The bill amends the Idaho Code to improve public defense services for indigent defendants by redefining the responsibilities of the State Public Defender. Key changes include the requirement for the State Public Defender to ensure the employment of qualified defense attorneys and support staff, as well as the establishment of Idaho-specific standards for indigent defense. The bill mandates the Office of the State Public Defender to submit a budget request that outlines a plan for transitioning to state-owned facilities and evaluates the efficiency of contracted public defense services. It also clarifies that the state will take full financial and legal responsibility for providing indigent public defense, relieving counties of these obligations.

Additionally, the bill removes certain provisions related to public defense commission rules and the transition of public defense services, while introducing new language regarding the provision of counsel for parents or guardians in hearings, which will only be provided if constitutionally required. It establishes that counties must continue to provide office space for the state public defender until July 1, 2029, and outlines reimbursement for related expenses, while counties remain responsible for utility and maintenance costs. The bill further clarifies the rights of indigent individuals to legal representation at all stages of criminal and commitment proceedings, limiting the state public defender's obligation to specific cases and relieving counties from financing indigent defense for actions not specified in the bill. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1-1105, 16-2009, 19-6005, 19-6006, 19-6008, 19-6009