Idaho revenues on track for big surplus

Idaho budget analysts say the state is on track to run up an end-of-the-year surplus of roughly $108 million.

However, that number could increase even more if the state sees moderate 4.5 percent revenue growth during this fiscal year, which started at the beginning of July.

The Spokesman-Review reports that the end of the year surplus is a relief to legislative budget writers, who spent three days this week getting a preview of upcoming expenses. This includes a multimillion-dollar wildfire tab and pay increases for teachers.

Idaho’s Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee drafts the budget during the 2016 legislative session. Once written, the rest of the legislative body rarely makes significant changes before approving it.