The bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code to enhance and clarify 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 shifts the responsibility for promulgating rules from the attorney general to the office of administrative hearings, which will now oversee the creation and maintenance of rules for contested cases, while introducing new definitions and clarifying the powers of the board in disciplinary matters.

Additionally, the bill establishes new provisions for the appointment and conduct of hearing officers, replacing the term "chief administrative hearing officer" with "chief administrative law judge." It allows independent contractor hearing officers to be hired without restrictions on outside work, provided they disclose their engagements. The bill also outlines the transition process for hearing officers from the Department of Health and Welfare to the office of administrative hearings, effective January 1, 2024, and mandates that the Department submit necessary documentation to facilitate this transition. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to ensure the remaining provisions remain valid if any part is invalidated.

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