Bill Description: Senate Bill 1103 creates a $1 million "Idaho air travel enhancement program."

Rating: -3

Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?

Senate Bill 1103 creates Section 21-143, Idaho Code, to "establish and administer the Idaho air travel enhancement program." The bill also establishes "the Idaho air travel enhancement program fund" in the state treasury. Creating new programs and new funds are expansions of government. 

(-1)

Does it transfer a function of the private sector to the government? Examples include government ownership or control of any providers of goods or services such as the Land Board’s purchase of a self-storage facility, mandatory emissions testing, or pre-kindergarten. Conversely, does it eliminate a function of government or return a function of government to the private sector?

The stated purpose of the program established by this bill is "to develop and expand intrastate commercial air travel between communities located in Idaho." While this may (or may not) be a laudable goal, it is the proper role of the private sector to determine the size and scope of commercial air service. The government should not interfere in or attempt to influence the business decisions of the private sector. 

(-1)

Does it increase government spending (for objectionable purposes) or debt? Conversely, does it decrease government spending or debt?

The fiscal note for Senate Bill 1103 calls for a "one-time appropriation and transfer of $1,000,000 for FY 2022." The statement of purpose for Senate Bill 1103 claims, "The Idaho Air Travel Enhancement Program Fund will provide incentives to develop and expand intrastate commercial air travel between communities located in Idaho." Taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize (or provide incentives for) commercial air service in Idaho. 

(-1)