Bill > S1295

This bill amends existing Idaho law to clarify when a person can use resistance, including the display or declaration of a firearm, to prevent an offense against themselves or their family, or to prevent illegal attempts to take or injure property. Specifically, it revises the definition of "defensive display or declaration of a firearm" to include verbally stating possession of a firearm, taking a firearm out of its container or holster, and placing a hand on a firearm while it's secured, provided a reasonable person would believe physical force is necessary to protect against unlawful physical force, including deadly force. The bill also clarifies that this right to resist does not require a person to display or declare a firearm before using physical force if they are otherwise justified in doing so, and that the reasonableness of the force used will be judged from the perspective of someone in the same situation without hindsight. The bill also declares an emergency, making its provisions effective on July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs, Justice

State Affairs Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1295/