ID H0079

Grants civil immunity under Idaho Code Section 5-345 to first responders who enter or forcibly enter a motor vehicle to remove a dog or cat if they have reasonable, good faith belief the animal is in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm and use only necessary force.

Grants criminal immunity under Idaho Code Section 18-7045 to first responders, preventing prosecution for entry or forced entry into a motor vehicle to remove a dog or cat under the same conditions (reasonable belief of imminent danger and use of only necessary force).

Defines "first responder" as an emergency medical services provider, firefighter, peace officer, or person designated by a law enforcement agency.

Immunity does not extend to physical harm caused to the dog or cat, or to any other criminal actions or property damage unrelated to the act of entering the vehicle.

Declares an emergency, making the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.