Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1023, as amended, renames and expands the “Coronavirus Stop Act” to become the Idaho Medical Freedom Act. It prohibits any state, local government, school, or business operating in Idaho from requiring an individual to undergo any “medical intervention” — defined broadly as any treatment, injection, medication, device, or action intended to diagnose, prevent, or alter health — as a condition of employment, service, admission, education, or access to public buildings.

The bill ensures that no person may be denied services, benefits, government licenses, school attendance, or employment based on their refusal to submit to such medical interventions. Exceptions exist only where federal law mandates compliance, or where travel to a foreign jurisdiction requires it. The bill also permits traditional use of personal protective equipment (PPE) where customary, but explicitly excludes any vaccines or mandates introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic from being considered standard PPE. Enforcement is authorized through the Attorney General or county prosecutors, and the bill takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:

S1023 strongly aligns with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s commitment to individual liberty, limited government, parental rights, and medical freedom. It prevents coercive mandates from schools, businesses, or government agencies and places medical decisions squarely in the hands of individuals and families. By forbidding denial of public services and employment based on personal medical choices, it reinforces constitutional protections and platform principles against government overreach. While it may limit institutional flexibility in future health crises, the bill reflects the platform’s prioritization of personal freedom over bureaucratic control. For these reasons, it earns a positive rating.