2026_3_19 When Cuts Cost More with Sheriff Sam Hulse and DeVere Hunt

The City Club of Idaho Falls forum, “When Cuts Cost More,” highlighted the growing strain on Idaho’s mental health and crisis response systems following Medicaid and program cuts. Sheriff Sam Hulse and DeVere Hunt emphasized how reduced services—especially peer support and regional behavioral health coordination—are increasing pressure on law enforcement, jails, and emergency departments. They underscored the importance of community-based crisis centers, collaboration, and continued advocacy to prevent vulnerable individuals from falling into cycles of crisis and incarceration.