Bill > H0344

This bill amends Idaho law to place additional restrictions on the governor's ability to declare and maintain a state of disaster emergency. The key changes include requiring that a disaster emergency can only be declared if the governor has simultaneously convened a special legislative session addressing the emergency, and limiting the duration of a disaster emergency to a maximum of 60 days from the initial declaration. The bill preserves the governor's existing powers to issue executive orders during an emergency, but emphasizes that such orders must be narrowly tailored to protect life and property without unnecessarily restricting people's ability to work or contribute to the economy. The bill also explicitly prohibits the governor from using an emergency declaration to alter existing state laws, seize firearms, or impose additional restrictions on constitutional rights such as firearm possession, assembly, or religious freedom. These provisions aim to provide more legislative oversight and limit the scope of gubernatorial emergency powers, ensuring that emergency declarations are temporary, focused, and do not infringe on individual liberties. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause indicating its immediate importance.

Government Affairs

State Affairs Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0344/