Issues
Are you concerned about issues that you don't see addressed here? If so, contact me!
Business and Development
Idaho Falls has a unique combination of assets: great quality of life, high level of advanced education, a work force skilled in nuclear and other high technologies. Idaho must invest in attracting businesses of all sizes that leverage these assets.
Education
I am a strong proponent of public education, and recognize the need for our schools to better prepare our children with the skills they need for higher education and high paying jobs. We need all stakeholders to be involved in solutions, including concurrent enrollment, merit pay, appropriate class sizes, virtual and self-paced learning. We must invest in our education system to reap the benefits in a prosperous economy.
Health Care
I will work to ensure access to healthcare is available to all Idahoans, especially children and seniors, and to promote policies that encourage businesses large and small to offer affordable coverage to working families.
Local Control
Elected officials in cities, counties, and other taxing districts, shouldn't need to get permission from the Legislature to solve local problems with local options, including local option taxes, if the people approve.
Tax Policy
The middle class has borne the brunt of recent tax shifts. Idaho should remove the sales tax on groceries, and should pay for it by eliminating exemptions for special interests. Tax policy should be designed to promote investment in businesses that enhance our economy.
Substance Abuse
We have made progress in the last 2 years with funding substance abuse programs, but those advances have been threatened by a Governor and Legislature focused on the short-term. Treatment and prevention save tax dollars by reducing correctional expense and by helping people to be productive citizens and taxpayers.
Transportation
The 2007 legislature punted on solving the state's huge infrastructure deficit. The Governor has now asked for a tax increase of $240 million in on-going revenue to maintain roads and bridges. Unfortunately, he has not been forthcoming with detailed justification for that amount. He has made two proposals for how to raise the taxes: either a flat-rate $150 vehicle registration fee, or a 27-cent per gallon increase in the gas tax. Neither of those is a good option, nor do they adequately address the major source of most road damage - transporting our goods in and out of the state.
Everyone understands that costs for maintaining highways have gone up since the gas tax was last raised in 1996. The Administrations and Legislatures since then have failed to plan for those costs, leading to the current 'crisis', and a comprehensive solution is required. But the first step MUST be for the Governor and the Transportation Department to fully lay out their justification and priorities before the public.
In addition, regional equity must be addressed to ensure that taxpayers in Idaho Falls are not subsidizing further sprawl in the Treasure Valley.
I will work to allow local and regional option taxes for roads and mass transit in areas that choose to implement them.
Guns
I am a strong supporter of 2nd amendment rights, and will oppose any legislation that restricts responsible gun ownership.
Wilderness and Wolves
Idaho enjoys an unparalleled quality of life, largely due to the recreational opportunities provided by our lands. I strongly support efforts to protect our lands, water and air, and to promote multiple use, ensuring that both motorized and non-motorized users have areas in which to recreate.
While wolves have been re-listed under the Endangered Species Act, at least for now, the reintroduction has apparently been highly successful in establishing sustainable packs. When they are again delisted, it will be due to the recognition that their population has increased enough for their survival to be no longer in danger. In order to protect that status, I will support management by the Department of Fish and Game, including limited hunting where appropriate.