Advocacy
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May- 2025 -22 May
ADVOCACY UPDATE: LAVA HOT SPRINGS
Photo Courtesy of Edgar Zuniga Jr. via Flickr Major Victory for Private Property Rights in Idaho We are excited to announce that Idaho REALTORS® has secured a unanimous and landmark victory at the Idaho Supreme Court, overturning a restrictive short-term rental ordinance in Lava Hot Springs. This legal decision significantly reinforces the protection of private property rights, benefiting property owners throughout Idaho. In 2022, Idaho REALTORS® took action by filing a lawsuit challenging Lava Hot Springs’ ordinance, which restricted non-owner-occupied short-term rentals to commercial zones, effectively banning them from residential neighborhoods. Our stance was clear: this policy violated state law designed specifically to prevent such prohibitions and uphold private property rights. Yesterday, the Idaho Supreme Court unanimously supported our position, invalidating the city’s ordinance. This ruling explicitly affirmed that prohibitive zoning restrictions under the pretense of “regulation” violate Idaho state law and will not be tolerated. This outcome is a testament to REALTOR® advocacy in action. Your continued support and engagement have made a direct and meaningful impact, demonstrating how collective advocacy efforts protect property rights statewide. Thank you for your unwavering support and involvement. Together, we have strengthened property rights protections in Idaho, ensuring greater clarity and security for …
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Apr- 2025 -10 April
2025 Idaho REALTORS Legislative Session Review
The First Regular Session of the 68th Idaho Legislature completed its work on April 4, 2025, taking 89 legislative working days – 6 days fewer than 2024. Idaho REALTORS® (IR) was at the negotiating table for many policy discussions and played a critical role in the passage of several pieces of legislation during the 2025 Idaho Legislative Session including HB354, authored by Idaho REALTORS® and Representative Dustin Manwaring (R-29), which will ensure all 44 Idaho counties administer the Homeowner’s Exemption in a uniform manner; HB266aa,aaS & SB1164aa, which ensure a more efficient inspection / reinspection process and timely permit responses from local governments; HB149, which is a consumer protection bill relating to “mortgage trigger leads” and correcting unintended consequences to property owners being solicited by these types of practices. In addition, IR was proud to support legislation which will provide property tax and income tax relief to Idahoans in 2025 (HB40, HB304) and helped establish and adopt an interim housing committee (SCR103) over the summer, keeping private property rights and housing issues at the forefront of the Idaho Legislature’s discussions moving into 2026. Read the Full Legislative Session Review HERE
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Feb- 2025 -3 February
2025 REALTOR Day at the Capitol – Kicks Off at 1:30 pm MT
Register Today! Idaho REALTORS® 2025 Day at the Capitol kicks off Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, at 1:30 pm in the Lincoln Auditorium in the Boise Capitol Building. This signature event offers a unique opportunity for members to connect with Idaho’s Constitutional Officers, Legislators, and Judicial Representatives while gaining valuable insights into our advocacy efforts at the state level. The program kicks off in the afternoon and concludes with a celebratory happy hour at the Crystal Ballroom in the Hoff Building, located at 802 W Bannock St #202, Boise, ID 83702. Open to all REALTOR® members, this is a must-attend event that highlights the strength of our community and our commitment to supporting homeownership and property rights in Idaho. We hope to see you there!
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Jan- 2025 -7 January
Governor Brad Little’s State of the State: Address Key Highlights for REALTORS®
Yesterday, Governor Brad Little kicked off the 2025 Idaho legislative session with his State of the State Address, outlining his KEEPING PROMISES plan. This marks the beginning of an important season for Idaho REALTORS®, as we work to ensure that REALTOR® priorities are represented at the State Capitol. Here are a few key highlights that REALTORS® should know from the State of the State address: Housing & AffordabilityThe Governor’s plan aims to invest $15 million to boost Idaho’s housing supply, making homeownership more accessible for working families. He also emphasized cutting regulatory hurdles to streamline housing developments. Infrastructure GrowthWith Idaho’s growth, investments in infrastructure remain a top priority. The plan includes $50 million for transportation projects, along with continued funding for broadband and other infrastructure to support the state’s economy. Tax Relief$100M in additional tax relief for Idahoans, which will work to continue to reduce income, property, and grocery taxes for Idahoans. Workforce DevelopmentTo meet growing demand in construction and other skilled trades, the Governor’s plan committs $25 million to expand capacity at community and technical colleges. This investment will support industries critical to housing and development. Community SafetyThe Keeping Promises plan includes a continued focus on cybersecurity and crime …
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6 January
Raphael Barta Selected as Idaho REALTORS® Federal Political Coordinator for Senator Crapo
Idaho REALTORS® is pleased to announce that Raphael Barta has been appointed as the Idaho REALTORS® Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) to Senator Mike Crapo. Raphael, an IR past president, a Selkirk Association President and ROTY, and former Public Policy Committee member, brings extensive experience, a commitment to advocacy, and a deep passion for advancing REALTOR® priorities at the federal level. “Raphael’s leadership and extensive experience make him the perfect choice for this role.” IR President Julie Anglesey said. “I look forward to seeing the impactful work he will accomplish as our Federal Political Coordinator, representing the interests of Idaho REALTORS® at the federal level. We are confident that Raphael’s wealth of experience, leadership skills, and dedication will make him an exceptional advocate for Idaho REALTORS® on the national stage. Please join us in congratulating Raphael Barta on his new role as Federal Political Coordinator!” Raphael has been actively involved in North Idaho politics and has a longstanding history of leadership within the REALTOR® community. He has moderated candidate forums for county and state legislative offices for over six years, writes regular columns for the local newspaper and the regional Journal of Business, and has served on the Idaho REALTORS® Public …
