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JFAC approves library grants, digital access funding and limits on DEI spending after heated debate
Summary
The committee approved $1.231 million in grants for the Idaho Commission for Libraries, including $1.2 million federal funds for a digital access grant and $42,300 general fund for broadband reimbursement, and adopted language restricting state funds from supporting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) activities in library‑sponsored programs.
The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee on March 20 approved funding and a package of policy language for the Idaho Commission for Libraries after several hours of debate and a failed substitute motion.
Analyst Brooke Dupree summarized the commission’s requests: $42,400 for broadband reimbursement to eligible libraries; $30,000 for federal subgrants to local libraries (part of an available $40,000 federal grant); and $2.5 million in federal funds requested for the “Digital Access for All Idahoans” grant program. Senator Carlson moved a package that included $42,400 from the general fund and $1,231,000 one‑time federal funds for the digital access grant;…
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