Rating: +1

Bill Summary:
H0006 authorizes the Idaho Attorney General to investigate and prosecute allegations of state criminal law violations committed by city elected officials in their official capacity—extending existing authority the AG already has over county officials. The bill defines “official capacity” to include actions taken while at work, using public resources, or claiming to act on behalf of their office. It grants the AG subpoena power for such investigations and provides for several outcomes: no further action, nonjudicial remedies like training, or direct prosecution by the AG. The bill also revises the AG’s statutory duties in Idaho Code § 67-1401 to include these responsibilities and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
H0006 reinforces the rule of law and strengthens accountability by ensuring that elected officials at the city level are held to the same legal standards as county officials. It does not expand bureaucracy or create new agencies but equips the existing Attorney General’s office with authority to act when local prosecutors are unable or unwilling to pursue legitimate criminal allegations. By addressing misconduct involving public resources and maintaining integrity in local governance, the bill aligns with the Idaho Republican Party’s principles of public trust, ethical leadership, and fiscal responsibility.