Press Release: Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld Demands Full Accountability for Misuse of $853,700 in State Funds

By Press Release • December 17, 2024

The following press release was sent out by Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld (R-Twin Falls). Press releases do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of those at the Idaho Dispatch.

Twin Falls, Idaho — Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld (District 24) is calling for full restitution and accountability following the misuse of $853,700 in state funds originally intended for the East Idaho Forensic Pathology Center (EIFPC).

“Idaho State University (ISU) and Bannock County have betrayed Idahoans’ trust by misusing taxpayer dollars,” said Senator Zuiderveld. “When the project was found to be unfeasible, ISU was required to return the unspent funds to the state. Instead, ISU transferred the money to Bannock County, which then used it on expenses unrelated to the non-existent forensic center and outside the intent of the appropriation. Today, only $638,318 remains in the account.”

ISU has announced plans to recover the money from Bannock County and return the remaining funds to the state, but Senator Zuiderveld argues this is insufficient. “These funds were appropriated for a specific purpose and were misused. Every dollar spent improperly—beyond what remains—must also be repaid in full. Taxpayer dollars are sacred, and Idahoans deserve transparency, and immediate action is needed to ensure this does not happen again,” she said.

“The people of Idaho have a right to expect more from their leaders and institutions. Returning only part of the money while ignoring the broader issue is unacceptable. We must demand full restitution, accountability, and meaningful reforms to protect taxpayer dollars. I will keep pushing for transparency and solutions that rebuild public trust in the management of taxpayer funds,” Zuiderveld concluded.

For more information:
Contact: Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld
Phone: 208-280-0716
Email:GZuiderveld@senate.idaho.gov