The proposed bill amends Title 74 of the Idaho Code by adding a new Chapter 7, which focuses on transparency in legislative travel. The legislation aims to enhance public confidence in government by requiring legislators, legislators-elect, and candidates for legislative office to report any travel expenses paid by external individuals or entities. Specifically, it mandates that all legislative officials report travel related to legislative or governmental purposes that occurs outside of Idaho, with certain exceptions for travel funded through campaign contributions or personal funds.
Additionally, the bill outlines the reporting requirements for legislative officials, which must be submitted to the secretary of state within thirty days of returning from the travel. The report must include details such as the travel destination, dates, purpose, and the name and address of the entity that covered the expenses. Failure to comply with these reporting requirements will result in a daily late fee of $25 until the report is filed, with the collected fees directed to the public school income fund. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.