This bill amends Chapter 1, Title 33 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 33-143, which establishes provisions regarding the priority public broadcasting rights for Idaho high school sports events. Under this new section, Idaho public television is granted the right of first refusal to broadcast all athletic competitions sanctioned by the Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA). The bill outlines the conditions under which Idaho public television must notify the IHSAA of its intent to broadcast, and it specifies that if Idaho public television declines or fails to provide proper notice, other broadcasters may apply for the rights to broadcast the event.
Additionally, any revenue generated from these broadcasts is mandated to support educational programming and public broadcasting initiatives in Idaho, with a portion allocated to public high schools or the IHSAA for improving sports facilities and programs. The bill also allows the state board of education, in consultation with the IHSAA, to create rules for effective implementation, including scheduling and content guidelines. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.