News & Commentary

Originally published in the Idaho Statesman on May 7, 2015. Link here.By: Ritchie Eppink, Legal Director, ACLU of Idaho

Advocates Ask Court for Judgment in Suit Against Law That Silences Industry Whistle-Blowers

We find ourselves battling stereotypes and outrageous laws criminalizing our homeless population. Find out more about what the ACLU is doing about it by reading Larry’s story. 

None of our supporters agree with 100% of the ACLU’s issues. Read Michael’s story to learn about his tumultuous love affair with our complex organization. 

Coalition Presents Constitutional Challenge To Law That Silences Industry Whistle-BlowersBOISE, Idaho – Today, a broad-based public interest coalition of national nonprofits, including the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho (ACLU), and Center for Food Safety (CFS), filed a motion for summary judgment in their lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Idaho’s “ag gag” statute. The coalition argues that they are entitled to judgment in their favor because the statute—Idaho Code sec. 18-7042—violates their right to free speech and other rights protected by the U.S. Constitution. As a matter of law, this statute cannot withstand legal scrutiny.

Student seeks apology and policy changes to prevent future wrong-doing to studentsDeclo, ID—Today Declo High School student Sierra Norman and her mother Janeil Norman filed a civil rights complaint against Declo High School with the Cassia County Joint School District. The complaint seeks to remedy violations of Sierra’s rights by the school district for failing to protect her against discrimination based on religion and sex. The ACLU of Idaho is representing Sierra and her mother.

Dear Mayor Bieter and Council Members:

Case Moves Forward to Challenge State Law That Silences Factory Farm Whistle-Blowers

Court of Appeals Agrees to Expedite Case over Telephone Records CollectionCOEUR D'ALENE, Idaho – The American Civil Liberties Union, the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) have announced they will join Anna Smith’s legal team in her challenge of the government’s bulk collection of the telephone records of millions of innocent Americans.