ID H0114

Amends Section 18-916 of Idaho Code to expand the crime of abusing school employees from only teachers in the presence of pupils to all public school employees acting within the course and scope of their duties.

Defines "abuse" as willfully and maliciously threatening, harassing, coercing, or intimidating conduct that would cause a reasonable person substantial emotional distress or fear of physical injury, excluding mere criticism or constitutionally protected speech.

Defines "public school employee" as persons directly employed by a school district or public charter school, including administrators, instructional staff, and pupil service staff, but excluding independent contractors.

Establishes that violation of this statute is a misdemeanor offense.

Becomes effective July 1, 2023, with an emergency declaration allowing immediate enactment.