This bill appropriates $6.5 million from the Federal Grant Fund to the Military Division for fiscal year 2026. The funds are designated for operating expenses to replace climate control systems in Air National Guard buildings located at Gowen Field. The legislation includes a declaration of emergency to ensure the money is available immediately for these repairs.
This bill is a concurrent resolution that formally expresses the Idaho Legislature's support and commendation for the Idaho National Guard. It recognizes the Guard's dual role in state emergency response and federal military service while highlighting specific modernization efforts, including the Air National Guard's transition from A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft to F-16 Fighting Falcons and the Army National Guard's shift from an Armor Brigade Combat Team to a Mobile Brigade Combat Team. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves to acknowledge the Guard's service history and endorse its ongoing force structure changes.
This bill (H 544) increases the annual paid leave entitlement for Idaho state employees serving in the National Guard or military reserves from 120 to 160 hours. It directly affects state employees who are active military members, ensuring they can take leave for duty without losing pay or job standing. The bill also clarifies that employees with irregular schedules ("uncommon tours of duty") will receive prorated leave based on their regular biweekly hours, aligning with federal guidelines. The change takes effect July 1, 2026.
