Bill > H0617

This bill amends existing Idaho law to establish provisions for "programmable money," which is defined as money that can be encoded with rules and conditions allowing for automatic control and use based on predefined parameters, such as denying transactions, restricting use by location or time, expiring, or being used for social credit scores. The bill explicitly excludes programmable money from the definition of "money" in certain contexts and amends definitions related to financial transactions. It prohibits issuers of programmable money from requiring its use without a free digital alternative, denying transactions based on discriminatory factors like gender, race, political opinion, medical history, or lawful activities, or using automation to enforce such denials. If a transaction is denied, the issuer must provide a specific reason within 30 days of a request. The bill also outlines remedies for violations, including civil actions for damages and attorney fees, and allows for the revocation of an issuer's authorization to do business in Idaho for intentional or repeated violations. Criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, are established for violations, with each denied or failed transaction considered a separate offense, though issuers can still decline transactions related to criminal acts. The act includes a severability clause and declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.