The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to enhance the administrative procedures related to the Idaho Administrative Procedure Act and disciplinary actions. Key updates include the introduction of new provisions for informal dispositions of contested cases, clearer definitions for hearing conduct, and the requirement for agencies to index all effective declaratory orders and post final written orders on their websites. The bill also specifies the powers of the board overseeing these processes, including the authority to administer oaths and issue subpoenas, while ensuring that all actions are consistent with updated administrative rules.

Additionally, the bill revises the procedures for disciplinary actions against licensed professionals, particularly geologists, by outlining specific grounds for license refusal or revocation and ensuring due process through required hearings. It replaces the previous requirement for the attorney general to promulgate rules governing contested cases with authority granted to the office of administrative hearings. The bill also emphasizes transparency by mandating public access to indexed orders and guidance documents, while establishing qualifications and duties for hearing officers to ensure independence and accountability in the administrative hearing process.

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