House Concurrent Resolution No. 5, introduced by the State Affairs Committee, expresses the opinion of the Idaho Legislature regarding the federal pardon granted to Dr. Anthony Fauci by former President Joe Biden on January 20, 2025. The resolution highlights Dr. Fauci's significant roles in managing the nation's response to COVID-19 and emphasizes that the federal pardon does not inspire confidence in his conduct. It clarifies that while a federal pardon may absolve an individual of federal offenses, it does not extend to state-level crimes or violations under state jurisdiction.
The resolution further asserts that Dr. Fauci has not been charged with any crimes in Idaho and reiterates that the federal pardon does not affect legal procedures, investigations, or potential prosecutions for state crimes. Therefore, the Idaho Legislature concludes that any legal proceedings involving Dr. Fauci should remain subject to state law, reinforcing the principle that a federal pardon does not confer immunity from state prosecution or responsibility for state crimes.