Bill > H0088

This bill amends Idaho Code Section 18-5614 to change the legal classification of soliciting commercial sexual activity from a misdemeanor to a felony. The bill maintains the existing definitions of soliciting commercial sexual activity, which include paying, offering to pay, or agreeing to pay another person for sexual contact, or offering or agreeing to provide a third person for sexual contact in return for a fee. Previously, a first offense was a misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum jail sentence of five days and potential additional penalties, while subsequent convictions were felonies. Under this new legislation, any solicitation of commercial sexual activity will now be considered a felony immediately, eliminating the graduated approach of the previous law. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause, indicating the legislature views this change as urgent and important.

Justice

Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0088/