Rating: 0

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1106 appropriates $98,404,500 to the Idaho Judicial Branch for Fiscal Year 2026. The funds are allocated across all levels of the judiciary, including the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, District Courts, Magistrate Division, Water Adjudication, and various specialty court programs such as drug and mental health courts. Funding comes from a mix of sources including the General Fund, federal grants (such as ARPA), and dedicated court-related funds. The bill also includes provisions for reappropriating unspent ARPA funds from FY25, outlines retirement contribution procedures for judges, and grants the Judicial Branch authority to move funds between programs and expense classes, while restricting transfers between funds without legislative approval.

Reason for Rating:
While the bill provides necessary operational funding for Idaho’s judicial system—a core function of government—it includes elements that warrant caution under the Idaho Republican Party Platform. The broad transfer authority between programs reduces fiscal oversight, and the continued use of federal ARPA funds raises concerns about Idaho’s dependence on federal dollars. However, the bill does not create new programs, raise taxes, or significantly expand government scope. It maintains existing services and judicial functions, making it neither a clear violation nor a direct advancement of platform principles. Therefore, the bill is appropriately rated as neutral.