This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to enhance the authority of the Attorney General in investigating allegations of violations of state criminal law by elected county and city officers. Specifically, it removes a provision that previously exempted violations of the open meetings law from such investigations. The bill introduces a new section, 50-238, which explicitly allows the Attorney General to conduct investigations against city elected officers, mirroring the existing provisions for county officers. Additionally, it clarifies the definition of "official capacity" for both county and city officers, ensuring that actions taken while using public resources or funds are included under this definition.

Furthermore, the bill makes technical corrections to existing laws regarding the duties of the Attorney General, including the ability to issue subpoenas during investigations and the clarification that the Attorney General's jurisdiction does not preclude county prosecuting attorneys from conducting their own investigations. The bill also emphasizes the Attorney General's responsibility to respond to allegations of violations by elected officials and to retain cases for further investigation or prosecution. An emergency clause is included, establishing that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 31-2002, 67-1401
Engrossment 1: 31-2002, 67-1401