OPINION: Economic dignity should be a legislative priority

In the upcoming legislative session, we’re going to hear many competing arguments about taxes, budgets, and government priorities. Considering that Republican mismanagement sent Idaho into a $58.3 million deficit, these conversations will be even more heated. In order to balance the budget, spending will need to be cut. 

When deciding what ends up on the chopping block, a simple guiding principle should shape every economic decision we make: dignity must come first. A healthy economy is measured by whether ordinary people can meet their needs, pursue opportunity, and build stable lives.

Economic policy should enhance dignity, not undermine it.

Dignity demands that every person has access to an empowering education that leads to gainful employment. Whether it’s technical training, community college, apprenticeships, or four-year degrees, education is the single most powerful tool we have for unlocking economic opportunity. In Idaho, this means fully funding our public schools, colleges, and universities, and protecting the Democratically-defended Idaho Launch program. These priorities give Idaho the best return on our tax dollar investment — not costly, confusing, school vouchers. Idaho should not hemorrhage tax dollars for families who can afford private schools up front in August, and wait for a tax return in April. The program lacks transparency and accountability. Repealing HB93 could easily trim the irresponsible budget deficit. 

By directing education dollars where they have the greatest impact, we help young people stay in Idaho, start careers, and contribute to the local economy.

Budget decisions, too, must reflect a commitment to dignity. The government cannot fund everything, nor should it. But it must prioritize spending on programs and infrastructure that deliver the greatest return for the smallest investment. That means focusing on early childhood programs that set kids up for success, mental health services that keep people stable and employed, and safety nets that keep the most vulnerable off the streets. These investments reduce long-term costs by preventing problems before they escalate. Smart budgeting isn’t just about trimming fat — it’s about investing wisely in ways that elevate people.

One clear place to start is with Idaho’s grocery tax. Idaho remains one of the few states that taxes groceries the same way it taxes luxury purchases. This tax hits working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and young people just starting out. It raises the cost of essentials — bread, milk, produce — items no household can go without. Repealing the grocery tax is not only economically sound, it is an affirmation that no one should be penalized for feeding their family. This is a change that Kootenai Democrats have championed for years, and we are thrilled that it finally has some bipartisan traction.

At the end of the day, promoting economic dignity means expanding opportunity at every level. It means creating an environment where small businesses can thrive, where workers can afford housing near their jobs, where seniors don’t have to choose between groceries and medical care, and where families aren’t one unexpected bill away from crisis. When people have access to opportunity, they contribute more, innovate more, and strengthen their communities.

Idaho has a proud tradition of self-reliance, hard work, and neighborliness. Our economic policies should reflect those values by ensuring that every person — not just the wealthy or well-connected — has a fair shot. Supporting policies that promote dignity for the largest number of Idahoans isn’t a partisan stance. It’s a commitment to building a state where people can succeed, provide for their families, and live with the dignity they deserve.

• • •

Sarah Martin is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.