Idaho: Two More Pro-Gun Bills Signed as Another is Sent to the Governor for his Consideration!

As the 2009 legislative session comes to a close, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter (R) has already signed various pro-gun bills and continues to do so.  Recently the Governor signed House Bill 229 and Senate Bill 1145, while House Bill 287 was sent to him for his consideration.

House Bill 229, sponsored by State Representative Pete Nielsen (R-22B), expands upon current “Emergency Powers” statute to prohibit additional restrictions on the lawful possession, transfer, sale, transport, storage, display or use of firearms or ammunition during a state of emergency.  HB229 was signed by the Governor on April 23.

Senate Bill 1145, sponsored by State Senator Mike Jorgenson (R-3), will ensure that records of Right-to-Carry permits issued to retired law enforcement are kept confidential.  On April 22, the Governor signed SB1145 into law.

House Bill 287, the “Employer Liability Act,” sponsored by State Representative Jeff Thompson (R-33A), would remove an employer’s liability for any accident related to a lawfully stored firearm, if the employer adopts a policy allowing its employees to keep firearms locked in their vehicles while parked on company property.  If the employer were to institute a policy that prohibits employees from storing lawfully owned firearms in their private vehicles while at work, the employer could still be held liable.  HB287 passed the Senate on Tuesday, April 21 with a vote of 26 to 8, with one absent, and was sent to the Governor for his consideration on April 27.

Thank you for all of your calls and be sure to check your e-mail and www.NRAILA.org for updates throughout the year.