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Dec- 2024 -19 December
December Wednesday Webinar Recording
Legislative Session Preview with House Speaker Representative Mike Moyle and Senate President Pro-Tempore Senator Kelly Anthon Watch HERE In this Idaho REALTORS® Wednesday Webinar, join us for an engaging discussion with Idaho House Speaker Representative Mike Moyle and Senate President Pro Tempore Senator Kelly Anthon, moderated by Max Pond. The conversation covers key topics for the upcoming legislative session, including tax reforms, Medicaid adjustments, property tax challenges, water management, and balancing growth with Idaho’s rural and urban needs. Speaker Representative Moyle and President Pro Tempore Senator Anthon also share their insights on the legislative process, leadership roles, and opportunities for collaboration. Watch today and learn how REALTORS® can play a role in advocating for policies that support their industry and communities. Mark Your Calendars: 2025 REALTOR Day at the Capitol Register HERE Mark your calendars for Idaho REALTORS® 2025 Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, at the Lincoln Auditorium in the Boise Capitol Building. This signature event offers a unique opportunity for members to connect with Idaho’s Constitutional Officers, Legislators, and Judicial Representatives while gaining valuable insights into our advocacy efforts at the state level. The program kicks off in the afternoon and concludes with a celebratory …
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Dec- 2023 -20 December
2024 Day at the Capitol
Wednesday, February 7, 2023 1:30 pm (MT)Lincoln Auditorium, Garden Level Idaho State Capitol 700 W Jefferson St. Boise, ID 83702 Join us February 7th for Idaho REALTORS® Day at the Capitol (All Times MT)The Below Schedule is Subject to Change 1:30 pm: Opening remarks from Idaho REALTORS® President Katrina Wehr & Government Affairs Director Max Pond 2:45PM – 2:55PM: BREAK 4:35PM: Adjourn Day at the Capitol Speakers include: The Honorable Governor Brad LittleThe Honorable Supreme Court Justice Robyn BrodyThe Honorable Lt. Governor Scott BedkeSuperintendent of Public Instruction Debbie CritchfieldHouse and Senate Majority and Minority Leadership Join Us for our Legislative Reception at Beside Bardenay at 5:30 pm. On February 7th, the Idaho REALTORS® will be hosting its annual Day at the Capitol event in Boise. This is a great opportunity for our members to come together and advocate for issues that are important to the real estate industry. We encourage all of our members to mark their calendars for this exciting day . We look forward to seeing you at the Capitol on February 7th!
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Apr- 2023 -27 April
Local Government Affairs Committees
Congratulations! Whether you are starting a government affairs committee or strengthening existing efforts, you are taking significant steps towards being a trusted and influential voice on all things real estate in your community. The fact is there is no offseason in politics. Policies that impact our industry and the people we serve are being developed every day at the city, county, state and national level. Having an effective government affairs committee will empower your association to help meaningfully shape those policies. Download the Local Government Affairs Flyer Download the 2023 Legislative Session Review TIP Advocacy is an immutable part of government affairs. Advocacy is a process. Successful advocacy is a long-term process. Contents Basics and NecessitiesNext StepsDevelop an Action PlanAdvocacy in ActionBuilding a Grassroots Network Resources Basics and Necessities Put simply, government affairs is the process of establishing and maintaining relationships with publicofficials and staff to positively influence the public decisions of legislative (i.e. city councils, countycommissions, state legislatures) or regulatory bodies (city building department, planning and zoning,municipal agencies, state or federal agencies) for your members, clients and communities. Getting Started Establish a government affairs committee. The mission and scope of the committee must be established up front. The committee …
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Jan- 2023 -5 January
2023 Day at the Capitol
Thursday, February 2, 2023 1:30 pm (MT)Lincoln Auditorium, Garden Level Idaho State Capitol 700 W Jefferson St. Boise, ID 83702 Join us February 2nd for Idaho REALTORS® 2023 Day at the Capitol The event kicks off in the Lincoln Auditorium at 1:30 PM (MT) *Agenda Subject to Change* 1:30 PM–Opening Remarks (Denise Lundy) 1:40 PM — Max Pond, IR Government Affairs Director 2:00 PM — Lt. Governor Scott Bedke 2:30 PM — Governor Brad Little 3 PM — House and Senate Majority Leadership 3:30 PM — House and Senate Minority Leadership 4 PM — Idaho Supreme Court Justice Robyn Brody Join us at Beside Bardney at 5:30 pm for a Legislative Reception
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Jan- 2022 -12 January
2022 Day at the Capitol
Tuesday, February 1, 2022 1:00 pm (MST)Lincoln Auditorium, Garden Level Idaho State Capitol 700 W Jefferson St. Boise, ID 83702 Join us February 1st for Idaho REALTORS® 2022 Day at the Capitol The event kicks off in the Lincoln Auditorium at 1:00 PM (MST) 1 PM–Opening Remarks (Patrick Malone) 1:10 PM — Max Pond, IR Government Affairs Director 1:50 PM — Break 2 PM — Legislative Leadership 3 PM — Idaho Supreme Court Justice Robyn Brody 4 PM — Governor Brad Little
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