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Idaho AG asks U.S. Supreme Court to hear state’s gender care coverage ban case • Idaho Capital Sun

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Idaho AG asks U.S. Supreme Court to hear state’s gender care coverage ban case • Idaho Capital Sun


Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit challenging the state’s law banning public funds from covering gender-affirming health care.

The new law took effect in July, banning Idaho Medicaid and public funds from covering gender-affirming medication and surgeries.

Transgender and nonbinary Idahoans on Medicaid who sued in 2022 — alleging Idaho Medicaid has an unwritten policy of denying or delaying gender-affirming care coverage — this year amended their lawsuit to seek to block the new law. 

Labrador asked the Supreme Court to review if refusing coverage for sex-reassignment surgeries violates the U.S. Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause. 

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The U.S. Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C. (Ariana Figueroa/States Newsroom)

Labrador filed his request for U.S. Supreme Court review, formally called a petition for writ of certiorari, on Dec. 5. That was a day after the nation’s highest court heard oral arguments in a case challenging Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, called United States v. Skrmetti.

Petitions for writ of certiorari are a process to appeal lower court decisions directly to the U.S. Supreme Court. 

The court hardly approves such requests; each term, the court hears oral arguments in about 80 among the 7,000-8,000 petitions filed, SCOTUSblog reports. Approval requires votes by four of the nine justices.

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What Labrador’s cert petition requests

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Labrador’s request asked the court to hold his petition until the Tennessee case is decided since “this question will likely be answered by Skrmetti.”

The request then asks the court to remand Idaho’s case to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider its decision in September denying Idaho officials “qualified immunity.” 

Idaho Inauguration
Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador is sworn in on the steps of the State Capitol building on January 6, 2023. (Otto Kitsinger for Idaho Capital Sun)

The suit from Tennessee already before the Supreme Court deals with “substantively identical issues” to Idaho’s, Idaho Office of the Attorney General spokesperson Dan Estes told the Idaho Capital Sun in a statement. 

“Multiple circuit courts have ruled over the last two years that states can regulate sex reassignment treatments without violating the Constitution,” Estes said in a statement. “We hope the Supreme Court will agree and issue a ruling confirming the constitutionality of Idaho’s alleged policy of not covering sex reassignment surgeries under Medicaid.”

In July, federal judge Raymond E. Patricco, chief magistrate judge in the District of Idaho, issued a temporary restraining order that had blocked Idaho’s new law only for the seven suing patients in the lawsuit, but the order expired. 

On Nov. 22, Patricco heard oral arguments on whether to grant a preliminary injunction, a broader, longer-lasting legal block against the law. He has not yet issued his ruling.

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What Idaho’s law does

The bill creating the new law — House Bill 668 — was approved by all but one Idaho Republican state legislator this spring before Gov. Brad Little signed it into law.

Bill sponsors argued the bill ensures that taxpayer dollars are not inappropriately used. Opponents said major medical groups say gender-affirming care is medically necessary and safe, and warned that the law could lead to a lawsuit.

According to the law, public funds cannot cover hormone therapy, puberty blockers or surgical procedures for the purpose “to affirm the individual’s perception” of their sex. But the law outlines other coverage of the procedures still legally allowed

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In response to the new law, Health West, the go-to gender-affirming care clinic in eastern Idaho, stopped providing gender-affirming care. The move appeared to be driven by fears of losing funding, the Idaho Capital Sun reported.

How much does gender-affirming care cost Idaho taxpayers? Health agency hasn’t said.

It isn’t clear how many Idaho Medicaid patients receive gender-affirming care. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has declined to answer questions about gender care coverage and costs, citing the litigation — but has said the agency hasn’t covered “any surgeries for gender dysphoria for adults or youth.”

Around 350,000 Idahoans are on Medicaid, which largely covers low-income and disabled people. Gender nonconforming people are at higher risk for being in a lower socio-economic status, a study in February found.

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Less than 1% of Idaho’s population is transgender — or about 7,000 Idaho adults and 1,000 Idahoans age 13 and up, according to estimates from the University of California-Los Angeles.

