identify discrepancies. If you encounter counterfeit money, report it to local authorities immediately.
Construction Updates
Boise Hangar Collapse Update
Nearly two years after a deadly hangar collapse near Boise Airport, construction has resumed. On January 31, 2023, three workers were killed when a series of steel girders buckled during the construction of a new Jackson Jet Center hangar. The collapse, caused by unsafe construction methods, led to fines. The 39,000-square-foot hangar, part of Boise Airport’s expansion, is now scheduled for completion by 2027.
Sports
High School Basketball Highlights
- Wendell Trojans Girls’ Basketball: The Wendell Trojans narrowly defeated the Declo Hornets 41-39, sweeping their season series. With a 10-4 season record, Wendell started strong with a shot clock violation and a Brianna Egbert three-pointer. They face Gooding tomorrow, while Declo hosts West Side.
- Boys’ 2A Basketball: Valley crushed Sun Valley Community School 92-30, with Nathan and Devin Christensen scoring 17 each. Filer overcame Mountain Home 54-46 despite trailing at halftime and will host Buhl on January 23.
College Basketball
- CSI Basketball Rankings Drop: The NJCAA poll has dropped CSI basketball rankings, with the women falling to No. 13 and the men to No. 16. The CSI women, on a five-game win streak, will face Utah State Eastern and Snow College this week.
- Boise State vs. Wyoming: Boise State (12-5) will host Wyoming (9-7) tonight at 7 p.m. in the BroncoBold mental health awareness game. The Broncos, who beat Wyoming 67-58 earlier this season, have dominated the series, winning 17 of the last 19 matchups.
Tennis
- Idaho State Women’s Tennis: Idaho State’s women’s tennis team has been ranked sixth in the 2025 Big Sky Preseason Poll following their 2024 regular-season title. The Bengals start their season on January 24 in Boise against Boise State and Lewis-Clark State.
Weather
Forecast Overview
- Today: Sunny skies with a high near 34°F. Light winds becoming north-northeast at around 5 mph.
- Tonight: Mostly clear with a low of 21°F. Light east wind.
- Wednesday: Sunny with a high of 36°F. East-northeast wind at 3-7 mph.
- Wednesday Night: Mostly clear with a low of 24°F. East wind around 6 mph.
- Thursday: Sunny with a high near 40°F. East wind around 6 mph.
- Thursday Night: Mostly clear with a low of 22°F.
- Friday: Sunny with a high near 36°F. A slight chance of snow overnight.
Weekend Outlook
Expect cooler temperatures, with highs in the 20s and lows dropping to single digits by Sunday night. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!
