There has been a lot of talk about Idaho’s housing crisis, but much of it overlooks just how deeply this issue is affecting our community here in Pocatello. As a middle school teacher, I see this crisis play out in the lives of my students and their families every day. Affordable housing isn’t just a policy debate happening in Idaho; it’s a real, daily struggle for hardworking families right here in our neighborhoods.
That’s why I’m supporting Senator James Ruchti, Representative Nate Roberts, and Mary Shea for the Idaho Legislature. These leaders have shown their dedication to tackling this crisis with thoughtful, effective action. Senator Ruchti and Representative Roberts supported Senate Bill 1327, which shields tenants from having eviction records if their cases are dismissed. This common-sense protection prevents families from being unfairly penalized when they seek new housing. Meanwhile, Mary Shea has pledged to increase the supply of affordable housing while addressing harmful practices in the rental market. One of her key proposals is eliminating the misuse of rental application fees, which often burden renters already struggling to make ends meet.