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Cert petition Labrador MH v. Adams 12-5-24



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GALLERY | Hundreds gather for immigration protest in Idaho Falls – East Idaho News

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GALLERY | Hundreds gather for immigration protest in Idaho Falls – East Idaho News


A young Hispanic woman shares her message, “Fight ignorance!! Not immigrants!!” Video: Throngs of protestors overflow from both sides of a bridge in downtown Idaho Falls near the Japanese Friendship Garden and frozen waterfalls.| David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

IDAHO FALLS — More than 350 protesters packed onto the Broadway bridge on Saturday in an array of support for local immigrants whose family members could be targeted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. While many were Latino, others were expressing solidarity were from other races and backgrounds — and all had a unifying message.

Here is our photo gallery of the event. You can read a story about it here.

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 Immigration protests in Idaho Falls

27.5 No one is illegal on stolen land

Don't bite the hands that feed you

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

2.1 Dont bite the hand that feeds you

27 Where is the love

Immigration protests - We're all immigrants

28 Families belong together

24.1 Protest

26 Will ICE make eggs cheaper

23 Mask

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration policy protest on Broadway bridge

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration protests in Idaho Falls | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

31 Mexican flag

30 We are the backbone of this country

26.5 I will debate anyone who agrees with illegal deportation

29 Subaru

28.5 My father works harder than you President

Hundreds gather on Broadway Bridge in Idaho Falls to protest possible immigration raids – East Idaho News

Hispanic kids hold signs stating "No human is illegal" and "Immigration reform." | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Immigration policy protesters congregate on the Broadway bridge in Idaho Falls on Saturday afternoon. | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

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Hundreds gather on Broadway Bridge in Idaho Falls to protest possible immigration raids – East Idaho News

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Hundreds gather on Broadway Bridge in Idaho Falls to protest possible immigration raids – East Idaho News


Photo: Three Hispanic young women share messages about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) school raids and being raised by immigrant parents. The sign on the right says, “For my parents who came with nothing and gave me everything.” Video: Protestors thronged Broadway to voice opposition to federal U.S. immigration policy and tactics.| David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

IDAHO FALLS — Several hundred people overflowed both sides of the Broadway Bridge in Idaho Falls on Saturday. The rally was to support families who may be targeted or broken up by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) immigration raids as the federal government takes new measures to enforce immigration policy.

One young mother with a baby boy spoke on condition of anonymity because her father is an undocumented immigrant.

“Immigrants are the root of America. My dad, he’s been here since I was born — a farmworker,” she said. “We live in fear. My dad, you know our family right now; it’s a tough time for our community. It’s a tough time for our people.”

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The woman said after 25 years living in the United States, her father couldn’t attend the protest in person because he fears being deported.

“He picks our potatoes that we eat. You know, they want to send him back to Mexico. They want to to send him back. And that’s my dad,” she said, breaking down in tears. “I’m here today for him because he couldn’t be here. I had my sign. He put his handprint on my sign.”

An EastIdahoNews.com reporter counted more than 350 supporters at the peaceful protest, located adjacent to the frozen waterfalls and Japanese Friendship Garden along the scenic Snake River in downtown Idaho Falls. No counter-protesters were noted at the site.

Immigration policy protesters congregate on Saturday afternoon on the Broadway bridge in Idaho Falls. | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Signs such as: “School is for education, not deportation,” “They’re our neighbors,” and “Fight ignorance, not immigrants!” waved in the air, accompanied by cheers of “No fears! No hate! No ICE in our state!” and “Sí se puede!”

Other posters read: “We’re all immigrants,” “No human is illegal on stolen land,” “The Pilgrims were undocumented! #KnowYourHistory,” “We speak for those who can’t,” “Immigration reform,” and “Families belong together.”

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Event organizer Shantelle Duran said Hispanics and other immigrants are “business owners, workers, students, friends and neighbors.”

“We are here today to stand against racial profiling and unjust immigration policies that target our communities,” she said. “… We contribute to this country just like everyone else. The American flag represents us, too, and we will not be intimidated into silence. Our message is clear — we are here, we are staying, and we will continue to fight for our rights.”

