State of Idaho Archives: on Technology
Brad Little:
Adequate broadband infrastructure for both rural & urban
Idaho is seeing unprecedented economic growth in many parts of the state. However, that growth has not been matched in all our communities. In my travels, I constantly hear how the absence of adequate broadband infrastructure is a deterrent to growth
and economic development. The Idaho Department of Commerce spent the past year analyzing the statewide challenge of inadequate broadband.To ensure Idaho can adapt to the rapidly evolving digital world, we must actively work to improve Idaho's
broadband access, pursuing all options to increase broadband connectivity. I will work with the Legislature to ensure both rural and urban Idaho are connected and well-positioned to attract and create maximum success.
Looking long-term,
we must address transportation deficiencies: specifically, the safety of our roads and bridges and the necessary improvements to preserve our citizens' most precious commodity: their time.
Source: 2019 State of the State address to Idaho legislature
Jan 7, 2019
Brad Little:
Cybersecurity Task Force: modernize government data
State government has a duty to protect the data citizens entrust to us. I chaired the Cybersecurity Task Force three years ago and we have made progress on this important issue. Following these efforts, my budget recommendation lays out a plan for
IT and cybersecurity modernization. This effort will significantly reduce our cyber vulnerability and provide long-term savings with the ultimate goals of protecting citizens' data and building public confidence.
Source: 2019 State of the State address to Idaho legislature
Jan 7, 2019
Brad Little:
Improve highway system; invest in broadband
One thing I consistently hear about is our transportation system. In a growing state, we must move people and products as safely and efficiently as possible. I am recommending that we direct close to $100 million to maintain and improve the state's
highway system. I am also pursuing another strategic investment--improvements in Idaho's broadband infrastructure. For both urban and rural Idaho to attract business and enhance our citizens' quality of life, Idaho must be connected.
Source: 2020 Idaho State of the State address
Jan 6, 2020
Butch Otter:
Support STEM Action Center and Computer Science Initiative
I'm urging supporting the STEM Action Center and its groundbreaking Computer Science Initiative. They already are having a significant impact on thousands of educators and tens of thousands of students.
But the demand is there to expand their reach to help ensure every Idaho student and teacher gets the chance to embrace the STEM fields and the tremendous growth of career opportunities they provide.
Proficiency in science, technology, engineering and math form an increasingly essential link between K -12 and career readiness.
STEM education is critical to developing those skills most in demand in today's workplace.
Source: 2017 State of the State address to Idaho Legislature
Jan 9, 2017
Jim Risch:
Co-sponsored bill to protect small business from cyberattack
[Senators Jim Risch and Jacky Rosen joined Senator Catherine] Cortez Masto introducing legislation to help protect small businesses from expensive data breaches and cyber-attacks. Said Cortez Masto, "Unfortunately, small businesses that don't have the
resources to purchase expensive, sophisticated products. I'm proud to cosponsor legislation that will ease the burden on small business owners by allowing them to pool together to negotiate cheaper prices and keep their customers' data safe."
Source: Senate press release for 2020 Idaho Senate race
Jan 24, 2020
Paulette Jordan:
Strengthen cybersecurity to prevent election interference
One of the areas in which our country is most vulnerable to attack is in the area of cybersecurity. I would propose legislation to strengthen our cybersecurity in many areas, including preventing election interference. In addition to being under
investigation for receiving illegal foreign campaign contributions, our current Sen. Risch has actually prevented significant progress on securing elections in other areas. The DASKAA legislation would have helped greatly, but Risch personally killed it.
Source: The Idaho Press on 2020 Idaho Senate race
May 12, 2020
Ron DeSantis:
Enact protections for the data privacy of all Floridians
Big Tech companies have used their platforms to elevate preferred narratives and to stifle dissent, serving as a de facto council of censors. Florida was the first state to legislate protections for its citizens and we should build on this success.
These same companies make a fortune by selling user data. Floridians should not have their data utilized by Big Tech without providing affirmative consent and I urge the Legislature to enact protections for the data privacy of all Floridians.
Source: 2022 State of the State Address to the Idaho legislature
Jan 11, 2022
Page last updated: Feb 18, 2023