Idaho State Police details staffing shortfalls, fentanyl and forensics funding requests

The Idaho State Police (ISP) presented its FY2026 budget request to the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee on Feb. 12, describing multiple enhancement requests, workload increases and persistent staffing shortages—particularly in northern Idaho.

Noah Peterson, budget policy analyst with the Legislative Services Office, walked the committee through ISP’s division overview, funds and proposed enhancements. Peterson said the division has 583.67 full-time equivalents (FTP) and reported 38.67 positions vacant as of August, with an average five-year fill rate of 92.5%.

Peterson and Director Colonel Bill Gardner highlighted several items in ISP’s FY2026 request. Key ongoing and one-time items presented included: - A fentanyl-focused unit: an enhancement adding 10 FTP and $1,043,300 to target fentanyl trafficking and mitigation. Peterson identified the request as a priority enhancement. - Forensic staffing and facilities: a request for a deputy forensic lab manager (1 FTP, $118,200) to help manage an expanding forensic services program and a new Meridian forensic laboratory; Peterson said forensics is also converting temporary contractors to full-time roles. Gardner said the Meridian lab will be a “top of the line” facility to consolidate staff and equipment and add room for growth. - Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SACI)…