2026 - HB 510 - Government Transparency

Bill Text:

This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to enhance government transparency and protect public employees' communications with the legislature. It revises Section 6-2105 to clarify the remedies available for employees bringing actions related to violations of the chapter, specifically changing the phrasing from "under" to "pursuant to" and adding protections for employees who communicate with the legislature. A new section, 6-2110, is introduced to establish provisions that protect public employees when they communicate in good faith with legislative members or staff, ensuring they cannot face adverse actions from employers for such communications.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new Section 74-127, which outlines the responsibilities of agencies in responding to public records requests from the legislature. Agencies are required to acknowledge requests within three working days and provide substantive responses within fifteen working days, with provisions for extensions if necessary. The existing Section 74-127 is redesignated as Section 74-128. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective immediately upon passage, with a specified full force date of July 1, 2026.Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 6-2105, 74-127