FAQs

The effort to move Oregon’s border has drawn support from prominent extremists, white nationalists and hate groups seeking to grow their own political capital. Supporters include Ammon Bundy, who led the armed Malheur standoff and has threatened police officers and harassed hospital workers, and Jared Taylor, who runs a publication that purports to show Black people are inferior to white people. Members of Patriot Front, one of the most active white supremacist groups in the country, also support secession.

Our water and property rights were secured under Oregon law, meaning there is no guarantee those rights will be transferred to or recognized by the state of Idaho.

Yes. Many workers — including hairdressers, nurses, farmers, and more — would need to pay for new, often expensive licenses just to be able to work and earn a living in Idaho. Similarly, small business owners would have to register their businesses with the state of Idaho and pay filing fees.

The minimum wage in Idaho is $7.25 — that’s 45% lower than here in Crook County, Oregon, meaning minimum wage workers would take a significant pay cut if we moved the border.

Idaho schools are some of the worst-funded in the nation — they spend less per student than any other state. This has led to flooded classrooms, collapsed roofs, and not enough bathrooms to serve students.

Moving the border could create huge healthcare deserts. There’s no guarantee that hospitals in Bend, Redmond, and the surrounding areas will accept Idaho health insurance. Idaho is also facing a major shortage of doctors — among the worst in the nation. “Even in areas of the state with high population density, such as the Boise area, patients often face months-long wait times to see primary care physicians,” according to the Idaho Statesman. This could result in hours of driving just to see a doctor or receive medical care.

Yes, there is a 6% sales tax in Idaho. This tax applies to most things you buy, including groceries, guns, over-the-counter medicine, and clothing. One study estimated that if Crook County becomes part of Idaho, we would pay $16 million in sales taxes.

When presented with the many challenges that moving Oregon’s border would create, the Greater Idaho movement has offered “no detailed plans.” Instead, their lead spokesperson seemingly dodged the question when asked by a reporter, saying “all of these things can be worked out.”