Idaho: Secure Campuses and Apprentice Hunting Bills Sent to Governor

Yesterday, the Idaho legislature took positive steps on two important pro-gun bills.  Senate Bill 1254 and House Bill 399, both NRA-supported legislation, have passed in both legislative chambers and are now awaiting the signature of Governor Butch Otter (R).  The hard work and diligence of NRA members supporting these bills made all the difference!

Senate Bill 1254 passed in the Idaho House of Representatives by a 50-19 vote, and has been delivered to the Governor and it awaits his signature.  SB 1254, sponsored by state Senator Curt McKenzie (R-13), will permit qualified retired law enforcement officers and law-abiding adults who have obtained an Idaho “enhanced” concealed carry license to possess a firearm on public college or university campuses.  SB 1254 is an essential step toward protecting students and faculty on campus while still providing universities with the discretion to prohibit qualifying individuals from carrying within a student dormitory or residence hall and a public entertainment or sporting facility with a seating capacity of more than 1,000 persons.  The specific provisions of SB 1254 ensure that responsible, law-abiding individuals with enhanced training are able to carry a firearm for self-defense while on a public college or university campus.

House Bill 399 passed in the Idaho Senate by a 24-11 vote, and has been sent to the Governor for his signature.  HB 399 will lower the minimum age to hunt big game from twelve years to ten years, while retaining the requirement that an individual younger than twelve must be accompanied in the field by an adult licensed to hunt in Idaho.  This legislation seeks to recruit and retain more hunters in the Gem State through expansion of hunting rights to more individuals and encourages younger generations to take up the sport.  HB 399 will also keep economic resources in the state and bring in additional revenue through increased sales of resident junior big game tags and non-resident junior mentored big game tags.

Your NRA thanks all Idaho Senators and Representatives who voted for these positive bills.  With their support, and the grassroots efforts by NRA members, residents of Idaho are ensured that their Second Amendment freedoms are being protected.