Resolution 2025-0815 Establishing Dedicated Staff Support for Idaho State Legislators

Resolution 2025-0815

Establishing Dedicated Staff Support for Idaho State Legislators

Melanie Vander Freer PC 203

WHEREAS, Idaho is one of only three states in the nation that does not provide personal or year-round staff support to its legislators;

WHEREAS, Legislators are expected to review complex legislation, respond to constituent needs, analyze state budgets, and develop sound policy — often while maintaining outside employment;

WHEREAS, The lack of dedicated staff results in increased reliance on lobbyists, special interest groups, and partisan organizations for information and research;

WHEREAS, Access to qualified  dedicated staff would improve legislative efficiency, transparency, responsiveness, and the overall quality of governance in the State of Idaho; and

WHEREAS, Providing minimal staff support would not constitute government overreach, but rather equip elected representatives to fulfill their constitutional duties more effectively on behalf of their constituents; therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Idaho Legislature supports the creation of a legislative dedicated staff program, whereby each elected legislator is allocated a qualified aide to assist with:

    •    Legislative research and bill drafting,

    •    Constituent communication and casework,

    •    Scheduling and administrative duties,

    •    Policy analysis and district-specific support; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, That this resolution be sent by the KCRCC Secretary to all Idaho Legislators; and to the 2026 Idaho GOP Winter Meeting for consideration.

Adopted by the KCRCC August 2025 Author Melanie Vander Freer PC 203