Rating: +1

Bill Summary:
H0106 repeals and replaces Section 22-202A of Idaho Code to clarify the structure and authority of county fair boards. Under the new law, an advisory fair board—which currently serves only in an advisory capacity to the board of county commissioners—may petition to become an independent fair board with operational control, governed under the broader provisions of Chapter 2, Title 22.
To initiate this transition, a majority of fair board members must sign a petition, after which the county commissioners must hold a public hearing. The transition is only approved upon a majority vote of the county commissioners and a three-quarters (¾) vote of the fair board members. The bill includes an emergency clause and becomes effective July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:
H0106 promotes local control, community autonomy, and voluntary governance, aligning directly with the Idaho Republican Party Platform. It empowers local fair boards to transition out of an advisory-only role and operate more independently—but only with strong local support and accountability to both the fair board and county leadership. This reform respects rural traditions, streamlines public decision-making, and avoids state overreach or new bureaucracy. It strengthens local agriculture and civic engagement while keeping government limited and responsive.