The session convened with newly appointed Governor Brad Little, Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin and State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth, in addition to 28 new legislators and some first-time committee chairmen. The significant changes in leadership likely caused the session’s lengthy duration.

Key themes centered on the 2019 Idaho budget and economy, Medicaid expansion implementation, continued educational investments, reduction of regulations to support business and economic opportunities, and evolution of tax policy.

AT&T was part of conversations around broadband and tax policy, as well as conducting diligent monitoring of proposals focused on small cell wireless deployment, franchise fees and IP-enabled services. Despite a persistent lack of compromise between the House and Senate, there were positive conclusions for both Idaho and AT&T leading into the next session.