Bill > H0686

This bill amends existing Idaho law concerning public servants using their positions for personal gain, specifically focusing on the employment of relatives. It modifies a provision that previously allowed employees of governmental entities to retain their positions and receive pay increases if they held the job before a local government official was elected, by adding a condition that they must also meet requirements outlined in a new subsection (8) before a city's population exceeds 10,000. Crucially, the bill introduces a new exemption to the prohibition against hiring relatives within the second degree of blood or marriage to a mayor or city council member, provided the city has fewer than 10,000 residents, the position requires specific qualifications that the relative possesses, the job was publicly advertised for at least 45 days with no qualified applicants, the city made a good-faith effort to find other candidates, a detailed record of the hiring process is maintained, the city council approves the appointment in an open meeting after publicly disclosing the relationship, an unrelated supervisor manages the relative, and any compensation increases are limited to across-the-board adjustments. This exemption aims to allow smaller cities to hire qualified individuals with familial ties when other applicants are unavailable, while still maintaining transparency and oversight.

Government Affairs

Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0686/