The Idaho Senate voted to tighten up the rules for Idaho Launch — by changing the way the state defines an in-demand career.
The definition matters because it sits at the heart of Idaho Launch, an incentive program that provides up to $8,000 to high school graduates who want to continue their education.
Passed in 2023, Idaho Launch deployed a simple definition of an in-demand career, based on job openings and industry growth. The new definition would go into effect in future years, and it factors in metrics such as earning potential, the transferability of job skills and the length of a training program.
The new definition is designed to tighten the fledgling program, said Senate Education Committee Chairman Dave Lent, R-Idaho Falls, the sponsor of Senate Bill 1390. But SB 1390 is also an attempt to shore up support for Idaho Launch, a polarizing program that barely passed the Legislature a year ago.
SB 1390 passed the Senate, over the objections of hardline Republicans. But the 25-10 roll call represents a wider margin than last year’s votes. This bill now goes to the House.
In the days to come, lawmakers are likely to take up the budget bill for Idaho Launch. Gov. Brad Little has proposed $70.8 million — enough to provide grants for nearly 9,000 of this year’s graduating high school seniors.
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