The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to enhance the Idaho Administrative Procedure Act, particularly concerning contested case rules and disciplinary proceedings for licensed professionals. Key changes include the repeal of Section 67-5241, which previously addressed informal dispositions, and its replacement with a new section that outlines updated procedures for such cases. The bill also clarifies the authority of the board of environmental quality to administer oaths, issue subpoenas, and conduct hearings, while emphasizing the importance of a fair hearing process for individuals aggrieved by departmental actions. Additionally, it introduces new definitions, such as "administrative law judge" and "presiding officer," to clarify roles in administrative hearings.

Further amendments streamline administrative procedures by shifting the responsibility for rule promulgation from the attorney general to the office of administrative hearings, which will now govern contested cases, except for specific actions by the department of water resources. The bill establishes procedures for declaratory rulings, default orders, and emergency orders, while also mandating that agencies index and publicly post final orders and guidance documents. It updates the terminology from "hearing officer" to "law judge" and outlines the qualifications and appointment process for the chief administrative law judge, ensuring independence and impartiality in administrative proceedings. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part is deemed invalid.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-107, 54-314, 54-2412, 54-2819, 54-5315, 67-5201, 67-5206, 67-5232, 67-5241, 67-5242, 67-5244, 67-5245, 67-5247, 67-5249, 67-5250, 67-5251, 67-5252, 67-5281, 67-5282, 67-5283, 67-5284, 67-5286
Engrossment 1: 39-107, 54-314, 54-2412, 54-2819, 54-5315, 67-5201, 67-5206, 67-5232, 67-5241, 67-5242, 67-5244, 67-5245, 67-5247, 67-5249, 67-5250, 67-5251, 67-5252, 67-5281, 67-5282, 67-5283, 67-5284, 67-5286