Your Daily Briefing – 03/27/2026

MAGIC VALLEY NEWS

CHILDCARE CUTS PROPOSED

Idaho lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 1419, which could make it harder for families to qualify for childcare assistance. The bill lowers income limits and reduces asset caps. Advocates warn this could push struggling families out of the program. The measure now heads to the full Senate.

FIREFIGHTER BILL DELAYED

A proposal to boost Idaho’s volunteer firefighter ranks is being pushed to the next legislative session. Lawmakers cite tight state finances and the need to expand the bill. Supporters say efforts to improve recruitment, funding, and protections will continue.

“BENJI’S LAW” ADVANCES

A bill aimed at protecting high-risk infants is moving forward. “Benji’s Law” would require welfare checks within 12 hours when abuse risk factors are present. The legislation follows the death of a 12-day-old baby in Nampa and now heads to the full Senate.

PRISON OVERCROWDING

Idaho is moving inmates out of state as prisons exceed capacity. So far, 120 inmates have been transferred to Arizona, with 200 more planned. Officials say it’s a temporary fix while the state works on long-term solutions.

STRICTER PENALTIES FOR PRISON ABUSE

House Bill 696 is headed to Governor Brad Little. The bill strengthens penalties for prison staff accused of sexual abuse, expanding the definition so any inappropriate contact becomes a felony. Lawmakers say it closes legal loopholes.

TOW WARNING FROM ITD

The Idaho Transportation Department is warning drivers not to ignore tow notices. If your vehicle is towed by law enforcement and you don’t respond quickly, you could lose your vehicle title. Officials urge immediate contact with the towing company.

DEADLY I-15 CRASH

Idaho State Police are investigating a fatal crash near Pocatello. A northbound car crossed the median and hit a semi head-on. The 69-year-old driver was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene. Southbound lanes were blocked for four and a half hours.

SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL RESULTS

Salmon shut out Wood River 10-0 in five innings, staying perfect early in the season.

WEEKEND BASEBALL SCHEDULE

Twin Falls vs Highland — doubleheader at 2 PM (split locations)
Wendell vs Garden Valley — noon and 2 PM
Burley (7-0) vs Mountain Home — 3 PM and 5 PM

Tomorrow:
Minico at Pocatello — 11 AM & 1 PM
Twin Falls vs Bonneville — noon & 2 PM
Wendell at Soda Springs — 4 PM

SOFTBALL

Wendell travels to Soda Springs tomorrow for a 4 PM conference matchup.

CSI DOMINATES

College of Southern Idaho crushed Colorado Northwestern 14-4 in five innings.
Stetson Critchley: home run, 4 RBIs
CSI now 30-5 overall, 5-0 in conference
Golden Eagles host a doubleheader today starting at noon.