Bill > H0281

This bill, known as the "Bolter-Stall Defend the Defender Act," amends two sections of Idaho law to increase penalties for assaults and murders targeting peace officers. Specifically, for certain assault offenses against a peace officer (such as battery with intent to commit a serious felony), the bill introduces a mandatory minimum imprisonment term of 15 years, with a possible maximum of life in prison. In cases of first-degree murder involving a peace officer, the bill mandates a minimum confinement period of 35 years, compared to the previous 10-year minimum, during which the offender would not be eligible for parole, discharge, or sentence reduction. The law applies to a wide range of public safety personnel, including police officers, prosecutors, public defenders, emergency dispatchers, and correctional officers, and aims to provide enhanced legal protection for these professionals by imposing stricter criminal penalties on those who assault or murder them while they are performing their official duties. The bill will go into effect on July 1, 2025, and was enacted with an emergency declaration.

Justice

Ways and Means Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0281/