Protesters gather on the bridge as cars honked their support throughout Saturday afternoon in  downtown Idaho Falls. | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com
Protesters gather on the bridge as cars honked their support throughout Saturday afternoon in downtown Idaho Falls. | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

Idaho Falls City Councilman Jim Francis attended the event to better understand this part of our community.

“I’m a strong supporter of community policing in all of its full meaning — that anybody in this community should be secure from crime against persons and property,” Francis said. “So it’s not the primary responsibility of our police department to look at immigration status. It’s to protect all the people who live here.”

The Idaho Falls Police Department’s full policy on immigration violations is outlined in policy 414 (pages 216-218), which states that for immigration violations, “an officer is encouraged to forgo detentions made solely on the basis of a misdemeanor offense when time limitations, availability of personnel, issues of officer safety, communication capabilities or the potential to obstruct a separate investigation outweigh the need for detention.”

Local Idaho Falls officers inform a supervisor if anyone is “detained for a criminal immigration violation.”

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In response to “federal immigration officials requests for assistance … the department may provide available support services such as traffic control or peacekeeping efforts.”

Immigration and Customs Enforcement does operate throughout Idaho, but “I’m honestly not aware of anything locally that’s a massive raid,” Francis said.

Law enforcement in Bannock and Blaine counties recently released statements refuting rumors about ICE raids in their communities. Social media in eastern Idaho has been rife with raid rumors for the past several weeks, but there has been scant evidence of any large-scale operations in the area.

RELATED | Local sheriff issues statement about ICE conducting deportation ‘raids’

RELATED | Police debunk viral Facebook post claiming ICE detained and abused local man

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The city’s police policy is designed to increase trust with the general public and minority groups.

“Because as soon as you create fear among community groups about law enforcement, then they won’t come forward and help you solve crimes, and that’s our job,” Francis said. “I don’t care if you’re a tourist here or somebody who’s lived here for your entire life; you deserve the same protection of law.”

The rally drew support from large numbers of cars who honked passing by.

Former Bonneville County Democrats Chairwoman Miranda Marquit said it’s the second-largest demonstration she’s seen in Idaho Falls in the past 10 years.

Despite little evidence of ICE raids in the area, many at the protest said its a very real fear for them.

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The anonymous mother with the boy urged her fellow immigrants to be careful.

“There’s posts on the internet — if you’re undocumented, stay home. It’s just what’s best. … They can’t, they can’t do anything at your door,” she said. “Stay safe to all the immigrants out there, you know, not just the Hispanics, but the Portuguese — everybody — all the immigrants.”

Hispanic kids hold signs stating "No human is illegal" and "Immigration reform." | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com
Hispanic kids hold signs stating “No human is illegal” and “Immigration reform.” | David Pace, EastIdahoNews.com

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From mist to magic: 8 iconic waterfalls of southern Idaho

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From mist to magic: 8 iconic waterfalls of southern Idaho


When considering places to see waterfalls, southern Idaho may not be the first place to come to mind. However, the region’s rolling hills, ancient volcanic formations, and deep canyons house some of America’s most unique waterfalls. Julie and I recently explored the area to discover its cascade wonders. We highlight eight waterfalls in southern Idaho that should be on your travel bucket list.

Shoshone Falls

Julie and I were apprehensive when we heard Shoshone Falls is dubbed the “Niagara of the West.” Well, seeing is believing. Much like Niagara, Shoshone Falls may not be the tallest waterfall, but you cannot deny its allure. Shoshone Falls quickly won us over with its raw power and sheer volume. In a word, we were mesmerized.

You will find the 212-foot natural wonder in Twin Falls, less than a two-hour drive southwest of the surreal . Shoshone Falls Park provides various vantage points along the rim and gorge where you can savor the view. We encourage you to try a few of the different perspectives.

