News & Commentary

View of the Idaho Capitol on the right side looking up with blooming flowers and a pink sky

Idaho State Lawmakers Attempt to Block Cities from Banning LGBTQ+ Discrimination

State lawmakers introduced a bill to ban city/county anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ folks. Currently, 12 Idaho cities and two counties have these protections in place.

Latest Press Release

Feb 10, 2026

ACLU Files Lawsuit Against Federal, State, and Local Police for Mass Immigration Raid at Family Event in Wilder, Idaho

The putative class action lawsuit challenges an immigration raid carried out at a popular family event in Wilder, Idaho.

A large number of community members are detained and questioned by law enforcement in Wilder, Idaho.

More from the Press

Stay informed on civil rights issues. Discover our latest actions and updates in the Press Release section.

Sandpoint Removes Longstanding LGBTQ+ Protections

Sandpoint City Council's removal of longstanding discrimination protections for the LGBTQ+ community departs from Idaho's core values of fairness and respect.

287(g) Agreements in Idaho

Idaho has signed eight new 287(g) agreements since President Trump took office in January 2025.

The Trans and LGBTQ+ flags waving in the wind in front of the Supreme Court Building in DC.

What the Marriage Equality Backlash Taught Me About the Fight for Trans Rights

Anti-trans laws aren’t just about bathrooms or sports, they’re about systematically pushing trans individuals out of public life.

Sep 28, 2016

Artists Win Lawsuit Against Idaho Alcohol Laws

Idaho State Police Agree to Permanent End to Restrictions on Artistic Expression

a venue with people sitting and waiting for the show to start from the back of the room, with words "Don't limit Artistic Expression in Idaho" "Justice Served" "#legalizeidahoart" and "#uncoveridahoart"

Sep 15, 2016

Art Gallery, Theater, and Acclaimed Artist File Lawsuit Challenging Restrictions on Live Performance

Idaho Alcohol Laws Violate Free Speech, ACLU and Co-Counsel Lawsuit Contend

image of people sitting waiting a performance with words "don't limit artistic expression in Idaho" "#legalizeidahoart" "#uncoveridahoart"

Jun 13, 2016

Copper Court Records Released

The five organizations requesting these documents hope documents shed light on government action and promote further transparency.

Cooper court encampment with police officers in the background

Apr 06, 2016

ACLU OF Idaho Commends Governor Otter on Veto of SB 1342a

The ACLU of Idaho raised constitutional concerns before bill allowing for use of the Bible in science classes was vetoed by Gov. Otter.

a classroom full of desks and chairs with a holy bible on one desk

Mar 30, 2016

Federal Court Rules Against Idaho Department of Health and Welfare in Medicaid Classs Action

The ruling mandates important protections for due process rights.

Mar 24, 2016

ACLU Statement on Public Defense Bill Becoming Law

We applaud the legislature for taking the first step in reforming the public defender system in Idaho.

Gov. Otter standing at a podium signing a bill into law in the Governor's office with people standing around him

Mar 15, 2016

Is Idaho Complying with the Federal Real ID Act?

Can we trust Idaho government agencies to follow Idaho law?

Jan 22, 2016

ACLU Comment on Idaho Court’s Dismissal of Lawsuit Over Public Defense Crisis

“We will appeal this decision. We disagree with the court that it has no role in deciding the fate of our constitutional right to adequate representation."

infographic that says "1 in 3 Idahoans can't afford a private attorney so they must rely on public defenders. The system in Idaho is beyond broken. ACLU is working to fix it.

Dec 09, 2015

ACLU Statement on Cooper Court Protests at City Hall

What has transpired in the days since last Friday’s forcible eviction of homeless residents at the Cooper Court encampment is simply democracy in action.

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