Idaho libraries ask JFAC to roll federal 'Digital Access for All Idahoans' program into base funding amid rollout

The Idaho Commission for Libraries told the Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee that it has begun implementing a federal Digital Access for All Idahoans program and asked the committee to approve ongoing state spending authority so the agency can keep projects running predictably.

Analyst Brooke Dupree told the committee the commission expects to spend up to $2.5 million per year on the program and said the appropriation would bring the funding into the agency base. "This digital access for all Idahoans grant is a federal grant. It was authorized through IIJA with those broadband monies that you see in the Department of Commerce budget," Dupree said, noting the commission expects additional federal notices of award that extend the program through February 2032.

Why it matters: Committee members pressed the agency on whether the state should assume continuing funding for a program that originated with one-time federal allocations. Committee leaders said making a temporary federal program permanent in the state base risks creating an expectation that general fund support will be provided after federal awards end.

Most important facts - The program is funded by a federal allocation under the Infrastructure Investment and…