Government for the People – Not Teachers Unions
Idaho taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to fund union politicking or activism.
HB 601 restores neutrality and accountability.
There’s a line between teaching and campaigning.
Across Idaho, taxpayer-funded school systems are being used to support far-left teachers unions, giving them more control over classrooms and more clout in politics.
That includes:
- Government payroll systems collecting union dues from teachers' paychecks
- Public dollars paying for time spent on union activism
- Taxpayer resources supporting organizations engaged in political advocacy
HB 601 draws a clear boundary:
Government should not fund teachers union operations.
Where your tax dollars are going
Public reporting shows that our tax dollars are quietly subsidizing teachers union activity:
- Idaho school districts collect over $1 million per year in union dues through taxpayer-funded payroll systems
- A portion of that money flows to national organizations engaged in political activity
- In the 2024 general election, 93% of Idaho teachers union political spending benefited Democrats
- Dozens of districts pay teachers to perform union work during the school day - not classroom instruction
This isn't speculation. It's documented.
This isn’t about teachers.
HB 601 protects teachers – and taxpayers.
HB 601:
- Does not ban teachers unions
- Does not limit teachers’ right to organize
- Does not reduce classroom funding
It simply says:
- Teachers unions should collect their own dues
- Union work should be paid for by unions – not taxpayers
- Political activity should not be subsidized by public schools
That’s neutrality. Not punishment.
Idaho voters agree
Polling shows that a majority of Idaho voters support:
- Ending taxpayer funding of teachers unions
- Ending government collection of union dues
- Limiting taxpayer-funded union release time
This isn’t extreme. It’s common sense.
Students Who Beat the Odds
Families across New Mexico are speaking up about how virtual schools helped their children succeed after traditional options failed them.
These stories are not about politics. They’re about students who needed flexibility, stability, and support – and finally found it.
Bertha’s Story
Learn how virtual learning sets students up for success from Bertha, who serves as a learning coach for her children.
Read More
The Truth
Know the Truth About Virtual Learning
Virtual schools are one-size-fits-all.
Many virtual programs offer highly individualized instruction, especially for students with disabilities.
Traditional brick-and-mortar schools can adequately educate all students.
Most virtual students made the move to online learning after traditional public schools failed to meet their needs.
Closing virtual schools protects kids.
For many families, removing virtual options removes access to education altogether.
Be Compassionate. Protect All Schools.
New Mexico has a long tradition of standing up for students who need extra support. Lawmakers can continue that tradition by ensuring that all students and all learning environments are protected.
Join Us to Stop HB 253