Perrine Coulee Falls

A woman looking tiny in the photo stands next to the massive Perrine Coulee Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Our favorite waterfall on the list, Perrine Coulee Falls, gives you the rare opportunity to see the backside of water. That’s right. You can walk behind the plunging waterfall that drops nearly 200 feet over a cliff nestled in the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls. Be warned. You will get wet, but the experience and the views are worth it! Julie and I loved it so much that we went back to see it the following day.

As a bonus, the nearby stretches 1,500 feet across the Snake River, 486 feet above the canyon. Seeing the bridge and the Snake River Canyon took our breath. It is the only bridge in America where BASE jumpers can legally jump year-round. I encourage you to stop by the bridge early in the morning for the best odds of seeing BASE jumpers. It is something we will never forget.

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Pillar Falls

Perrine Bridge over Snake River  at Twin Falls,  Idaho, USA

While in Twin Falls, be sure to check out Pillar Falls as well. The best way to reach the natural wonder is by a pontoon boat ride or kayaking from Centennial Waterfront Park, one of the many . Trust me—it is worth it. You gain spectacular views of the Perrine Bridge and the Snake River from the canyon. Keep a watchful eye on the bridge. We were fortunate to witness a BASE jumper during our voyage to Pillar Falls.

Massive rock formations create a unique landscape, resembling pillars that soar above a waterfall shelf. The timing of your visit will impact the size of the falls. Although the waterfall may not be tall during summer, the views and the overall experience are so rewarding that it is still worthwhile.

Minnie Miller Falls

The small town of Hagerman is home to Thousand Springs State Park, which consists of six unique units. One of those units, Ritter Island, sits between two natural springs along the legendary Snake River. Julie and I could not believe how crystal clear the water was in these springs. Surrounded by lush green plants and towering basalt cliffs, you cannot help but gaze in awe.

You will walk across a footbridge to reach the island. After a short stroll on the island, you will discover several streams cascading down a cliff covered with verdant vegetation. It is unique, if not peace-inducing. During your visit, spend a little time touring the historic dairy farm.

Lemmon Falls

Lemmon Falls in southern Idaho

After visiting Minnie Miller Falls, check out Lemmon Falls on the mainland across from Ritter Island. With a short walk, you will observe two gushing streams pour over a bluff, combining into a wide waterfall descending the cliff.

Lemmon Falls is the most impressive of the two waterfalls at Ritter Island. However, both are worth your time. Since these two are so close together, enjoy a morning or afternoon of exploring the natural beauty and history of Ritter Island and Minnie Miller Farm.

Niagara Springs

Part of Thousand Springs State Park, Niagara Springs, is reminiscent of Minnie Miller Falls with a closer vantage point. The drive into a 350-foot-deep section of the Snake River Canyon is half the fun of accessing this waterfall. Please note the narrow road is steep and full of curves. The drive eventually yields a roadside view of white rapids tumbling through lush green cliffside vegetation. Keep a watchful eye. The area is known to attract birds and wildlife.

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Malad Gorge and Devil’s Washbowl

The Malad River winds through the famous Malad Gorge under a dramatic sky in southern Idaho.

Many consider Malad Gorge the crown jewel of Thousand Springs State Park. The Malad River, a 12-mile-long tributary of the Snake River, carves a canyon through basalt rock, tumbling over a cliff and into a deep basin called the Devil’s Washbowl.

Julie and I thoroughly enjoyed our time here. We marveled at the massive black rock gorge and spotted quails and yellow-bellied marmots. You can view the gorge by walking across a footbridge and from various overlooks along a short drive through the park.

Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve

Yet another section of Thousand Springs State Park, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs, requires a hike into its namesake canyon. Along the way, you will savor spectacular views of the canyon. Your reward is a breathtaking scene of a 20-foot waterfall thundering over rocks into a crystal-clear pool of water.

Plan Your Southern Idaho Adventure

Whether you want to discover natural attractions on foot or by car, southern Idaho has it all. Julie and I enjoyed exploring the region’s deep rocky canyons and ancient volcanic formations. Although a surprise, the southern Idaho waterfalls made a lasting impression.

As you plan your adventures, check out our recommended . These are among some of our favorite lodgings throughout the country. Never stop exploring!



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