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ID S1129

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/24/2025

Primary Sponsor

Judiciary and Rules Committee

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2025 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates a new civil cause of action allowing individuals to sue governmental entities or employees who violate their religious liberty (Article I, Section 4) or freedom of speech (Article I, Section 9) rights under the Idaho Constitution

  • Government may only substantially burden religious exercise if it demonstrates the action is essential to a compelling governmental interest and uses the least restrictive means available

  • Caps noneconomic damages at $20,000 and attorney's fees at $25,000 for prevailing parties; judicial officers are exempt from costs unless they acted clearly in excess of their jurisdiction

  • Preserves the ability of governing boards to adopt reasonable policies regulating conduct at public meetings and hearings

  • Declared an emergency measure, taking effect July 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Adds to existing law to establish provisions regarding the deprivation of religious liberty or freedom of speech by a governmental entity.

ACTIONS IN PARTICULAR CASES

Last Action

Reported Printed; referred to State Affairs

2/25/2025

Committee Referrals

State Affairs2/25/2025
Judiciary and Rules2/24/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available