ID H0148

Idaho citizens involved in federal legal proceedings concerning grazing or water rights may request state assistance through the Constitutional Defense Council by submitting a written petition explaining the state's interest and case details.

Available assistance includes funding private counsel, reimbursing denied attorney's fees, Attorney General representation, or state intervention in the case, with funds drawn from the Constitutional Defense Council fund.

The Council must deliver a written decision within 30 days of receiving a petition and has sole discretion to grant, deny, or partially approve requests.

Approval criteria include the societal importance of the right, burden on the petitioner, number of citizens who would benefit, public interest, available state resources, and whether the action would advance Idaho's sovereignty.

Declared an emergency measure, effective July 1, 2025.