Every year, the Idaho Legislature meets in Boise to consider new laws, changes to existing laws, the state budget, and agency rules. Decisions about occupational licensing, including cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and nail technology, can come up during this time.
When Does the 2027 Session Start?
Idaho law sets the start date: the regular session convenes at noon on the Monday on or nearest January 9. For 2027, that is Monday, January 11, 2027.
There is no fixed end date. Idaho sessions usually last about three months and often wrap up in late March or early April. The final day is called sine die.
Official session information: Idaho Legislature
Who Makes Up the Legislature?
Idaho has a part-time, citizen legislature with two chambers:
The Senate: 35 senators
The House of Representatives: 70 representatives
Idaho is divided into 35 legislative districts. Each district elects one senator and two representatives, so every Idahoan has three state legislators.
What Happens During the Session?
Bills are introduced and assigned to committees.
Committees hold hearings, where the public can often testify.
Each chamber votes on bills that make it out of committee.
The Governor signs or vetoes bills that pass both chambers.
Agency rules are reviewed by legislative committees.
The state budget is set.
Why It Matters to Our Industry
Many issues that affect licensed professionals are decided by the Legislature, such as who needs a license, education and training hour requirements, and how licensing boards are structured.
Even if you never testify, simply knowing when the session starts, which committees handle licensing bills, and who your legislators are puts you ahead.
How to Find Your Legislators
Use the "Who's My Legislator" tool on the Idaho Legislature's website to look up your district by address.
This article is for general education only.
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