I live in Oregon but watch local news and weather on Boise, Idaho, television broadcasts. The 2026 Idaho legislature sessions were quite amusing. Idaho is facing a significant income deficit due to previous miscalculations and the Trump Big Beautiful Bill. While the fiscal problems were addressed, they took a back seat to efforts to punish anyone who identifies with or supports the LBGT+ community.
The flag bill specifically outlawed the Pride flag that has flown in front of Boise City Hall even though the city had recognized it as an “official” flag. It seems that recognition of anything associated with LBGT+ offends many of the Christian Nationalists in the legislature since the Basque flag, among others, is welcome. Shame on Boise.
The bathroom bill is even more hilarious. Ostensibly, it is intended to protect girls and women but looks like a cure searching for a problem. Requiring businesses to ensure that no “trans” person uses a women’s restroom will be nearly impossible but necessary because of potential lawsuits. I expect that there will be many “No Public Restroom” signs appearing at Idaho businesses or help wanted signs recruiting P**ker Checkers.
Governor Little touts Idaho as the least regulated state. This may be true for building contractors and anyone who elects prayer over accepted medical attention for diseases and accidents often resulting in death, disfigurement and/or disability. Teachers, counselors, librarians, medical professionals and anyone dealing with abortion or LBGT+ must endure onerous restriction and scrutiny plus the ever-present possibility of civil lawsuits.
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